City of Hampton, VA

The City of Hampton, Virginia, is an independent city located in the southeastern region of the state. Established in 1610, it is one of the oldest continuously occupied English settlements in the United States.

As of the 2020 census, Hampton has a population of 137,148 residents, making it the seventh-most populous city in Virginia.

Location and Metropolitan Area

Hampton is part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, which includes neighboring cities such as:

• Chesapeake, VA, USA
• Newport News, VA, USA
• Norfolk
• Portsmouth
• Suffolk

This region, often referred to as "America's First Region," has a combined population of approximately 1.8 million people.

Geography

The city covers a total area of 136 square miles, with 51 square miles of land and 85 square miles of water. Water accounts for 62.3% of its total area.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Hampton's rich history is evident in its numerous historic sites and museums, including the Hampton History Museum, the Casemate Museum, and the Charles Taylor Visual Arts Center.

The city also hosts the Virginia Air & Space Center, which showcases the region's contributions to aviation and space exploration.

Education

Hampton is home to Hampton University, a historically Black university, and Virginia Peninsula Community College.

The city's public education system, Hampton City Schools, includes:

• Four high schools
• Eighteen elementary schools
• Several middle schools

Economy and Military Presence

Hampton's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from the military, aerospace, and tourism sectors.

The city is home to Langley Air Force Base, the nation's first military installation dedicated solely to air power.

It also features the Hampton Roads Convention Center, which hosts various events and conferences throughout the year.

City Services and Community Development

The city operates several departments to serve its residents, including the Hampton Public Library, which has recently introduced a new catalog system to enhance accessibility and convenience for patrons.

Hampton demonstrates a commitment to community development through initiatives such as:

• A new housing program aimed at improving residential design in five neighborhoods
• The Hampton Community Assistance Response (CARES) Team, specialized in responding to non-violent behavioral or mental health crisis calls

Annual Events

Hampton hosts several annual events celebrating its cultural heritage and community spirit, including the Hampton Jazz Festival and the Hampton Bay Days Festival.

Summary

In summary, the City of Hampton, Virginia, offers a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and modern amenities. It remains a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.