WPA has made community service a cornerstone of its practice, so it’s no surprise to see firm members leading the expansion of the Elizabeth River Trail (ERT), one of Norfolk’s most dynamic urban projects. Originally envisioned by the West Ghent Neighborhood League, the Norfolk Historical Society, Norfolk Southern Corp., and the City of Norfolk, the trail first connected West Ghent to historic Fort Norfolk, a site significant for its role in the War of 1812.
Recognizing the potential to transform the trail into a world-class community asset, WPA and its partners established the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation in collaboration with the Greater Norfolk Corporation. The nonprofit organization has raised more than $4 million, including multiple state and federal grants, to enhance the existing 10.5-mile trail with expanded routes, improved connectivity, and new amenities.
Today, the trail continues to evolve through comprehensive master planning, strategic expansion initiatives, trailhead development, and a cohesive signage and wayfinding program. One of the most significant proposed improvements is the Lambert’s Point Pedestrian Bridge, a new connection designed to span Norfolk Southern rail lines at Jeff Robertson Park. The bridge would eliminate a difficult section of trail along Hampton Boulevard, creating a safer and more inviting route between the Lambert’s Point and West Ghent neighborhoods. The proposed design features a prefabricated truss bridge with ADA-accessible approaches, integrated lighting, opportunities for public art, interpretive signage, and details inspired by the ERT’s signature Glowline. By replacing one of the trail’s most challenging segments, the bridge would strengthen connectivity along a corridor used by nearly 750,000 pedestrians and cyclists annually.
Expansion plans extend the trail north to Naval Station Norfolk and east to Virginia Beach and South Norfolk, connecting three major universities—Old Dominion University, Eastern Virginia Medical School, and Norfolk State University—as well as Sentara Norfolk and key economic centers. The enhanced trail will feature 11 new trailheads serving the 28 neighborhoods located within a five-minute walk of the ERT.
Proposed amenities include kayak launches, solar lighting, playgrounds, improved wayfinding, solar-charged luminous paths, charging stations, and public art. Together, these improvements continue to strengthen the Elizabeth River Trail as a premier recreational, transportation, and cultural destination for the region.
