Editorial: New Kent, you’re definitely on the map now

With the population boom in New Kent continuously rising, there has been dialogue among citizens concerning if the area will become another small suburb, similar to adjacent counties. And while some citizens do not want to see that occur, it’s happening.

The Bottoms Bridge and Quinton area is the current craze of growth in central Virginia. With a new elementary school on the way along with a planned medical center, the amenities for New Kent citizens are on the rise, and that’s a good thing. With those amenities, comes people and additional services. Those businesses will bring in tax money, reducing the burden on citizens.

However, New Kent leaders have been mindful about New Kent transforming into a true metropolitan area. Some current citizens are pushing for the area to maintain the historical culture and value, having the county remain a peaceful place to live and play without the hustle and bustle. Businesses have been specifically contained to certain areas of the county for that purpose.

But now that Bottoms Bridge has become a center point for business establishments, what about the other parts of New Kent. The next two areas are well underway with Talleysville and Providence Forge. Talleysville is seeing businesses clamor around the 211 exit, with gas stations along with a new fire station being constructed. At the 214 exit in Providence Forge, the reopening of Colonial Downs will more than likely be an economic boom for that area.

Now the most difficult of the issues that New Kent’s government is looking at is how to handle business in the Barhamsville area, specifically the 220 exit. There is plenty of land and a major highway passing through that section. The issues now become finding an occupant who want to build in that area. Being a prime location just off Interstate 64, citizens of Barhamsville and the eastern portion of New Kent may get their wish soon.

There will always be debate about the amount of businesses in New Kent and if there is too many of them. But those businesses relieve taxpayers, so the county has to balance a county that’s great for living and raising a family with a county looking to be self-sufficient. The next question is, how much are citizens willing to sacrifice in order to continue to see New Kent grow.

Those are questions for the future to answer. Just know that New Kent, you’re definitely on the map now.