Decorative paper pattern
Make a
difference!

ROC THE BLOCK

Reclaiming Our Community One Block at a Time

Illustration of a city block
Welcome to ROC the Block, Portsmouth’s new initiative to Reclaim Our Community for residents across the city. Community and quality of life start with safe, attractive and inviting neighborhoods. Places where families of all races and backgrounds can live and thrive together. That’s what Roc the Block is striving, pushing and advocating for in ways large and small. Join us!

Message from the
City Manager

City Manager Steven Carter

Thank you for visiting our ROC the Block resources page. Please use these resources and join us in these efforts to improve our neighborhoods and the lives of everyone who calls them home. ROC the Block isn’t just one single event or idea. It’s a long-term commitment to do everything possible to make our neighborhoods safe, attractive, and prosperous. That includes volunteer beautification events, assistance and encouragement in finding good, living-wage jobs and careers, and anything else, large or small, that will help our neighborhoods thrive. Let’s Reclaim Our Community together!

Steven Carter

Portsmouth City Manager

What We Do

At ROC the Block, our mission is to enhance the quality of life in our neighborhoods by addressing key issues and improving the community's appearance and safety. Our dedicated teams will be tackling the following tasks –

Stormwater

  • Inspect and clean storm water drains to ensure proper drainage.
  • Identify and eliminate standing water that can breed mosquitoes, protecting the community from health hazards.

Street Signs

  • Inspect street signs for visibility and repair any damages.
  • Remove branches or other obstructions that block signage to ensure clear and safe navigation for drivers and pedestrians.

Potholes

  • Repair potholes in the streets to improve driving conditions and prevent vehicle damage.

Streetlights

  • Report non-working or broken streetlights to Dominion Energy for prompt repair, enhancing neighborhood safety.

Code Concerns

  • Inspect both city and private properties to ensure they comply with local codes and are well maintained.
  • Address any violations to keep our neighborhoods clean and orderly.

Trash

  • Remove bulk trash piles and litter from the streets, ensuring a clean and inviting environment for all residents.

Get Involved!

We invite you to join us in improving our community, one block at a time! Share your concerns, report issues and volunteer your time to help us ROC the Block. Together, we can create healthier, safer and more vibrant neighborhoods for everyone and make Portsmouth a better place to live, work and play.

Let's reclaim
our community!

Upcoming Events

Making a difference takes energy and teamwork.
Please join in when you can!

Cradock Portsmouth, VA
Tuesday, November 12, 2024
9:00am - 3:00pm
Port Norfolk Portsmouth, VA
Sunday, January 14, 2024
9:00am - 3:00pm
Cavalier Manor Portsmouth, VA
Tuesday, March 18, 2025
9:00am - 3:00pm
Merrifield Portsmouth, VA
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
9:00am - 3:00pm

Past Events

Connect with us to stay updated with ROC the Block and all things Portsmouth!

Truxtun<br>September 18, 2024

Truxtun
September 18, 2024

Prentis Park<br>July 24, 2024

Prentis Park
July 24, 2024

Community Survey

Your input and ideas are wanted and needed. This Community Survey is a great place to start.

Take The Survey

Portsmouth@Work

From a first job to a career change, we’re here to help Portsmouth residents prepare for and connect with the best opportunities around.

Let’s Get to Work!

City Careers

The City of Portsmouth offers jobs and careers with good pay and benefits. Take a look at the jobs that are open right now!

See available jobs

Resources for Residents

Making a difference takes energy and teamwork. Please join in when you can!