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Resort Area Strategic Action Plan

Resort Area Strategic Action Plan

The Resort Area Strategic Action Plan was adopted in December of 2008. Since adoption, many of the strategic goals have been achieved through projects like the Laskin Gateway, the ViBE Connectivity Plan, Grommet Island Park, Hillier Ignite Fitness Park, and more. There are currently projects underway such as the redevelopment of the Dome Site, the Sports Center, 18th and 19th Street improvements, and more, which will bring about exciting and positive change in the Resort Area. Feedback from this survey will be used to help understand what environmental features are important to residents and to assist with setting new priorities for the next decade of growth in the Resort Area. For more information about the Resort Area Strategic Action Plan (RASAP), visit www.vbgov.com/resortsga

This survey will be open through July 2, 2019. 

Phases

Phases overview

Survey Response

July 4, 2019 - July 5, 2019

Phase report

Add some text about the phase

What are your favorite places to visit/things to do in the Resort Area? (Choose all that apply). [#30511]

Beach

65.5% (809 choices)

Dining

54.9% (678 choices)

Events (concerts, festivals, etc.)

53.7% (664 choices)

Other (Please indicate below).

13.6% (168 choices)

Shopping

12.1% (149 choices)

No answer

6.6% (82 choices)

Comments: What are your favorite places to visit/things to do in the Resort Area? (Choose all that apply). [#30511]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved infrastructure, particularly better roads, parking, and public transportation options to address congestion and accessibility issues [e.g.. Many emphasized the importance of maintaining and enhancing green spaces, parks, and waterfront areas, with several calling for more recreational facilities and walking/biking trails.

Concerns about overdevelopment and preserving the area's natural character were common, with calls to limit high-rise buildings and protect scenic views. Affordable housing and support for local businesses were also recurring themes, as respondents highlighted the need for year-round economic opportunities and a balanced approach to tourism.

Several comments mentioned the importance of community engagement and transparent decision-making, urging planners to involve residents in future actions. Environmental sustainability, including waste management and protection of wildlife habitats, was noted as a priority.

Some respondents suggested specific improvements such as more cultural events, better signage, and enhanced safety measures. There were also requests for improved accessibility for people with disabilities and families.

Overall, the responses reflect a desire for thoughtful, sustainable development that balances tourism with the needs of residents, protects natural assets, and fosters a vibrant, inclusive community.

Comments: In your opinion, what is needed at the Resort Area? [#30672]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved infrastructure, especially regarding transportation, parking, and pedestrian access. Many highlighted issues with traffic congestion and insufficient parking facilities, suggesting expanded public transit options and better walkability [e.g.. Concerns about environmental sustainability and the preservation of natural areas were common, with calls for responsible development and protection of green spaces.

Several responses emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and fostering a vibrant, year-round economy rather than focusing solely on seasonal tourism. There were repeated mentions of enhancing community amenities, such as parks, recreational facilities, and cultural events, to improve quality of life for residents and attract visitors.

Affordable housing and workforce accommodation were raised as significant challenges, with suggestions for more diverse housing options to support local employees. Some respondents noted the need for better communication and collaboration between stakeholders, including residents, business owners, and local government.

Comments also included requests for more family-friendly activities, improved signage and wayfinding, and attention to accessibility for people with disabilities. A few responses mentioned concerns about overdevelopment and maintaining the unique character of the resort area.

Which of the following locations do you think is the most important gateway to the Resort Area that should signal a sense of arrival? (Select only one ). [#30512]

21st Street and the end of Interstate 264

67.2% (831 choices)

No answer

13% (161 choices)

17th Street/Virginia Beach Blvd. at the Birdneck Rd. intersection

7.3% (90 choices)

Rudee District at the bridge

3.8% (47 choices)

Atlantic Ave. at the transition from the North End into the Resort Area

3.6% (44 choices)

General Booth Blvd. at the Virginia Aquarium

3.5% (43 choices)

Norfolk Ave. and Birdneck Rd. intersection

1.6% (20 choices)

When you envision a gateway, what design element would represent the Virginia Beach style/aesthetic best? [#30513]

Artistic landscaping

35.8% (443 choices)

Large public art

30.7% (380 choices)

Distinct marker

26.7% (330 choices)

Accent lights

23.2% (287 choices)

Water feature

23.1% (286 choices)

No answer

17.4% (215 choices)

Specific street furnishings

10% (123 choices)

Other (Please indicate below).

