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Suffolk took center stage on Tuesday, May 13, as the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce concluded its 2025 State of the City Series with a sold-out event at the Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront. Mayor Michael D. Duman addressed a packed room of business and civic leaders, highlighting the city’s ongoing growth and development initiatives.

Duman celebrated the city’s many “cool” events and places to visit during this year’s event. Updates on infrastructure projects were also provided, and three new economic development projects were announced.

Automatic Coating Limited is adding more than 21,000 square feet to its current Suffolk Industrial Park facility, a more than $4 million investment. Solenis is also expanding with a new 80,000-square-foot addition, an additional $76 million investment. Lastly, Transnational Foods is moving operations from Chesapeake to a 350,000-square-foot building on Carolina Road.

“These new investments are a testament to the momentum we’re building together,” Duman said. “They show that Suffolk isn’t just open for business, we’re where businesses want to be, and where our community can look forward to even more cool opportunities ahead.”

In a “Ferris Bueller” themed video, Duman takes a day off from mayoral duties and explores many city offerings presented in Suffolk’s award-winning visitor’s guide, such as the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, Sugar Mama’s Bakeshoppe, the new kayak rentals, and Birdsong Theater. 

“Suffolk isn’t cool by accident,” Duman said during his speech. “We’re cool by nature, cool by design, and cool by choice.”

He noted the city’s “vibrant neighborhoods,” and rich agriculture and historical roots. He mentioned the gala dinner commemorating the bicentennial of Marquis de Lafayette’s farewell tour when he stopped in Suffolk.

“Suffolk is truly a place like no other, where vibrant community spirit meets unmatched natural beauty,” he said. “From our scenic waterways and open spaces to our exceptional parks and recreation opportunities, life here is both peaceful and full of possibility.”

A video reflecting on some of the city’s recent events highlighted the Great Suffolk Cleanup. Over 2,000 volunteers collected 71,359 pounds of debris, which made up 56% of the total regional clean-up.

A new arts and creative district called WATCH — welcoming arts, talent, culture, history — downtown is also on the horizon. 

The new John F. Kennedy Middle School set to open in 2026 will have a 94,500 square foot campus, serving up to 800 students. Totaling $75 million, this will be the city’s largest public building project in history. 

Duman went on to say Suffolk is “a city of opportunity,” and “offers a quality of life that’s second to none.”

He encouraged citizens to use the Public Safety Committee’s online portal to submit feedback and ideas about how to make the city safer. He added that overall crime was down 6% last year, and so far this year, it’s down 11%.

A video about Suffolk’s “cool opportunities” provided updates about ongoing transportation construction. 

Route 58’s expansion, from four to six lanes, is nearing completion. On Nansemond Parkway, work on a train flyover on Wilroy Road is progressing, as is the one on Route 58 leading to the regional landfill. Work is also being done to expand Shoulders Hill Road and realign Pitchkettle Road. In the future, the city hopes to widen Godwin Boulevard, Route 17, and Route 460.        

Bridge replacement projects are underway at Nansemond Parkway, Freeman Mill, and Pittmantown Road. The Kings Highway Bridge replacement is in the final preliminary design phase. 

Duman acknowledged the most pressing challenges in the city’s future are the roads and traffic systems.

“Our city continues to experience phenomenal growth, welcoming new businesses, residents, and opportunities at a remarkable pace,” Duman said.

He announced the governor’s budget includes $500,000 to assist with Suffolk’s homeless shelter, which is currently under construction. Once completed, the shelter will have 15 double-occupancy rooms, half of which will be fully accessible to people with disabilities. 

Duman recognized two city employees who will be retiring soon: Robert Lewis, director of public works, and City Manager Al Moor. Combined, they served 68 years with the city. 

“We’ve made great strides this year,” Duman said. “Whether it’s economic development, infrastructure improvements or community engagement. Suffolk is a city on the rise, rooted in history, driven by innovation, and united by a shared love for this place we call home.”