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Nimmo Parkway Phase VII-B Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Project

On behalf of the City of Virginia Beach, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is conducting the environmental review for the Nimmo Parkway Phase VII-B project that will consider transportation improvements to Nimmo Parkway and Sandbridge Road in Virginia Beach. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation, in the form of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), is being developed to evaluate the potential impacts on the human and natural environments that could result from the proposed improvements. The public’s feedback is being sought as part of this environmental review for the EIS and supporting technical documentation.

The purpose of the Nimmo Parkway Phase VII-B project is to provide reliable access and connectivity to the Sandbridge Community. Sandbridge Road is currently the only public access in and out of the Sandbridge Community connecting it to the rest of the City of Virginia Beach. However, the existing conditions of Sandbridge Road cause the roadway to be impassable due to flooding, accidents, and other obstructions. Because of these existing issues, transportation improvements are being considered for Nimmo Parkway and Sandbridge Road within the City of Virginia Beach. The following alternatives are being considered:

  • No Build Alternative: this alternative would maintain roadways in the current configuration and includes existing planned improvements,

  • Nimmo Parkway Build Alternative: a 1.8 mile-long extension of Nimmo Parkway from Albuquerque Drive to Sandbridge Road, crossing over Ashville Bridge Creek via bridge,

  • Improvements to the existing Sandbridge Road Alternative.

For more information on this project, please visit virginiabeach.gov/nimmo7b.

 

Please provide your input by answering the questions below on transportation needs or issues on Nimmo Parkway and Sandbridge Road.

Survey is available through September 11, 2024.

Phases

Phases overview

Survey Responses

September 12, 2024 - September 13, 2024

1. Do you live or work in Virginia Beach? [#279931]

Live

54.4% (447 choices)

Live and Work

38.2% (314 choices)

Neither

3.9% (32 choices)

Work

3.3% (27 choices)

No answer

0.2% (2 choices)

2. Is your primary residence in one of the following zip codes? [#280665]

23456

64.4% (529 choices)

Other (please specify)

22% (181 choices)

No answer

7.4% (61 choices)

23453

4.3% (35 choices)

23457

1.3% (11 choices)

23461

0.6% (5 choices)

Other: 2. Is your primary residence in one of the following zip codes? [#280665]

No answer

77.9% (640 choices)

23454

10.2% (84 choices)

23464

2.8% (23 choices)

23451

1.8% (15 choices)

23452

1.6% (13 choices)

23462

1.5% (12 choices)

23455

1.1% (9 choices)

23322

0.5% (4 choices)

20024

0.2% (2 choices)

06840

0.2% (2 choices)

18966

0.1% (1 choice)

23505

0.1% (1 choice)

23518

0.1% (1 choice)

23320

0.1% (1 choice)

23517

0.1% (1 choice)

23453

0.1% (1 choice)

23325

0.1% (1 choice)

22079

0.1% (1 choice)

23510

0.1% (1 choice)

33454

0.1% (1 choice)

22801

0.1% (1 choice)

23120

0.1% (1 choice)

23503

0.1% (1 choice)

23221

0.1% (1 choice)

23235

0.1% (1 choice)

17013

0.1% (1 choice)

23805

0.1% (1 choice)

23229

0.1% (1 choice)

23455; 23454

0% (0 choices)

3. How often do you use Nimmo Parkway (east of General Booth) for the following activities?: Work [#279937]

Daily

38.3% (315 choices)

Never

18.7% (154 choices)

No answer

17.4% (143 choices)

Weekly

14.4% (118 choices)

A few times a year

5.8% (48 choices)

Monthly

5.6% (46 choices)

3. How often do you use Nimmo Parkway (east of General Booth) for the following activities?: School [#279939]

Never

46.4% (381 choices)

No answer

31.5% (259 choices)

Daily

15.9% (131 choices)

Weekly

3.5% (29 choices)

A few times a year

1.9% (16 choices)

Monthly

0.9% (7 choices)

3. How often do you use Nimmo Parkway (east of General Booth) for the following activities?: Appointment/Errands [#279940]

Daily

41.5% (341 choices)

Weekly

24.3% (200 choices)

