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Hampton Roads is the name for the southeastern region of Virginia.
The region's most notable geographic characteristic is proximity to
a variety of waterways. Bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean,
Hampton Roads is where the James, Nanesmond and Elizabeth rivers
pour into the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. “Hampton Roads” is a
nautical term meaning “protected anchorage” or “a safe harbor.” With
the world's largest natural harbor, Hampton Roads' ports have played
an important role in the region's history and economy.
Hampton Roads is ranked the 31st largest Metropolitan Statistical
Area (MSA) in the United States. Recently recognized by a University
of Wisconsin study as the nation's most diverse region, the region
is home to 1.6 million people and includes the cities of Chesapeake,
Franklin, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth,
Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg; and the counties of
Gloucester, Isle of Wight, James City, Mathews, Southampton, Surry
and York; and Currituck in North Carolina.
Hampton Roads is the birthplace of Colonial America. It is home to
Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement, and to Colonial
Williamsburg. Its rich history, thriving maritime industry, and
beautiful waterfront landscapes merge with livable communities,
modern technology, economic prosperity, and a strong military
presence to create a unique and welcoming place in which to live and
do business.
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