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Rudee Park Survey

In 2022, Virginia Beach residents expressed that the Rudee Loop site is best suited as a public open space. Now, we want to hear from you what specific features should be included in the design.

Take the survey below and help us write the Rudee Park story, together.

This survey closed Jan. 10, 2025.

Phases

Phases overview

Survey Results

August 30, 2024 - August 31, 2024

Survey Results

1. Do you park/utilize Rudee Loop now? [#174230]

Yes

82.7% (3,577 choices)

No

15.4% (665 choices)

No answer

1.9% (81 choices)

1a. For what purpose? Select all that apply. [#174232]

Access to the Boardwalk bike path/walking path

67.4% (2,915 choices)

Going to the beach

58.1% (2,513 choices)

Parking

44% (1,903 choices)

Grommet Island Park

31.1% (1,344 choices)

Surfing

24.1% (1,040 choices)

Fishing

16.4% (707 choices)

No answer

12.4% (534 choices)

Other

11.9% (514 choices)

Other: 1a. For what purpose? Select all that apply. [#174232]

Respondents most frequently expressed a desire for Rudee Park to remain a natural, green space, emphasizing the importance of preserving trees, wildlife, and open areas for relaxation and recreation. Many advocated for minimal development, with several specifically opposing large-scale commercial projects, parking lots, or high-rise buildings [e.g.. There was strong support for walking trails, bike paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, with some suggesting improvements to existing facilities and accessibility.

A number of comments highlighted the need for community-oriented features, such as dog parks, gardens, and spaces for local events. Concerns about safety, maintenance, and cleanliness were mentioned, with requests for better lighting and regular upkeep. Some respondents suggested educational signage about local ecology and history.

Water access was a recurring theme, with interest in kayak launches, fishing spots, and scenic viewpoints, but most respondents cautioned against overdevelopment along the waterfront. There were also calls for improved parking, but balanced with the desire to avoid paving over green space.

Overall, the dominant trend was a preference for low-impact, environmentally friendly enhancements that support passive recreation and community use, while protecting the park’s natural character.

2. How often do you the visit Rudee Loop section of the Oceanfront? Select one. [#174234]

A few times a month

27.3% (1,181 choices)

Every so often

23.6% (1,022 choices)

A few times a week

19.3% (833 choices)

Only seasonally

11.6% (503 choices)

Not very much

7.2% (311 choices)

Daily

6.4% (277 choices)

No answer

2.4% (103 choices)

Never

2.2% (96 choices)

3. What is the main draw/attraction you want to see at Rudee Loop. Select your top 3 options. [#174236]

Basketball Courts

2.5% (106 choices)

Residential

2.7% (118 choices)

Game Deck

4.3% (185 choices)

Surfboard Storage

4.3% (188 choices)

Hotel or Resort

4.5% (196 choices)

No answer

5.9% (257 choices)

Parking Garage

7.3% (317 choices)

Sculptural Alley

7.6% (330 choices)

Outdoor Showers

9.6% (414 choices)

Bike Racks

10.5% (453 choices)

Dog Park

11.3% (487 choices)

Skatepark

12.9% (556 choices)

Public Seating

13.8% (597 choices)

Stage & Plaza

19.4% (839 choices)

Shade Structure

20.7% (894 choices)

Playground

20.8% (899 choices)

Restrooms

29.4% (1,270 choices)

Green/Open Space

67.2% (2,906 choices)

Other

9.6% (415 choices)

Other: 3. What is the main draw/attraction you want to see at Rudee Loop. Select your top 3 options. [#174236]

Many respondents emphasized the importance of preserving green space and natural areas in Rudee Park, expressing concerns about overdevelopment and the loss of wildlife habitats. There was strong support for maintaining public access to the waterfront and ensuring the park remains open and welcoming to all, with several comments highlighting the need for walking trails, picnic areas, and spaces for families and children. Improved amenities such as restrooms, benches, and trash receptacles were frequently requested.

A significant number of participants voiced opposition to commercial development, such as hotels or private businesses, within the park, fearing it would detract from the community feel and natural beauty [e.g.. Some respondents suggested adding educational signage about local ecology and history, while others advocated for increased safety measures, including better lighting and regular patrols.

Water-related activities, such as kayaking and fishing, were mentioned positively, with suggestions to enhance access and facilities for these uses. Accessibility for people with disabilities was also noted as an area for improvement. A few comments expressed a desire for community events or farmers markets, but these were less common than calls to protect the park’s natural character. Overall, the dominant themes were conservation, public access, and resistance to commercial development.

