Why commuters are drawn to Providence Forge
Providence Forge is one of the fastest-growing communities in New Kent County, thanks to its location right between Williamsburg and Richmond. The area is popular with commuters who want an outdoorsy lifestyle, whether that means hiking through a state forest or boating along the Chickahominy River. Newer subdivisions are also part of the draw, with homes that sit on big pieces of land or back up to an 18-hole golf course. Even with all this wide-open space, Providence Forge is home to one of the county’s main commercial hubs, giving it a nice balance of rural and suburban living.
Ongoing housing developments in Providence Forge
Providence Forge has some older ranch-style homes and cottages, but it's the newer construction that attracts most buyers. “There was a big surge of development that started in the 2010s, and it’s still happening today,” says Lisa Langenhennig, an associate broker with Coldwell Banker Traditions who lives in Lanexa, the neighboring community. Subdivisions that are still under development include:
- Hula Farm, which has modern farmhouses on lots ranging from 2 to 15 acres
- Brickshire, a master-planned community with New Traditional homes surrounding a neighborhood golf course
- Shirley Commons, where you can custom-build a home on lots over 2 acres
- Oakmont Villas and Oakmont Townhomes, located near the Royal New Kent Golf Club
What houses cost
The median sale price in Providence Forge is around $500,000, which is higher than what you’ll find in Williamsburg or Richmond. Smaller homes, townhouses and villas typically cost between the lower $100,000s and the lower $500,000s, while larger houses with significant acreage usually range from the mid-$500,000s to the upper $900,000s.
The commute to Williamsburg and Richmond
Driving to Williamsburg or Richmond typically takes about 30 minutes via U.S. Route 60 or Interstate 64, though it can take longer during rush hour. “New Kent County isn’t a big employment hub, so most people are getting on those highways to drive into the city for work, which can make them a little congested,” Langenhennig says.
Where kids go to school
New Kent County Public Schools serves Providence Forge. Kids can go to George W. Watkins Elementary School, New Kent Middle School and New Kent High School. The high school offers Career & Technical Education courses in fields like marketing, agriculture and culinary arts.
Hiking, boating and horse racing nearby
Both golf courses in Providence Forge have public tee times, and there’s plenty more to do around the area. Crawford State Forest stretches along the west side of the community, with hiking trails winding under pine and hardwood trees. Just a few miles south, marinas and boat launches line the Chickahominy River, so you can easily spend the day swimming or trying to catch largemouth bass. For some entertainment, head to Rosie’s to play the slot machines or watch horses race at the Colonial Downs track.
Shopping and dining in Providence Forge
Providence Forge has the essentials covered, with a Food Lion, a Walgreens and an Ace Hardware. “It may not seem like a ton of places to shop, but it’s a lot for this county,” Langenhennig says. “I actually go to Providence Forge for most of my errands, and so do people from other nearby towns like New Kent.” There’s also a handful of locally owned restaurants, including:
- Brother’s Italian Restaurant, a go-to for pizza and classic pasta dishes
- Don Miguel, known for its frozen margaritas and fajitas
- Patsy’s, a cozy spot serving hearty breakfast plates and comfort food for dinner
- Old School Cider House, where you can grab a drink, snack on a big pretzel and catch live music on the outdoor stage
