Hanover staff submits Opportunity Zone survey for Ashland-adjacent area

HANOVER COUNTY, Va. — Hanover County Economic Development staff has submitted a proposal seeking Opportunity Zone designation for an area that includes the northern part of the Town of Ashland and adjoining portions of Hanover County, staff said at the Authority's Aug. 12 meeting.

"The Federal government will be issuing Opportunity Zone designations in 2028," Secretary Brandon Turner reminded members, and staff submitted a survey to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership on July 26, 2026 to seek state support. Turner said Economic Development followed up by mailing letters of support to the Governor, the Secretary of Commerce and the heads of DHCD and VEDP.

Turner described the area under consideration as encompassing northern Ashland and adjacent Hanover County parcels. The transcript did not include the survey text or maps; staff follow-up will be needed to confirm exact boundaries and any targeted projects.