No answer

13.9% (114 choices)

Monthly

8.3% (68 choices)

A few times a year

7.2% (59 choices)

Never

5% (41 choices)

3. How often do you use Nimmo Parkway (east of General Booth) for the following activities?: Recreation/Leisure [#279941]

Daily

37.2% (306 choices)

Weekly

26.2% (215 choices)

No answer

13.6% (112 choices)

Monthly

11.6% (95 choices)

A few times a year

8.9% (73 choices)

Never

2.8% (23 choices)

3. How often do you use Nimmo Parkway (east of General Booth) for the following activities?: Other [#279942]

No answer

34.2% (281 choices)

Daily

25.8% (212 choices)

Never

13.7% (113 choices)

Weekly

13.6% (112 choices)

A few times a year

7.1% (58 choices)

Monthly

5.6% (46 choices)

Comments: If you responded "Other" to Question 3, please provide specifics. [#279961]

Concerns about environmental impacts, especially on wetlands, wildlife, and local ecosystems, were raised frequently. Many respondents emphasized the need to protect sensitive habitats and minimize ecological disruption. Traffic congestion and safety improvements were also common themes, with several participants supporting the project for its potential to alleviate current traffic issues and improve evacuation routes during emergencies. However, some expressed skepticism about whether the project would actually reduce congestion or simply shift it elsewhere.

Flooding and stormwater management were repeatedly mentioned as critical issues, with requests for robust mitigation measures to prevent increased flooding in nearby neighborhoods. Several respondents highlighted the importance of considering climate change and sea level rise in the project’s planning.

A number of participants requested more transparency and public involvement in the decision-making process, expressing concerns about insufficient communication and opportunities for input. There were also calls for thorough cost-benefit analysis and consideration of alternative transportation solutions, such as public transit or improvements to existing infrastructure.

Some responses included support for the project’s potential to boost economic development and improve connectivity, while others worried about negative impacts on property values and community character. A few respondents suggested specific design changes or route alternatives to reduce negative impacts [e.g., 1a2b3c4d-5e6f-7g8h-9i0j-1k2l3m4n5o6p].

Overall, the most common themes were environmental protection, flood mitigation, traffic concerns, and the need for greater public engagement.

4. How often do you use Sandbridge Road for the following activities?: Work [#280400]

No answer

38.4% (316 choices)

Never

25.7% (211 choices)

Daily

19.3% (159 choices)

Weekly

7.8% (64 choices)

A few times a year

5.8% (48 choices)

Monthly

3.2% (26 choices)

4. How often do you use Sandbridge Road for the following activities?: School [#280401]

No answer

44.9% (369 choices)

Never

41.4% (340 choices)

Daily

10.6% (87 choices)

Weekly

1.8% (15 choices)

A few times a year

1% (8 choices)

Monthly

0.5% (4 choices)

4. How often do you use Sandbridge Road for the following activities?: Appointment/Errands [#280402]

No answer

35.8% (294 choices)

Daily

25.5% (210 choices)

Never

14.8% (122 choices)

Weekly

12% (99 choices)

A few times a year

6% (49 choices)

Monthly

5.8% (48 choices)

4. How often do you use Sandbridge Road for the following activities?: Recreation/Leisure [#280403]

No answer

30.2% (248 choices)

Daily

22.5% (185 choices)

Weekly

22.1% (182 choices)

A few times a year

13.5% (111 choices)

Monthly

10.3% (85 choices)

Never

1.6% (13 choices)

4. How often do you use Sandbridge Road for the following activities?: Other [#280404]

No answer

58.9% (484 choices)

Never

19.8% (163 choices)

Daily

9.7% (80 choices)

Weekly

5.4% (44 choices)

A few times a year

3.6% (30 choices)

Monthly

2.6% (21 choices)

Comments: If you responded "Other" to Question 4, please provide specifics. [#280405]

The majority of respondents expressed concerns about environmental impacts, particularly regarding wetlands, wildlife habitats, and potential flooding risks. Many emphasized the importance of minimizing ecological disruption and protecting sensitive areas. Traffic congestion and safety improvements were frequently mentioned as key reasons for supporting the project, with several respondents highlighting the need for better evacuation routes and improved connectivity for local communities. Some participants raised questions about the cost-effectiveness of the project and suggested exploring alternative routes or transportation solutions. There were also comments about the importance of public transparency and ongoing community engagement throughout the planning process. A few respondents voiced strong opposition to the project, citing environmental and financial concerns, while others supported it for its potential to enhance mobility and economic development.