4. What is the main thing you think does NOT belong at Rudee Loop. Select your top 3 options. [#174237]

Shade Structure

0.4% (16 choices)

Bike Racks

0.4% (19 choices)

Public Seating

0.9% (39 choices)

Green/Open Space

1.1% (48 choices)

Restrooms

1.2% (51 choices)

Playground

1.9% (84 choices)

Outdoor Showers

2.2% (93 choices)

Game Deck

2.7% (116 choices)

Surfboard Storage

2.9% (124 choices)

Sculptural Alley

4.1% (179 choices)

Stage & Plaza

5.8% (250 choices)

No answer

5.9% (254 choices)

Skatepark

9.3% (400 choices)

Dog Park

9.5% (412 choices)

Basketball Courts

14.5% (625 choices)

Restaurants/Retail

36% (1,558 choices)

Parking Garage

37.7% (1,631 choices)

Residential

55.2% (2,385 choices)

Hotel or Resort

78.2% (3,382 choices)

Other

1.1% (49 choices)

Other: 4. What is the main thing you think does NOT belong at Rudee Loop. Select your top 3 options. [#174237]

Respondents most frequently discussed the need for improved park amenities, such as restrooms, seating areas, and shaded spaces. Many emphasized the importance of maintaining natural beauty and preserving green spaces, with several expressing concerns about overdevelopment and loss of wildlife habitat [e.g.. Safety was a recurring theme, with requests for better lighting, increased security, and safer pathways. Accessibility for all ages and abilities was mentioned repeatedly, including calls for ADA-compliant features and easier access for families with children.

Waterfront access and activities were highlighted, with suggestions for kayak launches, fishing spots, and improved beach areas. Some respondents advocated for more community events and recreational opportunities, such as playgrounds, fitness stations, and dog-friendly zones. Concerns about parking availability and traffic flow were noted, along with requests for clear signage and wayfinding.

Several comments stressed the importance of community input in future planning and urged transparency in decision-making. There were also mentions of environmental sustainability, such as native plantings and eco-friendly infrastructure. Overall, the dominant trends were a desire for enhanced amenities, preservation of natural features, improved safety and accessibility, and thoughtful, community-driven development.

5. In your opinion, what is needed at the Resort Area? Select all that apply. [#174238]

Pedestrian-friendly environment

67.8% (2,930 choices)

Outdoor recreation space

64.7% (2,798 choices)

Lush landscape

51.6% (2,229 choices)

Beachgoer amenities like showers and restrooms

46.1% (1,995 choices)

Entertainment

30.8% (1,332 choices)

Public art

28.8% (1,244 choices)

More parking

28.2% (1,217 choices)

Shopping opportunities for specialty/boutique items

11.5% (495 choices)

Shopping opportunities for daily/weekly needs

9.2% (396 choices)

Luxury hotel/resort capacity

7.2% (312 choices)

No answer

5.9% (254 choices)

Affordable hotel/resort capacity

5.2% (224 choices)

Less parking

3.1% (135 choices)

6. Which proposal do you prefer? [#175052]

D. Multiple Large Parks, Fishing Pier, Playground, Food Truck Plaza

59.5% (2,571 choices)

B. Large Park with Multiple Uses and Surfing Museum

23.5% (1,018 choices)

No answer

7.1% (309 choices)

A. Mixed-use Development

5.9% (253 choices)

C. World Class Park with Multifamily Apartments and Parking Garage

4% (172 choices)

Comments: 6a. Tell us why. [#174239]

Respondents most frequently expressed a desire for Rudee Park to remain a natural, green space, emphasizing the importance of preserving trees, wildlife, and open areas for relaxation and recreation. Many advocated for minimal development, favoring walking trails, picnic areas, and spaces for passive activities over commercial or high-impact uses. Concerns about overdevelopment, parking, and increased traffic were common, with several respondents urging the city to avoid adding large structures or attractions that could disrupt the park’s tranquility [e.g..

A significant number of comments highlighted the need for improved maintenance, safety, and accessibility, including better lighting, clean facilities, and ADA-compliant paths. Some respondents suggested amenities like restrooms, benches, and water fountains, but stressed that these should blend into the natural environment.

There was notable support for community-oriented features such as playgrounds, dog parks, and spaces for local events, provided they do not detract from the park’s peaceful atmosphere. Environmental education opportunities and native plant gardens were also mentioned as desirable additions.

