The Tide Light Rail: Norfolk, VA

The citizens of the 7 cities of the Hampton Roads area would probably agree that it has come time for another form of transportation. In the history of the Hampton Roads area, as far back as we all can remember, this area has always been a car driven environment. The new light rail system in Norfolk, VA could have it’s pro’s and con’s but nevertheless, it is official by early 2010.



Pilot on Line reports: “The Tide” will begin moving passengers along a 7.4-mile route from Eastern Virginia Medical Center through downtown and along an existing freight rail corridor to Newtown Road at the Virginia Beach city line. It will have 11 stations and is projected to carry 7,130 to 11,400 passengers a day.

This is the short term plan for Phases One (red) and Two (brown) of a Norfolk monorail system. The light rail proposal is in green; more on that later. Outlined stations are proposed.

Most major city and states like New York, Washington D.C. and Houston have some form transportation other than personal automobiles or buses. Councilman W. Randy Wight who was the chairman of this project financially, technically and politically, is very excited to see this new wave of transportation unfold.







An interview with Pilots Debbie Messina, Councilman Wight stated “It’s hard to believe this day is here; I’m beside myself,” said Councilman W. Randy Wright, who shepherded it through technical, financial and political reviews for nearly a decade. “I’m almost speechless.”

Let’s hope “Riding The Tide” want cause any further traffic problems and decrease the amount of money the Hampton Roads citizens spend on gas.

“Ask About Me” Mike Lynk