From the few dozens of settlers at Jamestown 400 years ago, the greater Hampton Roads Area has become home to more than one million people. The waters of the James River and the Chesapeake Bay continually knit together the Peninsula Communities - with our Southside neighbors of the Virginia Waterfront. Our communities are united in developing industries, improving schools and encouraging local, regional and national arts and culture. Whether you are a newcomer or already a resident, you are part of a vibrant area, rich in heritage and full of goals to be the best. “Quality of life” is almost a creed for the Hampton Roads Communities. Our cities and counties use vision and planned growth to develop and improve the business, educational, home and cultural aspects of the area.