Overall, the dominant trend is a strong preference for conservation and low-impact improvements, with respondents urging decision-makers to prioritize nature, community, and sustainability in any future plans for Rudee Park.

Comments: 7. What other features would you include that were not listed for development of Rudee Loop? [#174242]

The most common themes among respondents are a strong desire to preserve green space and natural areas in Rudee Park, with many expressing concerns about overdevelopment and the loss of wildlife habitat. Many respondents want the park to remain a peaceful, natural retreat, emphasizing walking trails, native plants, and minimal commercial activity. There is significant support for improved maintenance, safety, and accessibility, including better lighting, clean restrooms, and paths suitable for all ages and abilities.

Several respondents mention the importance of water access for activities like kayaking and fishing, but caution against large-scale boating or motorized watercraft that could disrupt the environment. Playgrounds and family-friendly amenities are requested, but respondents generally prefer low-impact, nature-focused features over large structures or event spaces.

Parking is a recurring concern, with calls for adequate but unobtrusive parking solutions. Some respondents suggest educational signage about local ecology and history. There is limited support for food vendors or concessions, with most preferring to keep the park quiet and free from commercial clutter.

A few responses highlight the need for community input in future planning and stress the importance of balancing public use with conservation. Overall, the dominant sentiment is to protect the park’s natural character and avoid turning it into a heavily developed or commercialized space.

Comments: 8. Do you have any affiliation with local groups or are you representing a particular group (i.e. civic leagues, business associations, etc.)? [#174240]

Respondents most frequently expressed a desire for increased public access to Rudee Park, with many advocating for walking trails, green spaces, and waterfront views. Preservation of natural habitats and minimizing development were recurring themes, with several emphasizing the importance of protecting wildlife and maintaining open, undeveloped areas [e.g.. Concerns about over-commercialization and the impact of new construction on the environment and community character were common.

Many participants requested amenities such as benches, picnic areas, and playgrounds, while a few suggested community gardens or spaces for local events. Improved safety, cleanliness, and accessibility for all ages and abilities were also mentioned. Some respondents highlighted the need for better parking and bike paths, while others opposed any expansion of parking facilities, preferring to keep the area pedestrian-friendly.

Comments often included calls for transparent decision-making and opportunities for ongoing public input. There was general support for maintaining the park as a peaceful, natural retreat rather than turning it into a commercial or entertainment hub.

9. What is your age? [#174241]

36-45

18.7% (808 choices)

56-65

17.8% (769 choices)

No answer

15.6% (675 choices)

46-55

15.4% (665 choices)

26-35

13.5% (582 choices)

66-75

10.8% (466 choices)

18-25

3.5% (151 choices)

Over 75

2.8% (121 choices)

Prefer not to answer

1.6% (71 choices)

Under 18

0.3% (15 choices)

Comments: 10. What is the zip code where you live? [#174244]

No answer

27.2% (1,176 choices)

23451

26.6% (1,149 choices)

23454

10.8% (465 choices)

23456

8.7% (374 choices)

23452

7.3% (315 choices)

23455

5.1% (221 choices)

23464

4.7% (203 choices)

23462

3.8% (163 choices)

23453

2.6% (111 choices)

23320

0.7% (32 choices)

23457

0.6% (27 choices)

23322

0.3% (15 choices)

23505

0.2% (10 choices)

23323

0.2% (8 choices)

23518

0.1% (6 choices)

23503

0.1% (5 choices)

23510

0.1% (5 choices)

23325

0.1% (3 choices)

23523

0.1% (3 choices)

23507

0.1% (3 choices)

23435

0% (2 choices)

23461

0% (2 choices)

23703

0% (2 choices)

23463

0% (2 choices)

23111

0% (2 choices)

23602

0% (2 choices)

23517

0% (1 choice)

23464 I also own a rental at the oceanfront.

0% (1 choice)

23696

0% (1 choice)

23420

0% (1 choice)

23669 but grew up in zip code 23452

0% (1 choice)

24551

0% (1 choice)

23229

0% (1 choice)

23324

0% (1 choice)

23509

0% (1 choice)

27949

0% (1 choice)

22462

0% (1 choice)

23219

0% (1 choice)

23664

0% (1 choice)

15714

0% (1 choice)

44281

0% (1 choice)

23455-1674

0% (1 choice)

23060

0% (1 choice)

23457; 23456 not 23457

0% (0 choices)

2345-; 23451

0% (0 choices)

23452; 23451

0% (0 choices)

23454; 23455

0% (0 choices)

23455; 23454

0% (0 choices)