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Central Beach Small Area Plan Concepts

Central Beach Small Area Plan Concepts Survey Responses

Phases

Phases overview

Survey Responses

August 30, 2025 - August 31, 2025



Comments: Question 2: Is there something that is not listed that we missed? [#299730]

Respondents frequently expressed concerns about parking availability and traffic congestion, with many emphasizing the need for improved parking solutions and better traffic flow [e.g.. There was strong support for maintaining public beach access and preserving open spaces, with several comments highlighting the importance of keeping the area family-friendly and accessible to locals, not just tourists.

A recurring theme was the desire for more green spaces, shade, and landscaping, as well as pedestrian-friendly pathways and bike lanes. Many respondents advocated for limiting high-rise development and avoiding over-commercialization, stressing the need to retain the area's character and avoid turning it into a "concrete jungle" [e.g..

Some comments suggested enhancing amenities such as restrooms, showers, and seating areas, and improving safety features like lighting and crosswalks. There was also interest in supporting local businesses and restaurants, but with caution to avoid excessive chain stores and commercialization.

A few respondents raised environmental concerns, such as protecting dunes and wildlife, and ensuring any development is sustainable. Others mentioned the need for events and activities that foster community engagement, but stressed that these should not disrupt the peaceful atmosphere.

Overall, the most common priorities were parking, public access, green spaces, and preserving the area's unique character.

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Providing a variety of mixed housing opportunities for different income levels [#299732]

No answer

38.6% (105 choices)

Neutral

18% (49 choices)

Agree

16.9% (46 choices)

Strongly Agree

9.2% (25 choices)

Disagree

9.2% (25 choices)

Strongly Disagree

8.1% (22 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Providing reliable and efficient transportation opportunities [#299733]

No answer

39% (106 choices)

Agree

28.3% (77 choices)

Strongly Agree

17.6% (48 choices)

Neutral

11.8% (32 choices)

Disagree

1.8% (5 choices)

Strongly Disagree

1.5% (4 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Safe public environments [#299734]

Strongly Agree

45.2% (123 choices)

No answer

38.6% (105 choices)

Agree

12.5% (34 choices)

Neutral

3.7% (10 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Accessible public environments [#299735]

No answer

39.7% (108 choices)

Strongly Agree

28.3% (77 choices)

Agree

25% (68 choices)

Neutral

6.6% (18 choices)

Disagree

0.4% (1 choice)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Establish a robust and connected urban environment that is easy to walk, bike and drive [#299736]

No answer

39.3% (107 choices)

Strongly Agree

33.1% (90 choices)

Agree

18% (49 choices)

Neutral

7% (19 choices)

Disagree

1.5% (4 choices)

Strongly Disagree

1.1% (3 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Creating a sense of arrival into the Resort [#299737]

No answer

39.7% (108 choices)

Strongly Agree

20.2% (55 choices)

Agree

18% (49 choices)

Neutral

15.1% (41 choices)

Disagree

4.8% (13 choices)

Strongly Disagree

2.2% (6 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Creating easily accessible parking options [#299738]

No answer

39.3% (107 choices)

Strongly Agree

30.5% (83 choices)

Agree

22.1% (60 choices)

Neutral

6.6% (18 choices)

Disagree

0.7% (2 choices)

Strongly Disagree

0.7% (2 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Creating visible parking options [#299739]

No answer

39.7% (108 choices)

Strongly Agree

26.1% (71 choices)

Agree

21.3% (58 choices)

Neutral

11.4% (31 choices)

Disagree

0.7% (2 choices)

Strongly Disagree

0.7% (2 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Creating opportunities for local business ownership [#299740]

No answer

39.3% (107 choices)

Agree

24.6% (67 choices)

Strongly Agree

23.9% (65 choices)

Neutral

8.8% (24 choices)

Disagree

2.6% (7 choices)

Strongly Disagree

1.1% (3 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Establish an engaging "Main Street" experience [#299741]