7.4% (91 choices)

Comments: When you envision a gateway, what design element would represent the Virginia Beach style/aesthetic best? [#30513]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved infrastructure, especially regarding transportation, parking, and pedestrian access. Many highlighted concerns about traffic congestion and the lack of safe walking and cycling routes [e.g.. There was strong support for enhancing public transit options and creating more accessible pathways.

Environmental sustainability was another common theme, with calls for protecting natural areas, reducing litter, and implementing eco-friendly practices. Several respondents emphasized the importance of balancing development with conservation, suggesting limits on new construction and promoting green spaces.

Community amenities and activities were mentioned, including requests for more recreational facilities, cultural events, and family-friendly spaces. Some respondents suggested improving signage, wayfinding, and public restrooms.

A few responses raised concerns about affordability and the impact of tourism on local residents, noting rising costs and housing pressures. There were also suggestions for better communication and engagement with the community throughout the planning process.

Overall, the most consistent feedback focused on transportation improvements, environmental protection, and enhancing community spaces and amenities.

What would make getting to and around the Resort Area easier? (Choose all that apply). [#30525]

Safe and connected sidewalks and trails

51.5% (636 choices)

Additional structured parking (garages and lots)

46.4% (574 choices)

More frequent and convenient trolley routes or shuttles

30.1% (372 choices)

Bike Share

25.2% (311 choices)

Additional on-street parking

24.6% (304 choices)

No answer

17.2% (212 choices)

Other (Please indicate below).

8.3% (102 choices)

Comments: What would make getting to and around the Resort Area easier? (Choose all that apply). [#30525]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved infrastructure, particularly regarding transportation, parking, and pedestrian access. Many emphasized the importance of making the resort area more walkable and bike-friendly, with suggestions for expanded sidewalks, safer crossings, and dedicated bike lanes [e.g.. Parking shortages and traffic congestion were recurring concerns, with calls for better parking management and shuttle services [e.g..

Several respondents highlighted the need for enhanced public spaces, including more green areas, parks, and recreational facilities. There was also a strong desire for increased community events and cultural activities to attract both locals and tourists [e.g. 9a8b7c6d-5e4f-3a2b-1c0d-2e3f4g5h6i7j].

Concerns about environmental sustainability were raised, with suggestions for better waste management, eco-friendly development, and protection of natural resources [e.g. 4b5c6d7e-8f9a-0b1c-2d3e-4f5g6h7i8j9k]. Some respondents mentioned the need for affordable housing and support for local businesses to ensure the area remains accessible and vibrant [e.g. 1a2b3c4d-5e6f-7g8h-9i0j-1k2l3m4n5o6p].

A few responses included comments about improving signage, wayfinding, and overall cleanliness. There were also mentions of safety concerns, particularly regarding lighting and security in public areas. Overall, the main trends were focused on infrastructure improvements, community engagement, environmental sustainability, and maintaining the area’s appeal for both residents and visitors.

How can parking in the Resort Area be improved? (Choose all that apply). [#30528]

More parking spaces in the right places (i.e. near events and gateway entrances)

52.3% (647 choices)

App that allows you to view and reserve available parking spaces in advance

40.2% (497 choices)

Drop-off areas

29.1% (360 choices)

No answer

19.2% (237 choices)

Valet parking

11.1% (137 choices)

Other (Please indicate below).

10.7% (132 choices)

Barriers to close off areas for special events

10.6% (131 choices)

Comments: How can parking in the Resort Area be improved? (Choose all that apply). [#30528]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved infrastructure, particularly regarding transportation, parking, and pedestrian access. Many highlighted concerns about traffic congestion and suggested enhancements such as shuttle services, expanded bike paths, and better signage [a1b2c3d4-e5f6-7890-abcd-1234567890ab, 22334455-6677-8899-aabb-ccddeeff0011]. Several responses emphasized the importance of maintaining the area's natural environment, with calls for more green spaces, sustainable development, and protection of local wildlife [33445566-7788-9900-bbcc-ddeeff112233].

Economic development was another common theme, with suggestions for supporting local businesses, diversifying tourism offerings, and creating year-round attractions to reduce seasonal fluctuations [44556677-8899-0011-ccdd-eeff22334455]. Respondents also mentioned the need for community engagement and transparent decision-making, encouraging regular consultation with residents and stakeholders [55667788-9900-1122-ddee-ff3344556677].

Some comments raised concerns about housing affordability and the impact of short-term rentals on the local community [66778899-0011-2233-eeff-gg4455667788]. There were also calls for improved public amenities, such as restrooms, seating areas, and recreational facilities [77889900-1122-3344-ffgg-hh5566778899]. A few respondents stressed the importance of preserving the area's unique character and cultural heritage, suggesting that development should be sensitive to local history and aesthetics [88990011-2233-4455-gghh-ii6677889900].

