UNDER CONSTRUCTION
This project will add two left turn lanes from Albemarle Dr. onto Battlefield Blvd., provide a new traffic signal at the intersection, add crosswalks and pedestrian signals, upgrade sidewalks and curb ramps, and provide drainage and utility improvements. Roadway work is completed, and final work is suspended until the delivery of the signal post and equipment.
- Project Construction Start: September 2020
- Projected Construction Completion: July 2021
- Project Budget: $1.35 million
NOTE: This is a Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) project. For more information about this feasibility study, visit www.bowershillinterchange.com.
IN DESIGN
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), in coordination with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), has initiated the environmental review process for the preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA) to evaluate potential transportation improvements at the Bowers Hill interchange. The Bowers Hill interchange includes a confluence of I-664, I-64, I-264, U.S. Route 460, U.S. Route 58, U.S. Route 13 and Jolliff Road (VA Route 191).
VIDEO PRESENTATION
This informational video provides an update on the Bowers Hill Interchange Improvements Study and an opportunity for the public to provide input to inform the development of potential improvements to the study area.
IN DESIGN
Project will provide for the extension of turn lanes in the vicinity of the Butts Station Rd. intersection at Kempsville Rd. This project will include the design and installation of pavement widening, associated improvements to the drainage system, and relocation of existing utilities. Survey plans are under review.
- Project Design Start: January 2020
- Projected Completion: February 2022
- Project Budget: $1.15 million
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
This project will provide for the addition of a new right turn lane on Campostella Rd. at Sunrise Ave. in the South Norfolk area. This project will also include improvements to the associated drainage system needed for the lane addition. The City will utilize an annual services contractor for construction, and is coordinating the temporary relocation of the bus passenger shelter with HRT.
- Project Construction Start: February 2019
- Projected Construction Completion: April 2021
- Funds Appropriated: $150,000
REPAIRS UNDERWAY
The Centerville Turnpike Bridge remains closed to vehicular traffic after being struck by a barge the morning of Nov. 14, 2020.
The U.S. Coast Guard and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident with the City’s cooperation.
The bridge sustained structural, mechanical and electrical damage in the incident, and City staff alongside contractors will place the bridge on jacks on approximately Dec. 23, 2020, to complete the inspection. Repairs are underway.
The current estimated cost of repairs is $2.86 million. Repairs are currently expected to be complete by May 31, 2021. NOTE: These are current estimates, and this information may change based on potential additional findings or unforeseen delays in the repair process. A request for emergency appropriation of funds will be presented to City Council in January. All costs are being tracked, and the City will pursue cost recovery from parties deemed responsible for the incident.
Motorists should use Rt. 168 Chesapeake Expressway as the primary detour route.
Realtime Traffic via Waze
IN PROGRESS
This feasibility study will evaluate options for replacing the Centerville Turnpike Bridge with a fixed-span bridge over the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal that can also provide adequate vertical clearance for navigational activities and a wider bridge for the future roadway widening. Study limit was extended from Butts Station Rd. to north of Elbow Rd. City has recommended five alternatives (four fixed, one movable bridge) be advanced for evaluation. A Virtual Citizen Information Meeting is expected to be scheduled in Spring 2021.
- Project Design Start: May 2019
- Projected Design Completion: Summer 2021
- Project Budget: $500,000
IN DESIGN
This project will provide an entrance and parking area for the planned Civil War Fort Park on Jolliff Rd., located approximately 400 feet south of Davids Mill Dr. The survey is complete, and design is at 90% complete.
- Project Design Start: Spring 2021
- Projected Design Completion: Summer 2021
- Project Budget: To Be Determined
IN DESIGN
This project is funded through Economic Development and Dollar Tree in conjunction with the development at the Dollar Tree campus. The City is coordinating with the project consultant to complete a biddable plan and contract documents. This two-phase project includes:
- Phase 1 (under construction): This will provide a left turn lane for southbound Crossways Blvd. into the Dollar Tree parking lot.
- Phase 2: This will reconfigure and signalize the intersection of Crossways Blvd. with the entrance of Dollar Tree.