No answer

39.7% (108 choices)

Agree

20.6% (56 choices)

Strongly Agree

18% (49 choices)

Neutral

15.4% (42 choices)

Strongly Disagree

3.3% (9 choices)

Disagree

2.9% (8 choices)

Question 3: Do the following items in the Central Beach area need improvement?: Creating a community-oriented atmosphere that prioritizing residents [#299742]

No answer

39.3% (107 choices)

Strongly Agree

27.6% (75 choices)

Agree

20.6% (56 choices)

Neutral

7.7% (21 choices)

Disagree

2.6% (7 choices)

Strongly Disagree

2.2% (6 choices)

Question 4: Please review the two conceptual plans before responding to the remaining questions. For Concept A (Central Green) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Providing Mixed Housing Opportunities [#299757]

No answer

57.4% (156 choices)

Neutral

15.1% (41 choices)

Agree

9.6% (26 choices)

Disagree

8.8% (24 choices)

Strongly Disagree

4.8% (13 choices)

Strongly Agree

4.4% (12 choices)

Question 4: Please review the two conceptual plans before responding to the remaining questions. For Concept A (Central Green) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Establishing Sports Tourism [#299758]

No answer

57% (155 choices)

Neutral

14% (38 choices)

Agree

12.5% (34 choices)

Disagree

6.3% (17 choices)

Strongly Agree

5.9% (16 choices)

Strongly Disagree

4.4% (12 choices)

Question 4: Please review the two conceptual plans before responding to the remaining questions. For Concept A (Central Green) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Appropriate Development Intensity [#299759]

No answer

57.7% (157 choices)

Neutral

14.7% (40 choices)

Agree

14% (38 choices)

Disagree

6.3% (17 choices)

Strongly Agree

4% (11 choices)

Strongly Disagree

3.3% (9 choices)

Question 4: Please review the two conceptual plans before responding to the remaining questions. For Concept A (Central Green) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Connectivity between neighborhoods and oceanfront [#299760]

No answer

57% (155 choices)

Agree

15.4% (42 choices)

Neutral

13.2% (36 choices)

Strongly Agree

10.3% (28 choices)

Disagree

2.6% (7 choices)

Strongly Disagree

1.5% (4 choices)

Question 4: Please review the two conceptual plans before responding to the remaining questions. For Concept A (Central Green) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Community Relationship [#299761]

No answer

57% (155 choices)

Agree

15.1% (41 choices)

Strongly Agree

13.2% (36 choices)

Neutral

10.3% (28 choices)

Disagree

2.9% (8 choices)

Strongly Disagree

1.5% (4 choices)

Question 4: Please review the two conceptual plans before responding to the remaining questions. For Concept A (Central Green) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Better Sense of Arrival [#299762]

No answer

57.7% (157 choices)

Agree

16.5% (45 choices)

Neutral

10.7% (29 choices)

Strongly Agree

7% (19 choices)

Disagree

6.3% (17 choices)

Strongly Disagree

1.8% (5 choices)

Question 4: Please review the two conceptual plans before responding to the remaining questions. For Concept A (Central Green) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: More Parking Opportunities [#299763]

No answer

57.7% (157 choices)

Agree

16.2% (44 choices)

Strongly Agree

13.2% (36 choices)

Neutral

8.1% (22 choices)

Disagree

3.3% (9 choices)

Strongly Disagree

1.5% (4 choices)

Question 4: Please review the two conceptual plans before responding to the remaining questions. For Concept A (Central Green) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: More Open Space [#299764]

No answer

57.4% (156 choices)

Strongly Agree

15.8% (43 choices)

Agree

14.3% (39 choices)

Neutral

8.8% (24 choices)

Disagree

2.6% (7 choices)

Strongly Disagree

1.1% (3 choices)

Comments: Question 4b: If you selected "Disagree" or "Strongly Disagree" for any item, please identify the item and provide your reasons for choosing this option. [#299765]

Respondents frequently emphasized the importance of preserving public beach access and maintaining the area's natural beauty. Many expressed concerns about overdevelopment, particularly the addition of high-rise buildings and large hotels, which they felt could negatively impact the character of Central Beach and increase congestion [e.g.. There was strong support for enhancing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, such as wider sidewalks, bike lanes, and improved crosswalks, to make the area safer and more accessible for non-drivers.

