Suffolk Deputy City Manager Gerry Jones announced that the city is moving forward with a $1.9 million renovation of the historic Phoenix Bank of Nansemond. Built in 1921 to serve the city’s Black community when white‑owned banks denied them access to credit, the building has stood vacant for years but remains a symbol of resilience.
Restoration milestones
The first phase of the project is complete. Crews have stabilized the structure, repaired deteriorated brickwork, and reconstructed the original storefront, preserving the architectural character that has defined the block for a century.
“We want to find a use that benefits the community while preserving the building’s history for the next generation,” Jones said. The city plans to seek public input on how the interior will be configured to meet local needs, emphasizing a space for community meetings, events, and educational programs.
New plaza and public amenities
Beyond the building itself, the city is developing a new plaza on the lot east of the bank. The plaza will feature a sitting area, historic marker, and parking, creating a gathering place for residents. Sidewalk improvements along the entire block are also part of the plan, enhancing walkability and safety.
Jones highlighted that the project reflects Suffolk’s broader commitment to preserving its cultural landmarks while providing functional spaces for families and faith‑based groups.
Historical significance
When segregation barred Black entrepreneurs and farmers from traditional banking, the Phoenix Bank of Nansemond offered a vital alternative. Over the decades, the building has housed various businesses, including a Chinese restaurant, before the city purchased it in 2001.
Today, the renovation serves as a reminder of the city’s diverse heritage and a tangible example of how local government can honor that past while investing in the future.
Community involvement
The city will hold public forums later this year to gather ideas from residents, churches, and local organizations about the building’s interior layout and programming. Officials hope the revived space will become a hub for civic engagement, faith gatherings, and family activities.
“Preserving this landmark and giving it new life is about more than bricks and mortar; it’s about strengthening the fabric of our community,” Jones said.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
