WPA in collaboration with the City of Norfolk completed a design workshop for the Poplar Halls neighborhood. The initiative focused on two key sites: the former Grate Steak/motel property and the former Poplar Halls Elementary School location.
The project’s primary objective was to establish a community-driven vision for new development in these areas. This approach was prompted by previous unsuccessful development proposals and aimed to preemptively address community concerns.
A design workshop, held on March 25, 2023, engaged over 45 community members. Participants created development plans, which WPA synthesized into four main options. These plans consistently featured a mix of housing types, including single-family homes, townhouses, and small apartment buildings. Community amenities such as event spaces, meeting rooms, and walking trails were also prominent features.
The report includes a market analysis, providing data on optimal unit types, sizes, and price points for the area. This analysis, conducted by Zimmerman/Volk Associates, suggests a demand for both workforce and market-rate housing units.
Moving forward, the report will be made publicly available to guide potential developers. Any future proposals will be expected to align with the community’s vision and undergo a process of community engagement before proceeding.
This initiative represents a shift in Norfolk’s development approach, prioritizing community input early in the process to create a more predictable and mutually beneficial development environment.