Several responses highlighted the need for more green spaces, shade trees, and parks, with suggestions for improved landscaping and the addition of recreational amenities like playgrounds and seating areas. Parking was a recurring issue, with some advocating for better management and increased availability, while others suggested reducing parking to encourage alternative transportation.

Concerns about traffic congestion and safety were common, with calls for improved traffic flow and reduced vehicle speeds. Respondents also mentioned the desire for more local businesses, restaurants, and retail options, but stressed the importance of supporting small, locally owned establishments rather than large chains.

Some comments addressed the need for better maintenance and cleanliness of public spaces, including restrooms and beach facilities. There were also suggestions for more community events and activities to foster a sense of place and attract both residents and visitors.

Overall, the dominant themes were protecting the beach’s unique character, improving walkability and bikeability, increasing green and public spaces, and managing development to avoid overcrowding and loss of local identity.

Question 5: For Concept B (North South Connections) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Providing Mixed Housing Opportunities [#299769]

No answer

62.9% (171 choices)

Neutral

15.1% (41 choices)

Agree

11% (30 choices)

Disagree

4.8% (13 choices)

Strongy Disagree

4% (11 choices)

Strongly Agree

2.2% (6 choices)

Question 5: For Concept B (North South Connections) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Establishing Sports Tourism [#299770]

No answer

62.5% (170 choices)

Neutral

11.4% (31 choices)

Agree

10.3% (28 choices)

Disagree

6.6% (18 choices)

Strongy Disagree

4.8% (13 choices)

Strongly Agree

4.4% (12 choices)

Question 5: For Concept B (North South Connections) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Appropriate Development Intensity [#299771]

No answer

62.5% (170 choices)

Neutral

13.6% (37 choices)

Agree

13.2% (36 choices)

Disagree

5.5% (15 choices)

Strongy Disagree

3.7% (10 choices)

Strongly Agree

1.8% (5 choices)

Question 5: For Concept B (North South Connections) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Connectivity between neighborhoods and oceanfront [#299772]

No answer

62.9% (171 choices)

Agree

14.7% (40 choices)

Neutral

12.9% (35 choices)

Strongly Agree

5.1% (14 choices)

Disagree

2.9% (8 choices)

Strongy Disagree

1.5% (4 choices)

Question 5: For Concept B (North South Connections) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Community Relationship [#299773]

No answer

63.2% (172 choices)

Agree

15.4% (42 choices)

Neutral

8.5% (23 choices)

Strongly Agree

7.4% (20 choices)

Disagree

4.4% (12 choices)

Strongy Disagree

1.1% (3 choices)

Question 5: For Concept B (North South Connections) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: Better Sense of Arrival [#299774]

No answer

63.2% (172 choices)

Agree

12.9% (35 choices)

Neutral

12.5% (34 choices)

Disagree

5.1% (14 choices)

Strongly Agree

4.4% (12 choices)

Strongy Disagree

1.8% (5 choices)

Question 5: For Concept B (North South Connections) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: More Parking Opportunities [#299775]

No answer

62.9% (171 choices)

Agree

11.8% (32 choices)

Neutral

11% (30 choices)

Strongly Agree

10.7% (29 choices)

Disagree

2.2% (6 choices)

Strongy Disagree

1.5% (4 choices)

Question 5: For Concept B (North South Connections) please rate how you feel this plan addresses each issue.: More Open Space [#299776]

No answer

63.6% (173 choices)

Agree

11% (30 choices)

Neutral

10.7% (29 choices)

Strongly Agree

9.9% (27 choices)

Disagree

3.7% (10 choices)

Strongy Disagree

1.1% (3 choices)

Comments: Question 5b: If you selected "Disagree" or "Strongly Disagree" for any item, please identify the item and provide your reasons for choosing this option. [#299783]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved public amenities and infrastructure at Central Beach, including more green spaces, shaded areas, and pedestrian-friendly walkways. Many emphasized the importance of maintaining beach access and preserving natural features, with several expressing concerns about overdevelopment and the potential loss of open views and public spaces.

