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 proactively address community concerns.
A design workshop held on March 25, 2023, engaged more than 45 community members. Participants developed conceptual plans, which WPA synthesized into four main options. Common themes included a mix of housing types—single-family homes, townhouses, and small apartment buildings—as well as community amenities such as event spaces, meeting rooms, and walking trails.
The final report includes a market analysis conducted by Zimmerman/Volk Associates, outlining optimal unit types, sizes, and price points for the area. The findings indicate a demand for both workforce and market-rate housing.
Moving forward, the report will be 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 advancing.
This initiative marks a shift in Norfolk’s development approach, emphasizing early community input to create a more predictable and mutually beneficial development process.
