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Daily Press Building to Become Mixed-Use Development

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/04/09 .. ss-building-to-become-mixed-use-development.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, April 9th 2026 at 14:46 GMT by The Virginian-Pilot
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Newport News, VA - April 9, 2026 - What was once the bustling heart of local journalism in Newport News, the former Daily Press building, is on the cusp of a dramatic rebirth. A joint venture between Harvey Lindsay and W.J. Gaines is leading the charge in transforming the iconic structure into a dynamic mixed-use development, promising to inject new life into the city's downtown and address critical needs for modern urban living. The ambitious project, now well into its planning stages with construction slated to begin in late 2026, is garnering significant attention and enthusiastic support from city officials and residents alike.

For decades, the Daily Press served as the primary source of news and information for the Peninsula, chronicling the community's triumphs and challenges. Its physical location became synonymous with local reporting, a landmark recognized by generations of Newport News residents. However, with the shift towards digital media consumption and the consolidation of news organizations, the building ultimately became vacant, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for the city.

The vision of Lindsay and Gaines transcends a simple real estate transaction. Their proposal centers around creating a vibrant, multi-faceted space that honors the building's legacy while simultaneously providing much-needed housing, retail options, and public green space. The development will feature approximately 150 apartment units, catering to a range of demographics from young professionals and empty-nesters to families. Approximately 20,000 square feet will be dedicated to retail, with developers actively courting local businesses and artisanal shops to foster a unique and authentic atmosphere.

Crucially, the plans include the creation of a publicly accessible park - tentatively named "Press Plaza" - that will serve as a gathering place for community events, outdoor dining, and simple relaxation. This park space is intended to become a central focal point of the revitalized downtown, promoting pedestrian traffic and fostering a stronger sense of community. The architectural design emphasizes the preservation of the building's historic facade, integrating it seamlessly with the modern additions. Original architectural features will be restored and highlighted, serving as a constant reminder of the building's journalistic past.

"We are incredibly excited about this project," explains Harvey Lindsay. "It's not about erasing history; it's about building upon it. The Daily Press was a cornerstone of this community, and we want to ensure that its spirit of informing and connecting people lives on in this new space. We envision a place where people can live, work, play, and connect with one another."

The project's significance extends far beyond aesthetics and amenities. City officials view it as a catalyst for broader downtown revitalization efforts that have been underway for several years. Newport News has been actively working to attract investment, improve infrastructure, and create a more vibrant and walkable downtown core. This development aligns perfectly with those goals, potentially sparking a ripple effect of further investment in the surrounding blocks. Economic impact studies project that the project will create hundreds of temporary construction jobs, as well as numerous permanent positions within the retail and service sectors.

Furthermore, the addition of 150 apartments is expected to alleviate some of the housing shortage currently impacting the city. The project also incorporates sustainable design principles, including energy-efficient appliances, water conservation measures, and the use of locally sourced materials. Developers are also exploring the possibility of incorporating renewable energy sources into the building's infrastructure.

W.J. Gaines added, "We've been working closely with city planners and community stakeholders to ensure that this development meets the needs of Newport News residents. We're not just building a building; we're building a community."

The redevelopment of the former Daily Press building represents a significant investment in Newport News's future. By thoughtfully blending history, innovation, and community engagement, Lindsay and Gaines are poised to transform a vacant landmark into a thriving hub that will enrich the lives of residents for generations to come. The project is a testament to the power of adaptive reuse and a shining example of how cities can preserve their heritage while embracing a bright and vibrant future.