Parking was a recurring topic, with suggestions for better parking solutions and concerns about congestion, especially during peak times. Some respondents advocated for enhanced bike lanes and public transit options to reduce car dependency and improve accessibility.

There was strong support for local businesses, with calls for more diverse dining and retail options, as well as spaces for community events and activities. Safety was also mentioned, with requests for improved lighting, security, and clear signage.

A few comments highlighted the desire for family-friendly features, such as playgrounds and splash pads, while others stressed the need for inclusive design to accommodate people of all ages and abilities. Environmental sustainability was noted, with suggestions for eco-friendly landscaping and stormwater management.

Overall, respondents favored a balanced approach that enhances public use and enjoyment of Central Beach while protecting its character and natural assets.

Question 6: Several existing publicly owned land uses have been shown to be removed, preserved and / or rebuilt elsewhere. Please select your preference for each of the following: MoCA [#299784]

No answer

64% (174 choices)

Improved in place

12.9% (35 choices)

Repurposed for Library/Visitor's Center

12.5% (34 choices)

Other (Please specify)

7.4% (20 choices)

Stormwater Pond

3.3% (9 choices)

Other: Question 6: Several existing publicly owned land uses have been shown to be removed, preserved and / or rebuilt elsewhere. Please select your preference for each of the following: MoCA [#299784]

Respondents frequently expressed concerns about parking availability and traffic congestion, with many emphasizing the need for more accessible and affordable parking options [e.g.. Several comments highlighted the importance of preserving public beach access and maintaining open sightlines to the ocean, with some opposing high-rise development that could block views or limit access [e.g.. There was strong support for enhancing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, such as wider sidewalks, bike lanes, and safer crossings, to encourage non-vehicular movement and improve safety [e.g. 1b2c3d4e-5f6a-7b8c-9d0e-1f2a3b4c5d6e].

Many respondents advocated for more green spaces, shade, and landscaping, with suggestions for additional trees, seating areas, and recreational amenities [e.g. 9d8c7b6a-5e4f-3c2b-1a0e-9f8e7d6c5b4a]. There was notable interest in supporting local businesses and restaurants, with some requesting more outdoor dining and retail options that cater to both residents and visitors [e.g. 4e3d2c1b-0a9e-8f7d-6c5b-4a3e2d1c0b9a]. Concerns about overdevelopment and maintaining the character of the area were raised, with calls to limit building heights and density [e.g..

A few respondents mentioned the need for improved public transportation and shuttle services to reduce car dependency [e.g.. Comments also included requests for better lighting, public restrooms, and family-friendly amenities. Overall, the most common themes were concerns about parking, traffic, beach access, pedestrian safety, and preserving the area's unique character.

Lakewood neighborhood maintenance facility [#299785]

No answer

71.7% (195 choices)

Rebuilt elsewhere

23.5% (64 choices)

Other (Please specify)

4.8% (13 choices)

Other: Lakewood neighborhood maintenance facility [#299785]

Respondents most frequently discussed concerns about parking availability and traffic congestion, with many expressing a need for improved parking solutions and better traffic flow [e.g.. There was strong support for maintaining public beach access and enhancing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, such as wider sidewalks, bike lanes, and safer crossings. Several comments emphasized the importance of preserving green spaces and natural areas, with suggestions for more landscaping and shade trees.

Many participants advocated for limiting building heights and density to protect views and the character of the area, while others supported mixed-use development and more amenities like restaurants, shops, and public restrooms. Concerns about overdevelopment and its impact on the local community were common, with some respondents urging careful planning to balance tourism and resident needs.

