The Ultimate PCS Guide to Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia

I. Introduction & Area Overview

Introduction Welcome to Fort Gregg-Adams (formerly Fort Lee), the "Home of Sustainment." As the headquarters for the U.S. Army's Combined Arms Support Command (CASCOM), this is a vital TRADOC (Training and Doctrine Command) installation where the Army's entire logistics force—soldiers of the Quartermaster, Ordnance, and Transportation corps—are trained and educated. The post has a professional, academic atmosphere and is also home to key defense agencies like the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA). Your assignment here places you in a region steeped in American history, from the Revolutionary War to the final campaigns of the Civil War.

Location & Climate Fort Gregg-Adams is located in central Virginia's "Tri-Cities" area, which includes the cities of Petersburg, Colonial Heights, and Hopewell. It is about 25 miles south of Richmond, the state capital. This central location offers fantastic access to major East Coast destinations, with Washington D.C. 2.5 hours to the north and Virginia Beach 1.5-2 hours to the east. You will experience four distinct seasons:

• Summers: Hot and humid, with temperatures regularly in the 90s (∘F).
• Winters: Generally mild and cool, with occasional light snow or ice storms.
• Spring & Fall: Long, beautiful, and pleasant, with stunning fall foliage.

Local Vibe & Culture The Tri-Cities area is a blend of historic small-city charm and modern suburban convenience. The communities are very accustomed to and supportive of the military. The culture is a mix of classic Southern and a deep appreciation for the region's pivotal role in American history. A significant benefit of this duty station is the affordable cost of living, which is noticeably lower than the national average and dramatically lower than its counterpart in Northern Virginia, Fort Belvoir.

II. On-Post Housing & Amenities

On-Post Housing

• Provider: On-post housing is privatized and managed by Fort Gregg-Adams Family Homes (Lendlease).
• Reputation & Condition: The on-post housing inventory is a mix of new, renovated, and older legacy homes, including some beautiful historic quarters. Overall, on-post living is a popular choice for its convenience to the schools, training centers, and post amenities.
• Waitlist Times: During the summer, when there is a large turnover of students for the logistics schools, waitlists for the most desirable neighborhoods can be long.

Amenities & Services

• Commissary & Exchange: Fort Gregg-Adams has a very large, modern Commissary and a main Post Exchange to serve the community.
• Healthcare: Kenner Army Health Clinic provides comprehensive on-post outpatient and primary care.
• MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation): MWR facilities are excellent for a TRADOC post. The Cardinal Golf Club features two 18-hole courses, and there are numerous fitness centers, pools, and recreational programs.
• Museums: The post is home to two fantastic and unique museums: the U.S. Army Quartermaster Museum and the U.S. Army Women's Museum.

III. Local Housing Market & Popular Neighborhoods (Off-Base)

Housing Market Overview The local housing market is very affordable. Your BAH will provide a comfortable standard of living, whether you choose to rent or buy. A typical 3-bedroom rental will range from $1,500 to $2,200. The suburbs in Chesterfield County are the most popular, but also the most expensive, option.

Popular Neighborhoods for Military Families

1. Chester / Chesterfield County:
   • Character: Located north of post toward Richmond, this is the most popular choice for families. It's a large, thriving suburban area with the region's most highly-rated schools, newer housing, and extensive shopping and dining.
   • Commute: 25-45 minutes.
   • Price Point: High (for the region).
2. Prince George County:
   • Character: The county where the installation is located. It offers a more rural and quiet lifestyle with larger lots and a very convenient commute.
   • Commute: 10-25 minutes.
   • Price Point: Low to Moderate.
3. Colonial Heights:
   • Character: A classic American suburb just north of the post. It is the primary retail hub for the Tri-Cities area (Southpark Mall) and offers great convenience.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes.
   • Price Point: Moderate.
4. Petersburg:
   • Character: A city rich with Civil War history located adjacent to post. While it faces challenges, it's undergoing revitalization and offers some beautiful, historic, and very affordable homes in its Old Towne district.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes.
   • Price Point: Low.

IV. Schools & Childcare

On-Post Schools Fort Gregg-Adams does not have DoDEA schools. Children living on post attend schools in Prince George County Public Schools. For convenience, the district operates an elementary and a middle school on the installation.

Off-Post Schools

• Primary Districts: The main school districts are Prince George County Public Schools, Colonial Heights Public Schools, and the large and very highly-regarded Chesterfield County Public Schools. The excellent reputation of Chesterfield schools is the primary reason many families accept a longer commute.
• School Ratings: Data can be found on the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website.

Childcare

• On-Post: Multiple CDCs are available, but with the large student and permanent party population, waitlists are long. Register immediately at MilitaryChildCare.com.
• Off-Base: Childcare options are plentiful and affordable in the surrounding communities.

V. Things to Do, Pro-Tips & Weekend Trips

Local Must-Dos

1. Explore Petersburg National Battlefield: Immerse yourself in the history of the Civil War's longest siege at this massive and well-preserved National Park right next door.
2. Visit the Post Museums: Don't miss the U.S. Army Quartermaster Museum (with General Patton's jeep) and the inspiring U.S. Army Women's Museum.
3. Day Trip to Richmond: Explore Virginia's capital. Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (free admission), stroll along the Canal Walk, and check out the vibrant brewery and restaurant scene.
4. Go to Colonial Williamsburg: Drive an hour east to the "Historic Triangle" (Williamsburg, Jamestown, Yorktown) and step back into the 18th century.
5. Pamplin Historical Park: Recognized as one of America's best history-focused attractions, this park offers an incredible, immersive look at the life of a Civil War soldier.

Insider Info & Pro-Tips

• You Live in a History Book: The entire region is a historical treasure trove. Take advantage of your proximity to some of the most important sites in American history.
• I-95 Traffic: The traffic on I-95, especially north of Richmond toward D.C., is notoriously bad. Plan weekend trips north accordingly.
• The Chesterfield Commute: If you choose to live in Chesterfield for the schools and amenities, be aware that the commute on I-95, I-295, or Route 1 can get congested during peak times.
• TRADOC Atmosphere: The post has a large student population, which gives it a more academic and transient feel than a large operational (FORSCOM) post.

Weekend Trips

1. Washington, D.C. (2.5 hours): An easy and essential weekend trip. Explore the free Smithsonian museums, see the monuments on the National Mall, and experience the nation's capital.
2. Virginia Beach (1.5 - 2 hours): The go-to destination for a classic beach weekend with a lively oceanfront boardwalk.
3. Shenandoah National Park (2 hours): Head west to the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Drive the scenic Skyline Drive and enjoy some of the best hiking on the East Coast.
4. The Outer Banks, NC (3 - 4 hours): For a different kind of beach experience, visit the Outer Banks, known for its lighthouses, the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and wild horses.