Seal of the Governor
For Immediate Release: September 27, 2023
Contacts: Office of the Governor: Christian Martinez, Christian.Martinez@governor.virginia.gov

Governor Glenn Youngkin Celebrates the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg

Governor Glenn Youngkin delivers remarks at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

RICHMOND, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin today celebrated the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative which featured testimonials from Petersburg residents who highlighted key accomplishments across the six pillars of the partnership. The Partnership for Petersburg was launched on August 22, 2022, with state, local, community, and faith leaders who have come together in this initiative and with support from the Commonwealth to transform Petersburg into one of the best cities to live, work, and raise a family. 

 “Over the year, the Commonwealth has seen a significant shift in the City of Petersburg, transforming communities and bettering the lives of many,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Working with state government, city government, and the private sector, our teams are working hard to bring comprehensive solutions to the problems that have been putting Petersburg behind. I am proud to support the people of Petersburg and look forward to celebrating the next year of opportunity and success.”  

“The Petersburg community holds a special place in the hearts of Virginians,” said First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin. “We are grateful for the caring and strong leadership of our partners and the commitment demonstrated by the people of Petersburg to help their beautiful city flourish.” 

“True transformation only happens when there is genuine trust and cooperation among stakeholders. We must continue the good work started here in Petersburg for the sake of the children, so that they can have a hope and a future,” said Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears. 

"It is an honor to serve the residents of Petersburg and help make their community safer. Our team at the Office of Attorney General is dedicated to reducing violent crime in this city by utilizing innovative strategies to prevent and prosecute criminal activity. We are dedicated to tackling the serious problems preventing Petersburg from reaching its full potential, and I'm so proud of the progress made in just one year," said Attorney General Jason Miyares. 

“Over the past year, Petersburg has seen remarkable progress under the Partnership for Petersburg initiative,” said Petersburg Mayor Sam Parham. “Our gratitude extends to Governor Youngkin and his team, the General Assembly, and the Commonwealth for their significant contributions. There are initiatives underway that are changing lives and other programs that will transform lives, though the impact may not be immediately visible. Addressing six decades of major challenges won't be a quick process. However, with the Partnership support from the Governor, Petersburg is charting its path toward a future filled with positive changes for upcoming generations. This journey and its associated challenges will necessitate sustained bipartisan support from our elected leaders. As Petersburg thrives, it provides a model for other localities in Virginia and across the nation to follow for their own transformative programs, using our city's blueprint as a guide.” 

“The Partnership for Petersburg has been a catalyst for economic success, transforming our region into a thriving hub of opportunity. It fills me with immense pride to witness the positive impact it has had on our community, revitalizing businesses, creating jobs, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. Together, we have unlocked a brighter future for Petersburg, and the Partnership stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication,” said Delegate Kim Taylor.  

Princess Ajayi-Odukoya delivers remarks at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Governor Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin speak with attendees at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Governor Glenn Youngkin delivers remarks at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Mayor Samuel Parham delivers remarks at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Governor Glenn Youngkin speaks with attendees at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Governor Glenn Youngkin delivers remarks at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Keelyn Graves delivers remarks at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Mayor Samuel Parham delivers remarks at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Governor Glenn Youngkin celebrates the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Mayor Samuel Parham shakes hands with Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears at the One-Year Partnership for Petersburg initiative at the Petersburg Public Library on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Official Photo by Christian Martinez, Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin.

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