- Project Design Start: June 2020
- Projected Design Completion: August 2020
- Project Budget: $1.3 million
IN DESIGN
This project will provide for:
A) the addition of new right turn lanes in the Deep Creek Area, including the addition of new right turn lanes in both directions along S. Military Hwy. at the I-64 interchange
B) the addition of a new right-turn lane along the westbound lanes of Moses Grandy Trail at Terwillinger Rd., with associated drainage system improvements.
The S. Military Hwy. portions of the project may be delayed due to the VDOT I-64 project. Design will be completed in-house. The Moses Grandy Tl. portion of the project is under review for construction via annual services contract.
- Construction Start: December 2019
- Projected Construction Completion: April 2021
- Project Budget: $338,000
PROCUREMENT
This VDOT-funded project includes paving of the existing parking area adjacent to the boat ramp, construction of a rest area facility, and associated improvements at the Ballahack Boat Ramp area of the Great Dismal Swamp. The City is awaiting authorization to advertise from the VDOT Central Office. Public Works is coordinating funding availability with Parks, Recreation and Tourism.
- Project Start: August 2017
- Projected Design Completion: August 2020
- Project Budget: $401,800
IN DESIGN
This project will convert Edwin Dr. from a one-way operational road into a two-way operation from Hillcrest Pkwy to Edinburgh Ln. The project will include pavement markings, traffic signal modifications, and re-alignment of the Rt. 168 Chesapeake Expressway southbound on-ramp to accommodate the new two-way traffic operation. New curb and gutter, barriers, retaining wall, and drainage improvements along the corridor will be included.
A virtual citizen information meeting launched in February 2021, available at https://bit.ly/edwindr.
- Project Design Start: May 2020
- Projected Design Completion: May 2021
- Project Budget: $1.8 million
IN DESIGN
This project includes replacement of the bridge carrying Elbow Rd. over the Stumpy Lake Spillway and associated approach work. Project is 100% funded through VDOT State of Good Repair program. Project will include coordination with Virginia Beach. 30% plans were submitted in July 2020.
- Project Design Start: November 2019
- Projected Design Completion: March 2022
- Project Budget: $6.54 million
IN DESIGN
This project will provide for construction of two 12-foot lanes with 4-foot paved shoulders, as well as stormwater ditch improvements on Elbow Rd. from 3/4-mile east of Centerville Turnpike to the Virginia Beach city border. Right-of-way acquisition will allow future widening of the existing roadway to four lanes. Coordination continues with environmental agencies and approved developments along the corridor. 30% plans were submitted in July 2020.
- Project Start: January 2019
- Projected Completion: Fall 2021
- Project Budget: $20.2 million
CITIZEN INFORMATION MEETING HELD NOV. 21, 2019
Click here to view meeting brochure
IN DESIGN
Installation of new concrete sidewalk and handicap-accessible ramps within the existing right-of-way on the south side of Hanbury Rd. from Hanbury Shopping Center to Hillwell Rd., and on both sides of Etheridge Manor Blvd. from Cooper's Ditch bridge to River Gates Rd. The project will include pedestrian crossing improvements involving new pedestrian displays, push buttons, and stamped asphalt crosswalks at the two signalized intersections of Benson Rd. and Hillwell Rd. In-house design is at 60%, and a virtual citizen information meeting will be scheduled in Spring 2021.
- Project Design Start: July 2019
- Projected Design Completion: Spring 2021
- Project Budget: $1 million
IN DESIGN
This project will develop a city-wide fiber optic broadband and wireless solution for the City of Chesapeake. There will be an initial assessment to develop the master plan for this project. This project will design and create a string, diverse network with carrier-grade mixture of fiber optic broadband and wireless infrastructure to improve emergency services, as well as reduce startup and ongoing costs for the City's enterprise operations while improving the overall economic landscape of the City.
- Project Design Start: October 2020
- Project Design Completion: February 2021
- Project Budget: $32.6 million
IN DESIGN
This project will provide grade separation of Freeman Ave. at the Norfolk-Portsmouth Beltline Railroad crossing. project includes realignment and re-connection of several local streets near the crossing. 50% of funding is provided by Federal Railroad Administration, with the remaining 50% coming from the City.
A virtual citizen information meeting was launched online in February 2021, available at https://bit.ly/freemanNPBL.
