Newport News’ $40 Million Grissom Library Replacement Is Under Construction

Active construction is underway at the former Sherwood Shopping Center site in Newport News’ Denbigh area, where the city is building a replacement for the Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom Library.

The city’s current project dashboard lists the Grissom Library replacement at 24% overall completion. Its construction activity subphase began May 29, 2026, and the record identifies M.B. Kahn Construction Co. Inc. as the contractor under a $38,648,372 construction contract.

Work has moved beyond demolition

The construction follows the city’s demolition of the former Sherwood Shopping Center. In a March 19 notice, Newport News described the project as an approximately $40 million investment in a new library and the Denbigh area.

The planned replacement facility is expected to measure approximately 51,144 square feet. The city says it is intended to serve residents of all ages with expanded educational resources, modern technology and flexible community gathering spaces.

The Sherwood property covers 5.7 acres and was acquired by the city for the future library. With building work now active, the site has moved from demolition into the main construction phase.

Current schedule extends into 2028

The city dashboard currently lists construction through June 27, 2028, followed by project closeout through August 2, 2028. Those are the city’s current projected dates, not guaranteed completion or opening dates.

The city’s March notice anticipated completion in summer 2028, but the available project records do not independently confirm a public opening date.

What nearby residents should expect

Residents near the former Sherwood site should expect continued construction activity as the replacement library is built. That may include workers, equipment and ongoing site work. The available city project information does not specify particular traffic, noise or access impacts, so those effects should not be assumed.

The approximately $40 million investment figure and the $38,648,372 construction contract are separate amounts reported in the city’s project materials. The contract amount identifies the agreement with M.B. Kahn Construction Co. Inc.; the city’s notice uses the approximately $40 million figure for the overall library investment.

Newport News City Council’s May 12, 2026, meeting materials support the city’s acquisition of the Sherwood parcel for the future Grissom Library. The project’s next major milestone is continued construction toward the city’s projected 2028 construction and closeout dates.

Sources

• City of Newport News Project Status: Virgil I. Grissom Library Replacement
• City notice on Sherwood Shopping Center demolition and the new Grissom Library
• Newport News City Council Regular Meeting Agenda, May 12, 2026