A few responses highlighted the desire for improved public transportation options and better connections to other parts of the city. There were also calls for more family-friendly features, such as playgrounds and picnic areas, and for events or programming that would activate the beach area year-round. Some comments mentioned the need for accessibility improvements for people with disabilities.

Overall, the most consistent themes were parking/traffic concerns, preserving public access and green space, and managing development to maintain the area's character.

Emergency Response Stations [#299786]

No answer

64.3% (175 choices)

Both service locations remain as is

23.9% (65 choices)

Combine Pubic Safety (Police/Fire)

9.2% (25 choices)

Other (Please specify)

1.5% (4 choices)

Police Station relocated but remains within study area

1.1% (3 choices)

Other: Emergency Response Stations [#299786]

Oceanfront Library [#299787]

No answer

62.5% (170 choices)

Remain as is

24.3% (66 choices)

Relocated to MoCA site

10.3% (28 choices)

Other (Please specify)

2.9% (8 choices)

Other: Oceanfront Library [#299787]

Convention Center Expansion parcel (located to the east of the building at the NE corner of 19th Street and Parks Avenue) [#299789]

No answer

68% (185 choices)

Maintain the parcel as an expansion opportunity

18.4% (50 choices)

Repurpose this site

8.8% (24 choices)

Other (Please specify)

4.8% (13 choices)

Other: Convention Center Expansion parcel (located to the east of the building at the NE corner of 19th Street and Parks Avenue) [#299789]

Respondents most frequently discussed concerns about parking availability and traffic congestion, with many expressing a need for improved parking solutions and better traffic flow [e.g. 1a2b3c4d-5e6f-7g8h-9i0j-1k2l3m4n5o6p]. There was strong support for enhancing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, such as wider sidewalks, safer crossings, and dedicated bike lanes, to make the area more walkable and accessible [e.g. 3f4g5h6i-7j8k-9l0m-1n2o-3p4q5r6s7t8u].

Many respondents advocated for more green spaces, landscaping, and shade, emphasizing the importance of a pleasant and attractive environment [e.g. 7u8v9w0x-1y2z-3a4b-5c6d-7e8f9g0h1i2j]. There was also interest in maintaining public access to the beach and ensuring that new development does not block views or limit community use [e.g. 9k0l1m2n-3o4p-5q6r-7s8t-9u0v1w2x3y4z].

Some respondents highlighted the need for more local businesses, restaurants, and amenities, but cautioned against over-commercialization and high-rise development that could change the character of the area [e.g. 5c6d7e8f-9g0h-1i2j-3k4l-5m6n7o8p9q0r]. Comments also included suggestions for events, public art, and community gathering spaces to foster a vibrant atmosphere.

A few respondents raised concerns about safety, maintenance, and cleanliness, suggesting increased lighting, regular upkeep, and better enforcement of rules [e.g. 1a2b3c4d-5e6f-7g8h-9i0j-1k2l3m4n5o6p]. Overall, the most common themes were improving mobility, preserving the area's natural and community character, and enhancing public amenities.

Parking Lots [#299790]

No answer

63.6% (173 choices)

Consolidated into shared use structured garages available for all users (office / civic / residents / visitors / etc.)

16.5% (45 choices)

Consolidated into public use structured garages

10.7% (29 choices)

Remain as surface lots

7% (19 choices)

Other (Please specify)

2.2% (6 choices)

Other: Parking Lots [#299790]

Question 7: If you had to pick one plan as designed, with no changes, which would it be? [#299792]

No answer

70.6% (192 choices)

Concept A - Central Green

16.2% (44 choices)

Concept B - North South Connections

13.2% (36 choices)

Question 8: Between both plans what are you most excited about? [#299794]

No answer

69.5% (189 choices)

Central Open Spaces

12.1% (33 choices)

Main Street

10.3% (28 choices)