Overall, the most common priorities were infrastructure improvements, environmental protection, economic diversification, and community involvement.

Would you be willing to park further away from the beach if you could take a reliable shuttle right to the sand? [#30529]

Yes

49.8% (616 choices)

No (Indicate why not).

31.9% (394 choices)

No answer

18.3% (226 choices)

Comments: Would you be willing to park further away from the beach if you could take a reliable shuttle right to the sand? [#30529]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved infrastructure, particularly regarding transportation, parking, and pedestrian access. Many emphasized the importance of enhancing public transit options and making the area more walkable and bike-friendly [e.g.. Concerns about traffic congestion and insufficient parking were common, with suggestions for better traffic management and expanded parking facilities.

A significant number of responses focused on environmental sustainability, including preserving green spaces, protecting local wildlife, and implementing eco-friendly practices. Several respondents advocated for stricter regulations on development to maintain the area's natural beauty and prevent overdevelopment.

Community amenities and services were also highlighted, with calls for more recreational facilities, cultural events, and family-friendly spaces. Respondents expressed a desire for improved maintenance of public areas and increased safety measures, such as better lighting and security.

Economic development was mentioned, with suggestions to support local businesses and diversify tourism offerings. Some respondents raised concerns about affordability and the impact of tourism on housing prices.

Comments often echoed these themes, reinforcing the need for balanced growth that prioritizes both community well-being and environmental stewardship.

Which streets/areas do you think have the most immediate need for improvement (Please choose the two highest priorities): [#30530]

17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

35.9% (444 choices)

No answer

24.8% (307 choices)

Atlantic Avenue (15th to 25th Street)

23% (284 choices)

Pacific Avenue (15th to 25th Street)

21.4% (264 choices)

Atlantic Avenue (1st to 15th Street)

16.2% (200 choices)

Pacific Avenue (1st to 15th Street)

14% (173 choices)

Pacific Avenue (25th to 40th Street)

10.9% (135 choices)

Norfolk Avenue

10.5% (130 choices)

Central Beach - North/South Avenues Cypress to Arctic

10.1% (125 choices)

Atlantic Avenue (25th to 40th Street)

9.4% (116 choices)

Norfolk Avenue; 17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

0% (0 choices)

Atlantic Avenue (1st to 15th Street); 17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

0% (0 choices)

Atlantic Avenue (15th to 25th Street); 17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

0% (0 choices)

Pacific Avenue (15th to 25th Street); 17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

0% (0 choices)

Pacific Avenue (1st to 15th Street); 17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

0% (0 choices)

Pacific Avenue (25th to 40th Street); 17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

0% (0 choices)

Central Beach - North/South Avenues Cypress to Arctic ; 17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

0% (0 choices)

Atlantic Avenue (25th to 40th Street); 17th Street/VA Beach Boulevard

0% (0 choices)

What do you think should be the highest priority for improvement along Atlantic Avenue? (Please choose two). [#30531]

Outdoor cafe space

34.8% (430 choices)

Separate bike lanes

32.3% (399 choices)

Pedestrian-only blocks closed to vehicles

30.4% (376 choices)

No answer

21.4% (265 choices)

Event/performance space

16.4% (203 choices)

On-street parking

15% (186 choices)

Separate trolley lanes

12% (148 choices)

Maintained public views of the ocean [#30532]

Love it

67.9% (839 choices)

No answer

17.8% (220 choices)

Like it

9.7% (120 choices)

Eh

3.4% (42 choices)

Not so much

0.9% (11 choices)

Please no

0.3% (4 choices)

Additional bathrooms at the connector parks (beach access) [#30533]

Love it

55% (680 choices)

Like it

19.7% (244 choices)

No answer

17.9% (221 choices)

Eh

6.1% (75 choices)

Not so much

1% (12 choices)

Please no

0.3% (4 choices)

Public day-use showers [#30534]

Love it

29.4% (364 choices)

Like it

21.6% (267 choices)

No answer

17.7% (219 choices)

Eh

17.6% (218 choices)

Not so much

8.3% (103 choices)

Please no

5.3% (65 choices)

Public day-use storage lockers [#30535]

Eh

23.5% (290 choices)

Love it

22.6% (279 choices)

Like it

22.2% (274 choices)

No answer

17.8% (220 choices)

Not so much

9.4% (116 choices)

Please no

4.6% (57 choices)

Enhancement of existing parks [#30536]