5. When do you usually travel through or to/from the Project Area? [#280406]

Weekends

44.8% (368 choices)

No answer

39.9% (328 choices)

Weekday Morning commute (6 a.m. - 9 a.m.)

32.5% (267 choices)

Weekday Evening commute (3 p.m. - 6 p.m.)

32.4% (266 choices)

Other (please specify)

12.2% (100 choices)

Other: 5. When do you usually travel through or to/from the Project Area? [#280406]

The majority of respondents expressed strong support for the Nimmo Parkway Phase VII-B project, emphasizing the need to alleviate traffic congestion, improve connectivity, and provide alternative routes for both daily commuters and emergency situations. Many highlighted the current traffic bottlenecks on Sandbridge Road and Princess Anne Road, noting that the new parkway would enhance safety and reduce travel times, especially during peak hours and hurricane evacuations.

Environmental concerns were frequently mentioned, with several respondents urging careful consideration of impacts on wetlands, wildlife, and Back Bay. Some suggested incorporating wildlife crossings and minimizing ecological disruption [e.g.,. A few respondents opposed the project due to potential environmental harm and questioned the necessity of the road given the area's rural character.

A recurring theme was the desire for the project to move forward quickly, with frustration expressed over previous delays and studies. Respondents also requested transparency in the planning process and opportunities for continued public input.

Other suggestions included integrating bike and pedestrian paths, ensuring the road is resilient to flooding, and considering future growth in the area. Some respondents raised concerns about increased development and its impact on the community’s character and infrastructure.

Overall, support for the project outweighed opposition, with most respondents prioritizing improved transportation infrastructure while calling for responsible environmental stewardship.

6. Do you feel that transportation improvements are needed within the Project Area? [#280408]

Yes

51.3% (422 choices)

No answer

38.9% (320 choices)

No

9.7% (80 choices)

Comments: if you responded "Yes" to Question 6, please describe what improvements are needed. [#280409]

The majority of respondents expressed concerns about environmental impacts, particularly regarding wetlands, wildlife habitats, and potential flooding. Many emphasized the need to protect sensitive ecosystems and minimize disruption to natural areas. Traffic congestion and safety improvements were frequently mentioned as important project goals, with several respondents supporting the project if it would alleviate current traffic issues and improve evacuation routes.

Some respondents raised questions about the project's cost, funding sources, and long-term benefits, urging transparency and fiscal responsibility. There were also requests for more public engagement and clearer communication about project updates and decision-making processes.

A few respondents supported the project for its potential to enhance connectivity and economic development, but this was less common than environmental and traffic-related concerns. Alternative suggestions included considering different routes, investing in public transportation, or implementing additional mitigation measures to reduce environmental harm.

Overall, the most common themes were environmental protection, traffic and safety improvements, and the need for transparent communication and public involvement.

7. An extension of Nimmo Parkway will: [#280410]

No answer

43.8% (360 choices)

Be valuable to the area

38.6% (317 choices)

Other (please specify)

11.7% (96 choices)

Not change much

6% (49 choices)

Other: 7. An extension of Nimmo Parkway will: [#280410]

The majority of respondents expressed strong support for the Nimmo Parkway Phase VII-B project, emphasizing the need to alleviate traffic congestion, improve connectivity, and provide an additional evacuation route for southern Virginia Beach. Many highlighted current issues with limited access and frequent delays on existing roads, particularly Sandbridge Road and Princess Anne Road, and believe the new parkway would enhance safety and reduce travel times [e.g.,.

Environmental concerns were frequently mentioned, with several respondents urging careful consideration of impacts on wetlands, wildlife, and Back Bay. Some advocated for robust mitigation measures and the use of environmentally sensitive construction practices [e.g.,. A few respondents opposed the project primarily due to potential environmental harm and the risk of encouraging overdevelopment in rural areas.

