Over the past decade, Norfolk has embarked on an ambitious federal initiative aimed at constructing its largest infrastructure project ever. With a projected budget of $2.6 billion, this endeavor focuses on safeguarding the city against flooding during major storms. The plan encompasses an 8-mile seawall, home elevations, pump stations, and extensive surge barriers across waterways. However, as costs and timelines expand, adjustments are necessary for progress. Leaders from Norfolk and the Army Corps of Engineers recently updated City Council on key developments regarding the Coastal Storm Risk Management project, part of a broader East Coast initiative following Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

While significant progress has been made, challenges remain, including rising costs, reevaluation of floodwall paths, and addressing community concerns. This comprehensive effort seeks not only structural measures but also nonstructural initiatives like property elevation and floodproofing techniques to protect vulnerable neighborhoods.

Rising Costs and Timeline Adjustments

The initial budget for Resilient Norfolk was set at $2.6 billion, with the federal government covering 65% of the expenses. However, recent analyses suggest that costs may exceed the amount approved by Congress in 2020. Factors influencing these increases include updated survey data, hydrologic modeling requiring additional pump stations, and revised designs for wall foundations. Additionally, delays in real estate certification processes have contributed to extended timelines, pushing the estimated completion date to 2037, five years later than originally planned.

Mark Haviland, spokesperson for the Army Corps’ Norfolk District, explained that significant analysis was conducted to document cost drivers. While the Corps awaits approval to finalize related reports, factors such as barge impact requirements and urban integration have necessitated design changes. Addressing these details early ensures smoother construction phases. Construction of the first seawall segment is scheduled to begin this year, extending from Chesterfield Heights to the Berkley Bridge, followed by the first surge barrier across the Lafayette River around 2029. These updates highlight the evolving nature of large-scale projects, where adaptability and thorough planning are crucial for success.

Community Feedback and Inclusion Revisions

Current floodwall plans encircle downtown Norfolk, concluding at Chesterfield Heights to the east and Lambert’s Point to the west. However, this excludes five historically Black neighborhoods across the river prone to flooding. Community resistance led to agreements between Norfolk and the Army Corps to seek federal reevaluation of the floodwall path. Despite ongoing delays in securing funding for this study, efforts persist to ensure equitable protection. Meanwhile, residents of the historic Freemason neighborhood advocate against inclusion within the floodwall due to concerns over obstructed waterfront views and diminished property values.

Project officials emphasize the importance of incorporating community feedback into design considerations. Mayor Kenny Alexander reiterated council members' concerns about the authorized alignment in Freemason, deeming it unacceptable. To address vulnerabilities beyond structural measures, the nonstructural program offers assistance to private homeowners through property elevation and floodproofing techniques. Nearly 1,000 properties on Willoughby Spit and the Southside are pre-eligible for this voluntary initiative. While home buyouts were authorized by Congress, the city currently has no plans to implement them. Balancing community needs with protective infrastructure remains a pivotal challenge in achieving comprehensive coastal resilience.