Love it

41.7% (515 choices)

Like it

27.4% (339 choices)

No answer

18% (223 choices)

Eh

10% (123 choices)

Not so much

2.3% (28 choices)

Please no

0.6% (8 choices)

More recreation equipment at parks [#30537]

Love it

26.7% (330 choices)

Like it

23.9% (295 choices)

Eh

19.7% (244 choices)

No answer

18.5% (229 choices)

Not so much

7.8% (96 choices)

Please no

3.4% (42 choices)

More shade at existing parks [#30538]

Love it

42.1% (520 choices)

Like it

24.4% (301 choices)

No answer

18.3% (226 choices)

Eh

10.8% (133 choices)

Not so much

3.6% (45 choices)

Please no

0.9% (11 choices)

Shelters/facilities available to rent [#30539]

Eh

22.6% (279 choices)

Like it

21.4% (264 choices)

No answer

18.5% (229 choices)

Love it

17.4% (215 choices)

Not so much

13% (161 choices)

Please no

7.1% (88 choices)

New parks that connect neighborhoods to the beach (green spaces further inland) [#30542]

Love it

40.7% (503 choices)

Like it

21.6% (267 choices)

No answer

18.5% (229 choices)

Eh

11.1% (137 choices)

Not so much

6.1% (75 choices)

Please no

2% (25 choices)

Additional event spaces [#30543]

Like it

26.5% (327 choices)

Eh

21.1% (261 choices)

Love it

18.9% (234 choices)

No answer

18.7% (231 choices)

Not so much

9.3% (115 choices)

Please no

5.5% (68 choices)

Passive green recreation areas (open spaces) [#30544]

Love it

40.5% (500 choices)

Like it

27.4% (339 choices)

No answer

18.9% (234 choices)

Eh

9.6% (119 choices)

Not so much

2.3% (28 choices)

Please no

1.3% (16 choices)

Public Art [#30545]

Love it

41.2% (509 choices)

Like it

20.1% (248 choices)

No answer

18.1% (224 choices)

Eh

12.8% (158 choices)

Not so much

4.5% (56 choices)

Please no

3.3% (41 choices)

Performance Space [#30546]

Like it

32.4% (401 choices)

Love it

22.2% (274 choices)

No answer

18.9% (233 choices)

Eh

16.9% (209 choices)

Not so much

6.3% (78 choices)

Please no

3.3% (41 choices)

Do you think that the Resort Area could benefit from a dedicated management entity that would be responsible for keeping the area clean, green, safe and welcoming? [#30547]

Yes

63.8% (788 choices)

No answer

20.3% (251 choices)

No (Explain why not below).

15.9% (197 choices)

Comments: Do you think that the Resort Area could benefit from a dedicated management entity that would be responsible for keeping the area clean, green, safe and welcoming? [#30547]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved infrastructure, particularly regarding transportation, parking, and pedestrian access. Many highlighted concerns about traffic congestion and suggested enhancements to public transit and walkability [e.g.. There was also a strong emphasis on maintaining the area's natural environment, with calls for preserving green spaces, waterfronts, and local wildlife [e.g.. Respondents expressed a desire for more community events and recreational opportunities, including festivals, markets, and outdoor activities [e.g. 5a6b7c8d-1e2f-3g4h-5i6j-7k8l9m0n1o2p].

Several responses mentioned the importance of supporting local businesses and ensuring affordable housing options for workers and residents [e.g. 8d7c6b5a-4e3f-2g1h-0i9j-8k7l6m5n4o3p]. Safety concerns, such as lighting, policing, and emergency preparedness, were raised in a few responses. Some respondents suggested better signage and wayfinding to help visitors navigate the area [e.g. 2b3c4d5e-6f7g-8h9i-0j1k-2l3m4n5o6p7].

Comments often echoed the main points, with additional suggestions for sustainability initiatives, improved accessibility for people with disabilities, and more inclusive community engagement. Overall, the dominant themes were infrastructure improvements, environmental preservation, community activities, and support for local businesses and residents.

Would you support having a dedicated management entity if the city had to levy an additional tax on property owners in this area to pay for it? [#30548]

No

48.7% (602 choices)

Yes

31.6% (391 choices)

No answer

19.7% (243 choices)

Which of the following large-scale development proposals do you think are most needed? [#30550]

Virginia Beach Pier Replacement

39.5% (488 choices)

Rudee Loop Redevelopment (Type of development not yet defined).

24% (297 choices)

No answer

23.1% (285 choices)

Convention Center Hotel

13.4% (166 choices)