The Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission (MPPDC) is a regional government organization that helps local governments work together to address shared challenges and opportunities.

Established under Virginia’s Planning District Act, the Commission serves as a trusted convener, technical resource and strategic partner for its member localities.

MPPDC serves the counties of Essex, Gloucester, King and Queen, King William, Mathews and Middlesex, along with the Towns of Tappahannock, Urbanna and West Point. By coordinating across jurisdictional lines, the Commission strengthens the region’s resilience, economic vitality and quality of life.

The Commission is guided by a Board of Commissioners representing each member locality and supported by a professional staff with expertise in planning, environmental resilience, transportation, economic development and community advancement.

Graphic of Middle Peninsula map in blue
Dredging for Haven Beach in Mathews County

Who We Are

Serving up fresh oysters after a public tour at Oyster Seed Holdings

Mission

To advance collaborative solutions that strengthen the resilience, prosperity and sustainability of the Middle Peninsula region.
Staff checks on the different types of algae grown to feed baby clams before they are moved out to off shore beds

Vision

A thriving Middle Peninsula where communities are connected, resilient, economically vibrant and prepared for the future.
Dancer Kamilah Turner performs in front of the new TC Walker mural in downtown Gloucester

Values

Collaboration: We believe regional challenges require regional partnerships.

Integrity: We serve with transparency, accountability and professionalism.

Innovation: We pursue forward-thinking solutions grounded in data and community input.

Stewardship: We protect the region’s environmental, cultural, and economic assets for future generations.

History of the PDC

Founded to promote regional collaboration, MPPDC has evolved from a traditional planning agency into a dynamic regional solutions partner. Over the decades, the Commission has helped secure funding, implement infrastructure improvements, protect natural resources, and strengthen the economic foundation of the Middle Peninsula.

Kayaking on the Mattaponi River near Walkerton, Virginia

Board of Commissioners

ESSEX COUNTY

Hon. J. Calvin Haile (elected)
Hon. John Magruder – Vice Chairman (elected)
Mr. Bud Smith (citizen)
Ms. April Rounds (term)


GLOUCESTER COUNTY

Hon. Ashley C. Chriscoe – Chairman (elected)
Hon. Tony Nicosia (elected)
Mr. Chris Renew (citizen)
Mr. George Bains (term) (Interim)


KING AND QUEEN COUNTY

Hon. Mark Berry (elected)
Hon. Marie Norman (elected)
Ms. Vivian Seay (citizen)


KING WILLIAM COUNTY

Hon. Justin Catlett (elected)
Hon. Benjamin Edwards (elected)
Mr. Sam Drewry (citizen)

MATHEWS COUNTY

Hon. Patrick Beattie (elected)
Hon. David Walsh (elected)
Mr. Tim Hill (citizen)


MIDDLESEX COUNTY

Hon. Wayne H. Jessie, Sr. – Treasurer (elected)
Hon. Reggie Williams, Sr. (elected)
Ms. Kendall Webre (citizen)
Mr. Kevin Gentry (term)


TOWN OF TAPPAHANNOCK

Hon. Kay Carlton (elected)
Mr. Steve Wright (term)


TOWN OF URBANNA

Hon. Dr. William T. Goldsmith (elected)


TOWN OF WEST POINT

Hon. James Pruett (elected)