Where To Put The Bus Transfer Station...

A new debate has started to brew amongst Norfolk City Council members.  Where should they put the much-needed new HRT Bus Transfer Station?  After almost a year of surveys and seeking public recommendations, it seems the two final options are next to Harbor Park as part of the planned Multi-Modal Transportation Center and in St. Paul's quadrant, where the old ABC store stands.

CC Image courtesy of Norfolk Department of Development

According to the Pilot, The St. Paul's plan would cost $4-$5.5 million and would connect 17 bus routes, with up to 50 buses using the station each hour.  A pedestrian signal would also have to be added on St. Paul's Blvd.  This plan was highly opposed by city council due to the congestion it would undoubtedly create during rush hour. City Manager Marcus Jones and HRT are strong supporters of the plan.

Proposed Multi-Modal Transportation Center at Harbor Park

CC Image courtesy of Norfolk Department of Development

A bus transfer station at Harbor Park would be a component 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.  Most of city council (in addition to the general public)seems to be supporting this plan, however they were told the project would cost more than $20 million because of road upgrades.  Really?  it's going to cost an extra $15 million to create new roads in an already empty parking lot?

With construction slated to begin next October, approval for this is on the front burner.  Mayor Fraim suggested to the council members, to come up with a way to fund Harbor Park if there were opposed to St. Paul's.  Hopefully, someone steps up.