Naval Station Norfolk Transit Corridor Project Update

In this Story Map, we will share information, graphics, and maps that provide updates about the Naval Station Norfolk Transit Corridor Project (NSNTCP). At the bottom of the Story Map there is a survey. Scroll through to learn more and interact!

After completing a public engagement process and  two tiers of analysis , the picture of Norfolk’s high capacity transit future is taking shape. HRT has identified  two projects to advance  that merit further consideration. One is a Tide extension to the Military Circle Redevelopment Area, and the other is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) to Naval Station Norfolk (NSN). Each project has synergy and strategic advantages. The current round of public meetings, including this Story Map, focuses on the Tide extension.

The enhanced high-capacity transit service along the Military Highway Corridor will provide reliable, efficient access between key destinations, and existing and future development, which will benefit transit users and commuters in Norfolk and across the region.

The project will have a positive impact on business and residents up and down Military Highway, from Naval Station Norfolk to the Military Circle Redevelopment Area.

HRT is seeking funds and City Council support to extend the Tide Light Rail approximately two miles from its current terminus at the Newtown Road Station to the Military Circle Redevelopment Site.

The purpose of the Tide extension is to provide greater and more equitable transportation options, improve access between activity centers, and provide a fast, reliable, flood-resilient, and cost-effective alternative to automobiles.

The Norfolk Economic Development Authority (EDA) purchased much of the Military Circle Mall area in 2020 with the ambitious goal to redevelop it into a thriving, walkable district to support an inclusive, healthy, and sustainable mixed-use community.

The EDA received  three proposals  to redevelop the area (shown below). These developments could provide new places to live and work. The proposals range from about 980 – 1,100 new housing units and an estimated 2,000 – 5,000 new jobs. The EDA and City Council are anticipated to move forward in selecting a proposal this year.

From August 18, 2021, to November 1, 2021, the City of Norfolk solicited public input on the Military Circle Mall redevelopment proposals under review and received over 1,300 responses. Comments and suggestions will be taken into consideration when shaping the final development plan.

The Military Circle Redevelopment project is a key component of Norfolk’s vision for a more resilient future. Shown below, the Vision 2100 Green Areas are at low risk of coastal flooding and have great potential for compact, mixed-use, and mixed income development. Not only that, but the City has designated these areas for transformational development. Serving the Military Circle area with light rail transit will reduce traffic and greenhouse gases associated with growth, while improving accessibility for all between the redevelopment area and the activity centers along the existing Tide.

The study is moving forward with a focus on key considerations including the following:

• Military Circle Redevelopment – The City of Norfolk is anticipated to select a development team soon.
• Funding – Preparing a SMART SCALE application for state funds and developing the broader funding strategy with Norfolk and other stakeholders.   
• Concept Development – Ongoing coordination with Norfolk, VDOT, and major corridor property owners and employers to evaluate the feasibility and design considerations of the Tide extension concept.
• Public Input – Gathering feedback in workshops and online engagement.
• Preparations for Environmental Review – Research and fieldwork in preparation for environmental impact analysis.

The alignment concept features a two-platform station west of the current Newtown Road station, with a redesigned bus loop and facilities. Two new stations are included in the concept: one across from Sentara Leigh Hospital and one in the Military Circle Redevelopment site. The Military Circle station location will be determined with the design of the site but is anticipated to be in the northwest portion of the site, with facilities linking to transit service on Military Highway.

The alignment concept follows the west side of Kempsville Road, passing under I-264 and then turning west near Poplar Hall Drive to cross over I-64 and the western Poplar Hall Drive, then returning to ground level behind Costco on the way into the Military Circle Redevelopment site. This alignment addresses many of the challenges discussed below under “Location and Feasibility Issues”.

Although the alignment concept for the Tide extension will have a variety of impacts, it does avoid several critical challenges in the corridor. The following location and feasibility issues have shaped the recommended alignment:

• Modifications for double-tracking Newtown Road Station shift the station westward.
• Interstate crossings (under I-264 and over I-64) have been carefully evaluated for feasibility.
• Utility pump stations at existing Newtown Road Station and north of I-264 are cost and location considerations.
• The Barry Robinson Center is an historic resource and a sensitive type of land use.
• The First Baptist Church has a Grave Site adjacent to Kempsville Road.
• Property impacts will occur from both the location of new rail facilities and shifting other infrastructure in the corridor including roads and utilities.
• The Sentara Leigh Hospital helipad has some restrictions to preserve its safety and flight path.
• Emergency vehicle access to Sentara Leigh is a safety priority affecting Kempsville Road.
• Existing and forecasted traffic on Kempsville Road is a design consideration for the light rail location and its impacts to the capacity of Kempsville Road.
• The Center Drive intersection is a design consideration because of its location close to I-264 and because it serves Kempsville Road traffic accessing I-264.
• Wetlands and streams in the study area are among the regulated environmental features that must be considered in project design.

Please fill out this survey to let us know your thoughts!

For the latest information, visit the  project website , where you can also sign up for the newsletter.