A series of four public meetings last week attracted more than 40 participants to discuss the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) program for the Middle Peninsula.

Harrison Bresee, regional economic planner for the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission, said that the meetings attracted some representatives from the business community as well as residents.

The first meeting, held Oct. 1 at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Gloucester Point, attracted only four people, Bresee said, with all having some business connections. Those participants were interested in sewer and water, broadband and workforce development, he said.

On Oct. 2, the meeting in Essex drew about 30 people, most interested in a Main Street enhancement project for Tappahannock. On Oct. 3, eight people attended a meeting in Saluda, with interest in workforce development working with public schools. A fourth meeting was held on Oct. 4 in King William County...