Norfolk Mayor Touts Crime Reduction and Business Investment

Alexander highlights new developments, including a casino and MacArthur Center redevelopment, in State of the City address.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:49pm

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a stately government building in Norfolk, Virginia, with warm sunlight casting long shadows across the facade, conveying a sense of civic pride and optimism.Norfolk's historic City Hall stands as a symbol of the city's enduring resilience and leadership, as Mayor Alexander outlines a vision for continued progress and growth.Norfolk Today

During his annual State of the City address, Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander touted the city's progress in reducing crime rates and attracting new businesses and investments. Alexander highlighted a 30% drop in homicides, an 11% decrease in violent crime, and a 24% drop in nonfatal shootings in 2025. He also announced several new business openings, including a Target, Raising Cane's, and Wasserhund Brewing Co., as well as plans for a $750 million waterfront casino and the redevelopment of the MacArthur Center mall.

Why it matters

Norfolk's efforts to reduce crime and attract new businesses and investments are crucial for the city's continued growth and development. The mayor's address highlights the city's progress in addressing public safety concerns and creating economic opportunities, which are key priorities for many residents and local leaders.

The details

According to the mayor, Norfolk saw significant decreases in various crime categories in 2025, including a 30% drop in homicides, an 11% decrease in violent crime, and a 24% drop in nonfatal shootings. Alexander also announced several new business openings, such as a Target at Wards Corner, Raising Cane's on Monticello Avenue, and Wasserhund Brewing Co. in the Railroad District. Additionally, the mayor discussed plans for a $750 million waterfront casino next to Harbor Park, expected to open in 2027, and the proposed $72 million redevelopment of the MacArthur Center mall into a mixed-use site with hotels, residential units, and retail space.

  • In 2025, Norfolk saw a 30% drop in homicides, from 37 in 2024 to 26.
  • In 2025, instances of violent crime decreased by 11%, from 859 reported crimes in 2024 to 761.
  • In 2025, nonfatal shootings dropped by 24%, from 74 to 56.
  • The $750 million waterfront casino next to Harbor Park is expected to open in the fall of 2027.
  • The city has proposed spending $72 million over the next several years to demolish MacArthur Center and redevelop the mall into a mixed-use site.

The players

Kenny Alexander

The mayor of Norfolk, Virginia, who delivered the State of the City address highlighting the city's progress in reducing crime and attracting new business investments.

Norfolk

A city in Virginia with a history dating back to the American Revolutionary War, which is now focused on reducing crime and driving economic development.

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What they’re saying

“'Our story of leadership is not new.'”

— Kenny Alexander, Mayor of Norfolk

“'Let's go, Norfolk!'”

— Kenny Alexander, Mayor of Norfolk

What’s next

The city will continue to monitor crime rates and work to further reduce instances of violence. Additionally, the proposed redevelopment of the MacArthur Center mall and the opening of the waterfront casino are expected to be major milestones in Norfolk's ongoing economic development efforts.

The takeaway

Norfolk's efforts to address public safety concerns and attract new businesses and investments are crucial for the city's continued growth and development. The mayor's address highlights the progress the city has made, but also underscores the importance of sustained focus on these priorities to ensure Norfolk's long-term prosperity.