Downtown Bus Transfer Facility to Harbor Park?

Not just yet.  But according to the Pilot, that's the preferred location.  The Norfolk City Planning Commission was pushing to relocate the bus transfer facility from its current temporary location at Cedar Grove (near the cemetery) to the site of the former ABC store off of St. Paul's Blvd.  The plan would allow for up to 50 buses coming in and out of the facility per hour. However, those in attendance at Thursday's Public Hearing clearly had other plans.

CC Image courtesy of Norfolk Department of Development

Attendees were in favor of moving the $5.5 million facility to Harbor Park as part of the Multi-Modal Transportation Center.  The center would serve the Tide, passenger rail (possibly high-speed rail), buses and ferries coming up and down the Elizabeth River. It would also be very accessible via bike and is just off of Interstate 264. The city is currently constructing a passenger rail station to serve Amtrak.

Frank Duke, Norfolk City Planning Commission, has been trying to get the Multi-modal Transportation Center going but says there have been recurring issues, including proximity to Downtown Norfolk, parking, and traffic.  He says that a station at St. Paul's makes Downtown Norfolk much more accessible to riders.

City Councilwoman Theresa Whibley said there were issues with the St. Paul's proposal due to traffic congestion and its close proximity to homes.  Councilwoman Angelia Williams cited these issues, but also worried about turning the prime piece of real estate on St. Paul's into a bus transfer station.

Personally, I am in favor of the Multi-Modal Center.  I think it could develop the area around Harbor Park big-time.  As far as Downtown Norfolk being inaccessible from Harbor Park, I can understand that.  

However, I don't agree with plopping an over glorified bus station down right in the middle of a property that could be developed into something such as office or retail space.  In addition, if the St. Paul's Quadrant plan plays out extending Downtown Norfolk to the east, your downtown is essentially being brought closer to Harbor Park, making it a stones-throw away.