State and local officials are set to speak tonight on proposed improvements to U.S. Route 460 and economic development expected from the Port of Virginia’s growth.

The forum will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at Windsor High School, 24 Church St. Delegate Rick Morris, whose district covers a portion of Suffolk, will host the forum.

Other speakers include Secretary of Commerce and Trade Jim Cheng, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Todd Haymore and Assistant Secretary of Transportation Matt Strader.

Also speaking will be local economic development officials from several area localities, including Greg Byrd from Suffolk’s Economic Development Department.

Morris organized the event for residents to learn more about the opportunities the port will generate for the area. Water traffic through the port is expected to increase after the 2014 completion of the Panama Canal expansion.