Military Housing in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach has a significant connection to the United States military, and this relationship is reflected in the substantial presence of military housing within the city. This housing serves active-duty personnel and their families stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, and other related facilities. The availability and types of military housing in Virginia Beach have evolved alongside changes in military needs and demographics.
History
The establishment of military installations in the Virginia Beach area began in earnest in the early 20th century, initially with Fort Story. This necessitated the provision of housing for soldiers and their families, although early accommodations were often temporary or basic in nature. As Naval Air Station Oceana was commissioned in 1947, the demand for more permanent and substantial housing increased dramatically. The post-World War II era saw the construction of numerous housing units specifically designed for military personnel, often clustered near the base itself. [1]
Over the decades, the approach to military housing shifted. Initially, the military directly owned and managed most of the housing stock. However, in the 1990s and 2000s, the Department of Defense began to privatize military housing through programs like the Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI). This involved leasing land to private companies who then built, managed, and maintained the housing, with the goal of improving the quality of life for service members and their families, and reducing the burden on the military’s resources. This transition brought about significant changes in the types of housing available and the services offered. [2]
Geography
Military housing in Virginia Beach is not concentrated in a single area, but rather distributed across several neighborhoods in proximity to the various military installations. A significant portion is located near Naval Air Station Oceana in the southern part of the city, including areas like Oceana Estates and Greenbrier East. These locations provide convenient access to the base for personnel assigned there. Other housing options are found near Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, primarily in the North End and along the Chesapeake Bay. [3]
The geographical distribution of military housing also reflects the varied terrain of Virginia Beach. Some housing is situated in more densely populated urban areas, while other developments are located in more suburban or rural settings. Proximity to schools, shopping centers, and recreational facilities are key considerations in the placement of military housing, aiming to provide a comprehensive living environment for military families. The coastal location also means some housing is susceptible to weather-related events, such as hurricanes and flooding, which necessitates ongoing maintenance and preparedness efforts. [4]
Economy
The presence of military housing has a substantial impact on the local economy of Virginia Beach. The construction and maintenance of these housing units create jobs in the building trades, property management, and related industries. The families residing in military housing contribute to the local retail sector, schools, and service industries. The privatization of military housing has also brought economic benefits, as private companies invest in the development and upkeep of the properties. [5]
Furthermore, the military population contributes significantly to the tax base of the city. While some military personnel are exempt from local taxes, the overall economic activity generated by the military presence helps to fund local services and infrastructure. The demand for housing, both on and off base, also influences the overall real estate market in Virginia Beach, affecting property values and rental rates. The consistent presence of military families provides a degree of stability to the local economy, even during periods of economic downturn. [6]
Neighborhoods
Several neighborhoods in Virginia Beach are particularly known for their high concentration of military housing. Greenbrier East, adjacent to Naval Air Station Oceana, is a prime example, offering a range of housing options from single-family homes to townhouses. Oceana Estates is another neighborhood specifically designed to accommodate military families, providing a community atmosphere with amenities tailored to their needs. These neighborhoods often feature well-maintained landscaping, community centers, and recreational facilities. [7]
In the North End, near Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, neighborhoods like Bay Colony and Shadowlawn also have a significant military presence. These areas offer a mix of housing types, including waterfront properties and more affordable options. The neighborhoods surrounding the bases are often characterized by a strong sense of community, with frequent events and activities geared towards military families. The City of Virginia Beach actively works with military officials and private housing providers to ensure that these neighborhoods remain attractive and supportive environments for service members and their families. [8]
Attractions
While military housing primarily serves the needs of service members and their families, its proximity to Virginia Beach’s numerous attractions enhances the quality of life for residents. The city’s renowned oceanfront, with its boardwalk, beaches, and entertainment venues, is easily accessible from many military housing locations. This provides opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and social activities. Similarly, the various parks, museums, and cultural attractions throughout Virginia Beach are within convenient reach. [9]
Furthermore, the military installations themselves sometimes host events that are open to the public, such as air shows at Naval Air Station Oceana. These events draw large crowds and contribute to the local tourism industry. The presence of a large military population also supports a variety of businesses that cater specifically to their needs, such as military discount retailers and specialized service providers. The combination of convenient access to attractions and a supportive community environment makes Virginia Beach an appealing location for military families. [10]