Neighborhoods
The downtown district has an incredibly storied history and presence. Even as we redevelop, NRHA is committed to maintaining all that has made the St. Paul’s communities a vital lifeline for so many.
– Karen Rose, Interim Chief Housing Officer
See what events and news are happening in the St. Paul’s Communities
Increased Connectivity
Use the historical hydrology of the old creek, within a park setting, to manage floodwater and convert a flood-prone area into a dynamic open space for residents.
Complement this with a greener street grid that creates meaningful connections through a pattern of neighborhood blocks and streets for a more walkable/bikeable community.
Reconnect the community to the rest of the city with safer, signalized crossings at Tidewater Drive and St. Paul’s Boulevard.
Design Principles
The neighborhoods component of the CNI for the St. Paul’s area was shaped through an inclusive, community-driven process. A series of meetings with residents and local stakeholders provided a platform for individuals to share their ideas, concerns, and aspirations. From this collaborative engagement, a unified vision for the future of the St. Paul’s community emerged.
As a result, six core design principles were established to reflect the community’s priorities and values. These principles now serve as the foundation for the transformation and revitalization of the St. Paul’s area, ensuring that redevelopment efforts remain aligned with the residents’ vision.
Offer diverse housing types for a walkable, inclusive community.
Support top-tier, income-integrated schools and early learning programs.
Encourage job growth and investment with new office and retail.
Expand open spaces for health, recreation, and community events.
Rebuild a walkable street grid linking all neighborhood areas.
Revive Church Street as a civic and cultural center.
Key Strategies
The CNI plan furthers these principles through the investment in critical community improvements. The plan focuses on two key strategies for CNI funding:
- A central place that brings the community together through programs in arts, technology and business.
- Heritage-focused, resilient streetscape that honors the neighborhood’s African American heritage, highlighting local history and the contributions of African Americans to the cultural, educational and scientific enrichment of Norfolk.
As part of the housing development, a new community hub will be strategically integrated into the Freemason and Church Streets area. This central location is designed to foster increased community connection and interaction, serving as a vibrant gathering space for residents. In addition, heritage-focused streetscapes will be thoughtfully woven into the design of the new roadways and public spaces. These elements will celebrate the cultural identity of the St. Paul’s community while enhancing walkability, accessibility, and neighborhood cohesion within the reimagined urban landscape.
