Norfolk · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Norfolk public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Department of Transportation Restructuring
Staff will explain the ongoing restructuring of the city's Department of Transportation and how it affects current and proposed projects, outreach, and issues the commission is tracking.
Hampton Boulevard safety projects pipeline
A long list of safety upgrades is in motion: a signal modernization at Magnolia Avenue, railroad message signs, raised crosswalks on Bolling Avenue, curve warnings at Little Creek Road, and the DCIP stormwater project at Lexan Avenue. Most construction lands in 2027–2028.
Safety measures implemented since 2018
The task force reviewed completed safety improvements on Hampton Boulevard since 2018, including the Glenwood Park median safety project and a southbound dynamic speed display sign near the Larchmont library.
Hampton Boulevard corridor safety projects
A slate of safety projects is moving: signal upgrades at Magnolia Avenue (construction eyed for early 2028), intersection work at Jamestown Crescent (late 2027), raised crosswalks on Bolling Avenue, railroad message signs, a 25th Street sidewalk extension, and the $3.7 million DCIP stormwater project at Lexan Avenue that must wrap up by September 2028.
Raised crosswalks
Keith Darrow was scheduled to present on raised crosswalks, a traffic-calming tool that slows vehicles and improves pedestrian safety at crossings.
Express lanes network completion (HREL 1A/1B) and I-64/I-264 interchange
The express lanes should be fully connected from the Peninsula to Bowers Hill by 2029, with HREL 1A opening by fall 2026 and the I-64/I-264 flyover replacement in final procurement. Goal: a sub-hour trip across the region.
HRBT full weekend closures for repaving
The older HRBT tubes will be fully shut in one direction on select October weekends, 9 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday, meaning detours onto I-664, the Midtown/Downtown tunnels, and the Jordan Bridge. With 100,000+ daily vehicles, expect congestion on alternates — and the contractor is trying to finish each direction in one weekend with bonus incentives.
Tidewater Drive safety funding
Nearly $5 million in state VDOT money — with local matches — will build sidewalk phases on Tidewater Drive and extend the 25th Street sidewalk.
Chesapeake Boulevard pedestrian improvements
The council put $1.97 million of storm water capital funds toward the Chesapeake Boulevard Pedestrian Improvements Project, meaning safer crossings and sidewalks are on the way.