City officials in Hampton held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of the permanent Shoreline Operations Station (SOS) at Buckroe Beach. The event, which took place on September 3, 2025, was attended by Mayor Jimmy Gray, City Manager Mary Bunting, and other local leaders.
The SOS began as a pilot project for the 2025 beach season and was developed by the Hampton Police Division in partnership with the Hopeful Hampton collaborative. Since opening on Memorial Day, the station has been active throughout the summer.
Assistant Police Chief Jason Price reported that from Memorial Day through Labor Day, officers at the station interacted with over 2,000 beach visitors. The staff provided safety information, first aid services, and helped reunite lost children with their parents.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Anton Bell stated: “Twenty-three hundred visitors came, and they were greeted and they were served. We put a priority on this building. Public safety, and just as important the perception of public safety, is a priority in this city.”
The new facility offers a consistent location for beachgoers to engage with police officers for minor first aid or hydration needs and to report concerns. Assistant Chief Price also mentioned that several guests expressed interest in career opportunities within the Hampton Police Division. He noted that having an established post serves as a deterrent to potential disruptions of public safety.
Mayor Gray acknowledged those who contributed to establishing the SOS and highlighted ongoing efforts to gather feedback from teens about improvements they would like at Buckroe Beach. The survey initiative will be extended into high schools later this year.
Located between the playground and main performing stage at Buckroe Beach, the SOS will now operate on weekends from 4 p.m. until sunset following the conclusion of the summer season.
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