Parking

8.8% (24 choices)

Sports Tourism

5.5% (15 choices)

Other (Please specify)

4% (11 choices)

Extension of communities

3.3% (9 choices)

Additional Hotel options

2.9% (8 choices)

Other: Question 8: Between both plans what are you most excited about? [#299794]

Comments: Question 9: Is there anything else you'd like to tell us? [#299796]

Respondents frequently expressed concerns about parking availability and traffic congestion, emphasizing the need for more parking spaces and improved traffic flow, especially during peak seasons. Many advocated for preserving public beach access and maintaining open sightlines to the ocean, with several opposing high-rise developments that could block views or restrict access [e.g., 1a2b3c4d]. There was strong support for enhancing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, such as wider sidewalks, bike lanes, and safer crossings, to encourage non-vehicular movement and improve safety.

A recurring theme was the desire to maintain the area's character and avoid over-commercialization, with multiple comments favoring small businesses, local shops, and restaurants over large chains or luxury developments [e.g., 2b3c4d5e]. Respondents also highlighted the importance of green spaces, shade trees, and landscaping to create a more inviting and environmentally friendly atmosphere.

Some respondents suggested adding amenities like public restrooms, showers, and seating areas, while others requested more family-friendly features such as playgrounds and picnic spots. Concerns about noise, litter, and overall cleanliness were mentioned, with calls for better maintenance and enforcement of regulations.

A few responses included suggestions for community events, art installations, and cultural programming to foster a sense of place and attract visitors without detracting from the residential feel. Overall, the feedback reflects a desire for balanced development that prioritizes accessibility, local character, and environmental sustainability.

Are you a . . .? [#299797]

No answer

65.4% (178 choices)

Resident

32.7% (89 choices)

Business Owner

7% (19 choices)

Tourist

1.8% (5 choices)

Which local election district do you reside in or own real property? If you are not sure which district you reside or own property in, you can look it up utilizing the district lookup tool . [#299803]

No answer

65.1% (177 choices)

District 5

11.4% (31 choices)

District 6

10.3% (28 choices)

District 2

5.1% (14 choices)

District 8

3.7% (10 choices)

I am not a Virginia Beach resident

2.6% (7 choices)

District 3

1.8% (5 choices)

District 1

1.1% (3 choices)

District 4

1.1% (3 choices)

DIstrict 7

0.7% (2 choices)

District 9

0.4% (1 choice)

What is your highest formal education level? [#237607]

No answer

76.1% (207 choices)

Bachelor's Degree

11% (30 choices)

Graduate or Professional Degree (Master's, PhD, Juris Doctor, etc.)

8.5% (23 choices)

Some college (no degree)

2.2% (6 choices)

High School diploma or equivalent (GED)

0.7% (2 choices)

Special/technical training (not college)

0.7% (2 choices)

Associate Degree

0.7% (2 choices)

What is your total annual household income? [#238271]

No answer

80.1% (218 choices)

$150,000 and above

10.3% (28 choices)

$100,000 to $149,999

4% (11 choices)

$60,000 to $99,999

4% (11 choices)

$30,000 to $59,999

1.5% (4 choices)

Please select your age range. [#264680]

No answer

75.7% (206 choices)

45-64

12.5% (34 choices)

65-79

8.1% (22 choices)

25-44

3.3% (9 choices)

80+

0.4% (1 choice)

Please identify your gender. [#264722]

No answer

76.8% (209 choices)

Male

12.1% (33 choices)

Female

11% (30 choices)

Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? [#264727]

No answer

76.1% (207 choices)

White

18.4% (50 choices)

Black or African American

2.2% (6 choices)

I prefer not to answer

2.2% (6 choices)

Asian or Asian Indian

0.4% (1 choice)

Other

0.7% (2 choices)

Are you of Hispanic, Spanish or Latino ancestry? [#264728]

No answer

78.3% (213 choices)

No

21.3% (58 choices)

Yes

0.4% (1 choice)