Kaine Tours Craney Island, Headlines Hampton Roads Chamber Of Commerce Forum

HAMPTON ROADS, VA – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine capped his two-week tour of the Commonwealth in Hampton Roads.

In the morning, Kaine toured the Craney Island dredge fill facility to learn about its current operations, oyster restoration efforts, plans for expansion, and the construction of a new marine terminal on the site that, when complete, will dramatically bolster the container capacity and economic competitiveness of the Port of Virginia.

“Expanding Craney Island will be a huge boost to the Virginia economy and the national economy. Because of natural features – a sand bottom and no significant overhead bridges - we can dredge to widths and depths in this channel that no one else can on the East Coast," said Kaine. "It is really important that a significant portion of the investment be on the federal shoulder because the dredging not only serves the commercial interest of the nation but also serves the military interest of the nation. Coming and seeing Craney Island in person with my staff today will enable me to be a better advocate.”

Later, Kaine joined U.S. Senator Mark Warner to headline the first annual Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Senatorial Forum.

"The most precious resource in the world isn't oil or water, it's talent," Kaine said to business leaders at the forum. "Growing a talented workforce through pre-k, strong education and job training, and immigration reform is key to strengthening the economy and remaining globally competitive."

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