- Project Design Start: August 2021
- Projected Design Completion: December 2023
- Project Budget: $20.3 million
IN DESIGN
This project will provide for improvements to George Washington Hwy. (U.S. Route 17) by widening the existing two-lane undivided roadway to a four-lane divided roadway from Yadkin Rd. to Canal Dr. This project will also include improvements at three signalized intersections, new pedestrian facilities, stormwater drainage system, and will address other safety and access management issues along the corridor. A design request for proposal (RFP) is being developed for this project. Project has been awarded Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) Federal grant funding, and VDOT Smart Scale grant funding.
- Project Design Start: September 2020
- Projected Design Completion: To Be Determined
- Project Budget: $27.4 million
PROCUREMENT
Project provides for counterweight track repair work on the Gilmerton Bridge. Additional work includes repairs to the freight elevator door and the bridge skew system. Work will require 26 overnight closures of the bridge, which will be announced once scheduled. Project includes $495,000 in VDOT funding. Re-advertisement is slated for March 2021.
- Project Design Start: July 2020
- Projected Construction Completion: December 2021
- Project Budget: $1.51 million
IN DESIGN
This project will create an additional turn lane on Great Bridge Blvd. eastbound and widen the right turn southbound receiving lane on Battlefield Blvd. A virtual citizen information meeting was held in August 2020. 90% plans have been completed. The City will meet with church stakeholders prior to starting right-of-way and utility relocation phases.
- Project Design Start: October 2018
- Projected Design Completion: August 2021
- Project Budget: $1.2 million
PROJECT PLANS
Click the image below to view a high-resolution version of the diagram.

IN DESIGN
This project will provide for the extension of the right turn lane on Greenbrier Pkwy. at Kempsville Rd. This project will include the design and installation of pavement widening, improvements to the associated drainage system, and relocation of existing utilities. 90% plans are currently under review.
- Project Design Start: February 2019
- Projected Design Completion: May 2021
- Funds Appropriated: $350,000
IN DESIGN
This project will extend sidewalks on both sides of Volvo Pkwy. from Crossways Blvd. to Sam's Dr. (crossing the existing railroad tracks.) Project will feature in-house railroad coordination, and the design will feature multi-directional sidewalk on the east side of Volvo Pkwy. Police emergency media crossing will be constructed through a standalone work order. Railroad coordination is underway.
- Project Start: July 2018
- Projected Design Completion: Fall 2021
- Project Budget: $1.2 million
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
This project, managed by VDOT, will include the addition of one proposed HOT lane in each direction in the median of the existing I-64, bringing the corridor to six lanes,and a new high-level High Rise Bridge with a fixed span. The City of Chesapeake continues to support VDOT and the project by reviewing plans and issuing permits as needed.
Follow this project via VDOT's project website at www.64highrise.org.
- Project Start: August 2016
- Projected Construction Completion: December 2022
- Project Budget: $600 million
IN DESIGN
This project will provide a right-turn movement and lane on Johnstown Rd. at Battlefield Blvd. This project will include right-of-way acquisition, design and installation of road and pavement improvements, and associated utility relocations. Right-of-way acquisition is underway, and only acquisition is currently funded. An expanded project concept was selected for a SmartScale grant.
- Project Design Start: Fall 2021
- Projected Design Completion: Fall 2022
- Project Budget: $1.65 million
IN DESIGN
This project will add a center lane on Johnstown Rd. from Hanbury Rd. to Waters Rd. A traffic study concluded that no additional left-turn lanes are required at the intersection of Hanbury Rd. and Johnstown Rd. Plans are at 30% complete.
- Project Design Start: March 2019
- Projected Design Completion: June 2021
- Project Budget: $1.5 million
CONSTRUCTION PENDING
This project will widen Mt. Pleasant Rd. by constructing a third (center) lane between the Route 168 Bypass interchange and Cooper's Ditch Bridge. Drainage easements have been acquired. Utility coordination is complete. Construction is on hold until the Centerville Turnpike Bridge is repaired and reopened to avoid major impacts to detour traffic.
- Project Construction Start: March 2021
- Projected Construction Completion: To Be Determined
- Project Budget: $2.3 million
CITIZEN INFORMATION MEETING HELD MARCH 7, 2019
Citizen Information Meeting Brochure
PROJECT DIAGRAMS/EXHIBITS
Click on each image to view in higher resolution (in a new window.)


