Welcome to the Virginia Beach Transit Extension Study

Virginia Beach

HRT is currently conducting the Virginia Beach Transit Extension Study (VBTES) to examine the potential extension of The Tide light rail transit system in Norfolk to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Once completed, the VBTES will identify:

  • Which mode of transportation will be used in the project corridor:
    • Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) – seats up to 80 passengers; can operate in mixed traffic or on a separate guideway, or
    • Light Rail Transit (LRT) – electronic powered vehicles; 160 passengers per vehicle; separate guideway or in-street running.
  • Station locations, park and ride locations, and supporting bus services
  • Potential elevated and at-grade stations and crossings
  • Ridership estimates
  • Preliminary capital and operating costs

Important Information about the VBTES:

  • The project corridor consists of the 10.8-mile inactive Norfolk Southern right-of-way, which stretches from Newtown Road to Birdneck Road. Connections from Birdneck Road to the Virginia Beach Convention Center and Oceanfront will be examined.
  • Nine stations anticipated in the following areas: Witchduck Road, Town Center, Lynnshores/Thalia, Lynnhaven Parkway, Great Neck/London Bridge, Oceana, Birdneck Road, Virginia Beach Convention Center, and the Oceanfront.
  • Supports the City of Virginia Beach’s Comprehensive Plan and Strategic Growth Areas (SGAs)
  • Expected to be completed in Fall 2011.

Project Goals

  • Improve access, operations and reliability of the public transportation system
  • Provide a cost-effective, efficient travel option that connects residential and employment areas as well as recreational venues
  • Implement service that helps manage growth in vehicle miles traveled and supports the development of sustainable and livable communities
  • Support Virginia Beach economic development activities consistent with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and related land use strategies
  • Support the tourism industry of Virginia Beach and the Hampton Roads region by providing an alternative to travel on congested roadways
  • Support preservation and protection of the environment

This webpage will provide the most up-to-date information on the VBTES so be sure to check back frequently for the very latest. HRT welcomes your input on the VBTES.