South Norfolk was one of the first settled sections of Chesapeake. In 1620, the English established a settlement on the Elizabeth River. By the early 1900s, South Norfolk had its own public school, post office, and waterworks. South Norfolk incorporated as an independent town in 1919. The City of Chesapeake was created when South Norfolk merged with Norfolk County in 1963 to become a new city. The South Norfolk Business District located off of Poindexter Street is lined with historic homes and buildings and is home to both national and local historic districts. The area has easy access to the region's Interstates, the Jordan Bridge, and Chesapeake's industrial waterfront.

In 2014, Chesapeake City staff met with community representatives from the  South Norfolk Revitalization Commision  and the  South Norfolk Civic League  as well as other City departments to discuss community needs and revitalization strategies. The result of this collective dialogue and review led to a list of findings that were used to guide the selection of potential projects recommended for funding under the South Norfolk Tax Increment Financing District. Read about their findings in the  South Norfolk Municipal Facilities Study and Development Strategy Final Report .

The City of Chesapeake and the State of Virginia both offer incentives and resources for new and expanding companies. The incentives are designed to target the needs of both the company and the development plans of localitites and the state.

A list of resources to help start or expand a business is provided below:

• A  step-by-step guide to starting a business  was created by Economic Development.

• A  step-by-step guide to applying for a business license  in Chesapeake from the Commissioner of the Revenue's Business Services.

• Information about  economic incentives  for opening a business in South Norfolk is available from the Chesapeake Economic Development Department.

There are more than 74 parks in the City of Chesapeake, with many located within a 2-mile radius of the South Norfolk Revitalization Focus Area. These parks offer a wide range of recreational opportunities from the most active use of sports and outdoor fitness equipment, walking trails, and playgrounds, to more passive areas for relaxation and respite. Many have historical significance, honoring local heroes from past and present, and provide features for reflection and remembrance to those who served our country.

South Norfolk parks are also event venues for the annual South Norfolk Parade & Picnic in the Park at Lakeside Park, the Rolling on the River Food Truck series, Movie & More series, and other educational and engaging programs at Elizabeth River Park. These parks offer a way for residents to connect with nature and each other and provide opportunities for a healthier lifestyle. Recreational opportunities are available for dogs too with walking trails and a designated dog park at Elizabeth River Park.