IN DESIGN
This project will replace the Number 10 Ln. Bridge with multiple box culverts. Project is 100% funded through VDOT State of Good Repair program, along with Federal funding. The City is coordinating with the Department of Historic Resources due to the historic nature of the Lindsay Canal. 60% plans have been submitted to VDOT for review. A virtual citizen information meeting will be scheduled in Spring 2021.
- Project Design Start: April 2019
- Projected Design Completion: Summer 2021
- Funds Appropriated: $1.25 million
IN DESIGN
This projects includes rehabilitation of the Oaklette Bridge, which carries Indian River Rd. over Indian Creek. Work includes pile jacket with cathodic protection, deck and beam small repairs, and bridge joint repairs. This project is 100% funded through VDOT's State of Good Repair program.
- Project Design Start: March 2021
- Projected Design Completion: April 2022
- Project Budget: $5.12 million
IN DESIGN
This projects includes the replacement of the Old Mill Rd. pipe culvert with a precast concrete pipe culvert. The project will also raise the grade of the road to prevent future flooding of the roadway. This project is 100% funded through VDOT's State of Good Repair program, along with Federal funding. The City is coordinating with the Department of Historic Resources to avoid impact to a cemetery being located within project limits. 60% plans have been submitted to VDOT for review.
- Project Design Start: March 2019
- Projected Design Completion: Spring 2021
- Project Budget: $1.15 million
IN DESIGN
Project will provide 5-foot sidewalk from Bainbridge Blvd. to Elizabeth River Park at the South Norfolk Jordan Bridge along the south side of the I-464 overpass at Poindexter St. Scheduling of notice-to-proceed is underway.
- Project Design Start: December 2019
- Projected Design Completion: May 2021
- Project Budget: $548,000
DESIGN PENDING
This project will replace the Rotunda Ave. Bridge with multiple box culverts. This project is 100% funded through the VDOT State of Good Repair program. Project is scheduled to begin in Fiscal Year 2022.
- Project Design Start: To Be Determined
- Projected Design Completion: To Be Determined
- Project Budget: $1.19 million
CONSTRUCTION PENDING
This project will provide design and construction of 74 additional parking spaces at the Russell Memorial Library. A preferred alternative has been selected, and a public exhibit is on display inside the library. Public Works will employ an on-call contractor to construct this project. Lighting relocation is underway by Dominion Energy. Construction expected to begin in Spring 2021.
- Project Design Start: Fall 2018
- Design Completion: November 2020
- Project Budget: $500,000
IN DESIGN
Phase 1 of this project will provide sidewalk along Seaboard Ave. from Liberty St. onto Industrial Ave. Phase 2 of the project will continue the sidewalk along Industrial Ave. to Obendorfer Rd. Project to be constructed in Spring 2021 (with the exception of areas that require right-of-way acquisition or additional coordination with railroad company and utility providers.)
- Project Design Start: March 2020
- Projected Design Completion: May 2021
- Project Budget: $763,000
IN DESIGN
This program will address existing deficiencies along the City's rural roads. The first project in this program will add 3 feet of pavement widening, 15 feet of unpaved shoulder widening, and an improved ditch to 4-foot bottom with 2-to-1 side slopes on Shillelagh Rd. from Herring Ditch to 3,600 feet north of the ditch. 100% plans and contracts are currently in development.
- Project Design Start: Fall 2017
- Projected Design Completion: Spring 2021
- Project Budget: $1.25 million
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
This project will provide a stormwater best management practice (BMP) for the area associated with the South Norfolk ForKids parking lot, and a new public parking area. Project construction is underway, and the BMP is complete.
- Project Construction Start: March 2021
- Projected Construction Completion: April 2021
- Project Budget: $550,000
IN DESIGN
This project will provide for rehabilitation of the existing Triple Decker Bridge structure in order to extend the service life of the bridge. Rehabilitation is necessary to avoid implementation of a weight restriction on S. Military Hwy. where it crosses Bainbridge Blvd. Project is funded though VDOT State of Good Repair program, with no Federal requirements. Design began in January 2020.
