Big news in Hampton Roads!

Aerial view.

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF)–for whom I work–is a key partner in a plan to save 122 acres (includes water acreage) of Lynnhaven River frontage in Virginia Beach from intensive development.

The property, known as Pleasure House Point, has been the focus of extensive community debate, with local groups such as Shore Drive Community Coalition, Lynnhaven River NOW, and CBF vigorously opposed to development proposed for the parcel. The site is one of the largest remaining undeveloped tracts on the Lynnhaven River waterfront but has been targeted by builders for more than 1,000 homes, condos and high-rise buildings. The sour economy slowed that plan, but likely only temporarily.

CBF, working with the City of Virginia Beach and the Trust for Public Land (TPL), a national land conservation organization, led a partnership effort to preserve the property from the proposed development. It looks like that effort is paying off.

Recently, Virginia Beach Mayor William Sessoms, Vice Mayor Louis Jones, and the Virginia Beach City Council announced the partnership is moving forward on a plan to conserve the property. The plan includes permanent preservation of most of the parcel for public open space, possibly limited development on one corner, and several acres for CBF to establish a “green” environmental/education center in Hampton Roads.

Saved.

Pending successful feasibility studies and funding efforts, our hope is to create a center that will be a model for sustainable “green” building, foster CBF’s work in the region, provide new environmental education and restoration opportunities, and support local watershed groups and the local community.

“CBF is very excited to be part of this important and unique opportunity,” said Christy Everett, CBF Hampton Roads Director. “For some time, CBF has investigated the potential for creating a green environmental/education center for the Hampton Roads community. We are eager to celebrate and protect our waterways through an education center in Hampton Roads and by continuing good work with admirable partners strongly committed to protecting local water quality, such as Lynnhaven River NOW.”

This is all great news. The plan, however, isn’t a done deal yet, as the partners now must determine how to pay for the property.

In the meantime, a big round of applause goes to Virginia Beach for its willingness to preserve this significant green space, and to TPL for stepping in at a crucial time to save this threatened parcel.

If you agree, please take a moment to thank Virginia Beach officials and to celebrate what we trust will conclude with the permanent protection of this remarkable natural and community resource for the Hampton Roads region.

Isn't she lovely?