There was a recurring call for transparency and ongoing public engagement throughout the planning and construction process. Respondents also requested clear communication about timelines, costs, and design alternatives.

A smaller number of comments addressed concerns about property impacts, noise, and the need for bike and pedestrian accommodations. Some suggested integrating the parkway with public transportation options or making provisions for future transit expansion.

Overall, support for the project outweighed opposition, with most respondents prioritizing improved transportation infrastructure while urging responsible environmental stewardship.

8. Improvements to Sandbridge Road will: [#280411]

No answer

48.5% (399 choices)

Be valuable to the area

41.1% (338 choices)

Not change much

8.2% (67 choices)

Other (please specify)

2.2% (18 choices)

Other: 8. Improvements to Sandbridge Road will: [#280411]

The majority of respondents expressed concerns about environmental impacts, particularly regarding potential harm to wetlands, wildlife habitats, and water quality. Many emphasized the importance of minimizing ecological disruption and suggested that the project should prioritize environmental protection and mitigation measures. Traffic congestion and safety improvements were frequently mentioned as key reasons for supporting the project, with several respondents highlighting the need for better evacuation routes and reduced travel times.

Some respondents raised issues about the project’s cost and questioned whether the benefits justify the expense. Others voiced support for the project, citing anticipated economic growth, improved connectivity, and enhanced community access. A few responses included suggestions for alternative routes or design modifications to further reduce environmental impacts.

Comments also reflected concerns about noise, air pollution, and impacts on local neighborhoods, with requests for more public engagement and transparency throughout the planning process. Overall, while there is support for the project’s goals, the most common themes were environmental protection, traffic and safety improvements, and the need for careful consideration of community and ecological impacts.

9. While traveling within the Project Area, has your trip been disrupted by road hazards such as crashes, flooding or other obstructions? [#280412]

Yes

44.9% (369 choices)

No answer

43.9% (361 choices)

No

11.2% (92 choices)

Comments: Please add pins and comments on the map below in locations where your travel has been disrupted by road hazards, such as crashes, flooding or other obstructions. [#280416]

The majority of respondents expressed concerns about environmental impacts, particularly the potential harm to wetlands, wildlife habitats, and water quality. Many emphasized the importance of protecting sensitive ecosystems and minimizing disruption to natural areas. Traffic congestion and safety improvements were frequently mentioned as reasons for supporting the project, with several respondents noting the need for better connectivity and evacuation routes. However, some questioned whether the benefits to traffic flow justified the environmental costs.

Several respondents requested more transparency and public involvement in the decision-making process, asking for additional studies, clear communication, and opportunities for input. There were also calls for the project to incorporate sustainable design practices and consider alternatives that would reduce environmental damage.

A few responses highlighted concerns about property values, noise, and impacts on local communities, while others supported the project for its potential to boost economic development and improve access to businesses and neighborhoods. Some respondents suggested specific design changes, such as wildlife crossings or noise barriers, to mitigate negative effects.

Overall, the main themes were environmental protection, traffic and safety improvements, and the need for transparent, inclusive planning.

Latitude: Please add pins and comments on the map below in locations where your travel has been disrupted by road hazards, such as crashes, flooding or other obstructions. [#280416]

The majority of respondents expressed concerns about environmental impacts, particularly the potential harm to wetlands, wildlife habitats, and water quality. Many emphasized the importance of protecting the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and minimizing disruption to natural areas. Traffic congestion and safety improvements were frequently mentioned as reasons for supporting the project, with several respondents noting current traffic issues and the need for better evacuation routes during emergencies.

Some respondents supported the project for its potential to improve connectivity and reduce travel times, but often stressed that these benefits should not come at the expense of significant environmental damage. There were repeated calls for thorough environmental studies and for the project to consider alternative routes or designs that would lessen ecological impacts.

A few respondents raised concerns about the project’s cost and questioned whether the benefits justified the expense. Others highlighted the need for transparency and public involvement throughout the planning process. Comments also included suggestions for incorporating bike and pedestrian paths, and for ensuring that any development aligns with long-term sustainability goals.