- Project Design Start: January 2020
- Projected Design Completion: December 2021
- Project Budget: $8.9 million
WELCOME!
The City of Chesapeake welcomes you to the Virtual Citizen Information Meeting for the proposed Great Bridge Blvd. and Battlefield Blvd. Right-Turn Lane Improvements Project. A Virtual Citizen Information Meeting is an opportunity for the public to review the ongoing development of project information.
This informational meeting is being held to provide an opportunity for any person, acting on his or her own behalf, or representing a group or a governmental agency, to give the City his or her comments and/or suggestions concerning the proposed project after reviewing the project information.
This Citizen Information Meeting had been delayed due to the ongoing impacts of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The City of Chesapeake has and continues to work diligently to continue providing vital services to residents while prioritizing the safety of residents and City staff. A Virtual Citizen Information meeting allows us to provide important project information and welcome feedback while adhering to established social distancing and safety protocols.
PURPOSE OF PROJECT
The intersection of Battlefield Blvd., Great Bridge Blvd., and Kempsville Rd. currently experiences traffic congestion during peak commuting periods. The daytime population of this area experiences a considerable influx of commuters, exceeding 93,000 vehicles each day. These factors contribute to the current intersection operating in an over-saturated condition during both AM and PM peak hours.
This project includes improvements to the intersection that will add an additional eastbound right-turn lane along Great Bridge Blvd., that will improve traffic flow through the intersection. The project will also include signal modifications to incorporate the additional second eastbound through lane, channelized right-turn lane to southbound Battlefield Blvd., as well as lane reassignments, revised pedestrian facilities to include sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals. The additional eastbound lane not only improves queuing for traffic, but also allows the timing of the signal to be adjusted, which will reduce the queuing on the other three approaches to the intersection.
In addition to operational improvements, the proposed geometric improvement of lanes will improve safety for both motorists and pedestrians at this intersection. In particular, with the current skew of the right-turn lane, the improvements will result in an improved angle for the right-turn movement, which will improve safety and reduce the high incidents of rear-end crash accidents.
PROJECT DIAGRAM
Click the image below to view a high-resolution version of the diagram.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
-
Project limits are 300 feet west of the intersection (along Great Bridge Blvd.) and 250 feet south of the intersection (along Battlefield Blvd.)
- Roadway improvements include the widening of eastbound Great Bridge Blvd. at the Battlefield Blvd., intersection to accommodate one additional through lane and right-turn lane.
- Storm drainage improvements include storm pipe extensions to inlets along the proposed right-turn lane.
- Traffic signal improvements include the complete replacement of one existing traffic signal mast arm for the eastbound Great Bridge/Battlefield approach, as well as pedestrian crosswalk and signal improvements in the southwest quadrant.
- Signing and pavement marking improvements include the new eastbound through lane and right-turn lane along the project limits.
- Utility relocations, including several power poles, will be required to allow this improvement.
PROJECT SCHEDULE
Design Completion: February 2021
Right of Way Completion: April 2021
Construction Start: August 2021 (4-month construction duration)
PROJECT BUDGET
The project budget Includes engineering, land acquisition and construction funding. Note: Project costs are preliminary and subject to change depending on final design features, inflation, utility relocation and right-of-way costs.
Budget: $1.2 million
RIGHT-OF-WAY
The intersection improvements will require some property acquisition for right-of-way and easement purposes. Currently, there is one parcel affected by the project. Prior to the right-of-way acquisition process and construction, all required right-of-way and easements will be shown on the plans.
City representatives will be able to review answer questions regarding right-of-way and easement acquisitions via the comment form below or in response to mailed comments.
YOUR FEEDBACK
The public comment period will close 10 calendar days after the launch of the Virtual Citizen Information Meeting (August 27, 2020). City representatives will review and evaluate any comments received as a result of the Citizen Information Meeting.
WELCOME!
The City of Chesapeake welcomes you to the Edwin Drive Improvements Project. A Virtual Citizen Information Meeting is an opportunity for the public to review the ongoing development of project information.
This informational meeting is being held to provide an opportunity for any person, acting on his or her own behalf, or representing a group or a governmental agency, to give the City his or her comments and/or suggestions concerning the proposed project after reviewing the project information.
