Hampton, Virginia, has been named an All-America City for the fifth time. The announcement was made at a ceremony in Denver by the National Civic League, which selected Hampton as one of ten cities in the United States to receive this honor. Previously, Hampton earned this designation in 1972, 2002, 2014, and 2023.
Mayor Jimmy Gray expressed his pride in the team that contributed to the application and presentation process. “I’m so proud of this team that worked so hard, and everyone who put together the application and helped coordinate the presentation,” he said. “We have a lot of staff and a lot of residents who have supported us in getting here, and this is for all of them. We are very proud of the dedication that has made us a five-time All-America City.”
The National Civic League has been awarding this title for 76 years to highlight civic engagement and community resilience. This year’s focus was on how community engagement can advance environmental sustainability and resilience.
Hampton’s submission led it to become one of 20 finalists. A delegation from Hampton traveled to Denver to present their efforts in addressing sea level rise challenges as part of their final presentation. The group included Mayor Gray, City Manager Mary Bunting, community leaders, educators, and students.
City Manager Bunting remarked on the significance of the award: “The All-America City award is given to communities, not for being ‘perfect’ cities but instead for being localities that demonstrate a genuine commitment to citizen engagement, collaboration and co-creation.” She added that Hampton leads in these practices.
Judges recognized Hampton’s initiatives such as the Hampton Clean City Commission and Phoebus Living Shoreline project for their impact on sustainability efforts. They also noted actions taken in Aberdeen Gardens to protect homes and heritage through resident-informed plans.
Celebratory events are planned for upcoming months to honor this achievement within Hampton.
Other winners included Kinston, Carrboro, Jacksonville (North Carolina), Seattle (Washington), Akron (Ohio), Chelsea (Massachusetts), Memphis (Tennessee), Tallahassee (Florida), and Port St. Lucie (Florida).