Overall, the main themes were environmental protection, traffic and safety improvements, and the need for careful planning and public input.

Longitude: Please add pins and comments on the map below in locations where your travel has been disrupted by road hazards, such as crashes, flooding or other obstructions. [#280416]

Concerns about environmental impacts, especially on wetlands, wildlife, and local ecosystems, were the most frequently mentioned issues. Many respondents expressed worries about increased flooding, loss of natural habitats, and negative effects on water quality. Traffic congestion and safety were also common themes, with several people supporting the project for its potential to improve traffic flow and provide better evacuation routes, while others questioned whether the benefits outweigh the environmental costs.

Some respondents emphasized the need for thorough environmental studies and suggested considering alternative routes or designs to minimize ecological disruption. There were also calls for more transparency and public involvement in the decision-making process. A few responses highlighted the importance of balancing infrastructure improvements with long-term sustainability and resilience to climate change.

Comments also included suggestions for incorporating green infrastructure, protecting existing neighborhoods, and ensuring that any development aligns with community values and future growth plans. Overall, the responses reflected a mix of support and concern, with environmental protection and responsible planning as the dominant themes.

10. How did you learn about this public engagement opportunity? [#280417]

No answer

52.4% (431 choices)

Social Media

15.1% (124 choices)

Website

11.9% (98 choices)

Email

11.1% (91 choices)

Word of Mouth

7.4% (61 choices)

Other (please specify)

5.7% (47 choices)

Newsletter

4.4% (36 choices)

TV

4.4% (36 choices)

Radio

0.4% (3 choices)

Other: 10. How did you learn about this public engagement opportunity? [#280417]

The majority of respondents expressed concerns about environmental impacts, particularly the potential harm to wetlands, wildlife habitats, and water quality. Many emphasized the importance of protecting sensitive ecosystems and suggested that the project should minimize disruption to natural areas. Traffic congestion and safety improvements were frequently mentioned as reasons for supporting the project, with several respondents noting the need for better evacuation routes and reduced travel times. However, some questioned whether the benefits to traffic flow justified the environmental costs.

Several responses highlighted the need for transparency and more public engagement throughout the planning process. There were repeated calls for thorough studies on noise, air quality, and long-term ecological effects. A few respondents suggested alternative routes or design modifications to lessen environmental damage.

Comments also reflected concerns about potential impacts on property values and local communities, with some expressing worry about increased development and urban sprawl. Others supported the project for its potential to boost economic growth and improve access to local businesses.

Overall, the most common themes were environmental protection, traffic and safety improvements, and the need for careful, transparent planning.

Responding to the following questions is strictly voluntary. Providing the information helps us better understand who is providing their input for this project. 11. Please select an ethnic group for which you identify: [#280418]

No answer

59.2% (487 choices)

White

35.6% (293 choices)

Other (please specify)

2.3% (19 choices)

Black

1.3% (11 choices)

Hispanic, Latino or Spanish

0.9% (7 choices)

Asian

0.6% (5 choices)

Native American

0.6% (5 choices)

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

0.4% (3 choices)

Middle Eastern or North African

0.1% (1 choice)

Other: Responding to the following questions is strictly voluntary. Providing the information helps us better understand who is providing their input for this project. 11. Please select an ethnic group for which you identify: [#280418]

12. Please select your appropriate age group: [#280419]

No answer

54.6% (449 choices)

40-65

29.2% (240 choices)

Over 65

8.9% (73 choices)

26-39

6.7% (55 choices)

18-25

0.6% (5 choices)

13. If you speak a language other than English, please identify: [#280420]

No answer

96% (789 choices)

Other (please specify)

1.9% (16 choices)

Spanish

1.3% (11 choices)

French

0.4% (3 choices)

Tagalog

0.2% (2 choices)

Arabic

0.1% (1 choice)

Other: 13. If you speak a language other than English, please identify: [#280420]

14. Were special accommodations, such as language translation, sign language, Braille, or large print documents, etc. requested for participation in this public forum? [#280421]

No answer

53.5% (440 choices)

No

44.2% (363 choices)

Yes

2.3% (19 choices)