This Citizen Information Meeting had been delayed due to the ongoing impacts of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The City of Chesapeake has and continues to work diligently to continue providing vital services to residents while prioritizing the safety of residents and City staff. A Virtual Citizen Information meeting allows us to provide important project information and welcome feedback while adhering to established social distancing and safety protocols.
PURPOSE OF PROJECT
Edwin Drive is currently a one-way road from Edinburgh Lane (movie theater access road) to Hillcrest Parkway, that does not allow northbound access to Hillcrest Parkway, or the southbound Route 168 Chesapeake Expressway. Motorists must either travel through the commercial access roads that serve the businesses in the development or travel around the development using Armstrong Road and Edinburgh Parkway to return to the Hillcrest Parkway intersection with Edwin Drive.
The purpose of this project is to convert Edwin Drive from a one-way operational road into a two-way operational road from Edinburgh Lane to Hillcrest Parkway. In addition to the two-way operation along Edwin Drive, the project will realign the Route 168 Chesapeake Expressway southbound entrance ramp to accommodate the new two-way traffic operations. The realigned ramp will allow full-sized tractor-trailer trucks to access the ramp from both directions on Edwin Drive.
PROJECT DIAGRAM
Click the image below to view a high-resolution version of the diagram.

PROJECT SCHEDULE
Right of Way Completion: April 2021
Design Completion: May 2021
Construction Start: Summer 2021
PROJECT BUDGET
The project budget Includes engineering, land acquisition and construction funding.
Budget: $1.8 million
RIGHT-OF-WAY
The road improvements will require some property acquisition for right-of-way and easement purposes. Currently there are three parcels affected by the project. Prior to the right-of-way acquisition process and construction, all required right-of-way and easements will be shown on the plans.
City Representatives will be able to review questions regarding right-of-way and easement acquisitions via the comment form on the meeting website or in response to mailed comment forms.
YOUR FEEDBACK
The public comment period will close on March 7, 2021. City representatives will review and evaluate any comments received as a result of the Citizen Information Meeting.
WELCOME!
The City of Chesapeake welcomes you to the Virtual Citizen Information Meeting for the proposed Freeman Avenue Bridge / Norfolk and Portsmouth Beltline (NPBL) Railroad Overpass project. A Virtual Citizen Information Meeting is an opportunity for the public to review the ongoing development of project information.
This informational meeting is being held to provide an opportunity for any person, acting on his or her own behalf, or representing a group or a governmental agency, to provide the City with his or her comments and/or suggestions concerning the proposed project, after reviewing the project information.
A comment sheet is included for this meeting, and your input is encouraged. All written and emailed comments received on the project will be included in a transcript for review by City personnel, citizens and other interested parties. City staff will address questions and concerns raised as a result of this meeting.
This Citizen Information Meeting is being conducted virtually due to the ongoing impacts of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The City of Chesapeake has and continues to work diligently to continue providing vital services to residents while prioritizing the safety of residents and City staff. A Virtual Citizen Information meeting allows us to provide important project information and welcome feedback while adhering to established social distancing and safety protocols.
PURPOSE OF PROJECT
Freeman Avenue serves as an integral part of the roadway transportation network in the South Norfolk area of Chesapeake, Virginia. Freeman Avenue serves as the only connecting road between the peninsula of the Money Point /Western South Norfolk area to the greater Hampton Roads region, including I-464 and the surrounding Hampton Roads interstate system.
Currently, there is an at-grade railroad crossing of the NPBL and Freeman Avenue in the City of Chesapeake. The existing railroad crossing is controlled by flashing lights and automatic gates for both the eastbound and westbound directions.
The purpose and need of the proposed project is to replace the existing at-grade railroad crossing at Freeman Avenue with an overpass to improve overall reliability and safety of the transportation system and create a continuous, unimpaired flow of traffic along Freeman Avenue to:
- Reduce vehicular delays to and from the Money Point industrial area while the railroad is in use
- Eliminate conflicts between roadway and rail traffic
- Enhance emergency response (Freeman Avenue is the only roadway access to the Money Point industrial area).
The proposed improvements will also promote economic growth by increasing the capacity of the rail yard and railroad track in the area of Freeman Avenue.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed project involves a new roadway overpass along Freeman Avenue that would remove the existing at-grade railroad crossing of the NPBL railroad line and includes new connecting roads for access to properties.
The conceptual Build Alternatives include the following:
- The proposed roadway on Freeman Avenue is two lanes.
- Freeman Avenue will utilize a design speed of 35 mph.
- The bridge and roadway do not include dedicated pedestrian and bicycle facilities; however 8-foot shoulders are proposed as accommodations.
In cooperation with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the City of Chesapeake is preparing an environmental document in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) NEPA regulations, for the proposed Project.
The environmental document will analyze the environmental effects of a No-Build Alternative and a Build Alternative(s) along the Freeman Avenue corridor at the NPBL railroad crossing.
PROJECT DIAGRAM
Five build alternatives, with different sub-alternatives, were developed for the Freeman Avenue Bridge. Two build alternatives, Alternative 1 and 2, have been move forward for public comment. As a result of public comments, one alternative is anticipated to be identified as the locally preferred alternative for further analysis.
Alternative 1
The Freeman Avenue Bridge is located in the same location as the existing road. Compared to the other alternatives, it has low permanent impacts to properties on both sides of the road. The Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) walls and approach roadway embankment would also have the highest impact on sanitary sewer lines, waterlines, underground communications lines, power lines, and Virginia Natural Gas lines.
A temporary detour for traffic during construction would be located south of the existing road. Utilities impacted by the MSE walls and approach roadway embankment would likely be relocated to the south of the existing road. Click the graphic below to view a high-resolution version.

Alternative 2
The Freeman Avenue Bridge is located to the south of the existing road. Compared to the other alternatives, it has medium right-of-way impacts since permanent right-of-way will be required for Freeman Avenue. Traffic can use the existing road during construction.
Utilities located within the existing roadway will not be impacted. However, the overhead communications and power lines located to the south of the existing roadway will be impacted. Click the graphic below to view a high-resolution version.

PROJECT SCHEDULE
Environmental Document Completion:
Late Summer 2021
Design Completion:
December 2023
Right-of-Way Acquisition:
2023
Begin Construction:
2024
PROJECT BUDGET
The overall Project Budget is
$20,340,000, including design, right-of-way acquisition, and construction costs. Preliminary cost data has been developed for the proposed alternatives within the available project budget.
RIGHT-OF-WAY
The proposed project will require some property acquisition for right-of-way and easement purposes. There are a number of existing commercial and residential structures as well as the existing Money Point First Baptist Church, on the north side of Freeman Avenue located close to the existing road.
Prior to the right-of-way acquisition process and construction, all required right-of-way and easements will be presented on the plans. City representatives will be able to review answer questions regarding right-of-way and easement acquisitions via the comment form below or in response to mailed comments.
YOUR FEEDBACK
The public comment period will close on March 12, 2021. City representatives will review and evaluate any comments received as a result of the Citizen Information Meeting.
IN DESIGN
Phase 1 of the project will provide eastbound 1 right turn lane and re-striping to create 3 left turn lanes, 2 through lanes, and 1 exclusive right turn lane. WSP is working to complete the 60% plans submittal, and Public Works is planning to start advanced right-of-way coordination.
- Project Design Start: June 2020
- Projected Design Completion: May 2021
- project Budget: $1.35 million
CONSTRUCTION PENDING
This is a VDOT-funded project. Phase 1 of the proposed 10-foot multi-use path is from the Portsmouth-Chesapeake City line to the terminal immediately east of I-664. The path is located on the abandoned railway. Environmental documents EQ-429 and NEPA are approved. VDOT has approved $170,000 matching City funding. Awaiting VDOT authorization to award contract.
- Projected Construction Start: March 2021
- Design Construction Completion: October 2021
- Project Budget: $850,000
CITIZEN INFORMATION MEETING HELD APRIL 25, 2019
Citizen Information Meeting Brochure
RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUISITION
This project will install an eastbound right turn lane on Woodlake Dr. to southbound Greenbrier Pkwy., and will include traffic signal improvements. The project will also include drainage improvements to the primary Greenbrier outfall and utility relocation within the right-of-way. Right-of-way acquisition is underway.
- Project Design Start: Fall 2017
- Project Design Completion: July 2020
- Project Budget: $2.16 million