HRT releases Tide VB route options

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - Hampton Roads Transit highlighted three proposals for light rail to expand from Norfolk to Virginia Beach.

Document: HRT expansion proposals

The first proposal would bypass the Hilltop area of the Beach. It would go straight from Town Center, through the old Norfolk Southern Railroad Right-of-way, past NAS Oceana and to the Oceanfront. 

The second option would take the line up to Laskin Road from Town Center, through Hilltop, then cut down Birdneck Road to the Oceanfront.

The last option would also go up Laskin Road, but would cut south down First Colonial Road and across to the Oceanfront. 

Bringing the line through Hilltop (the last two options) would require extensive construction. If the study introduced Tuesday is passed, it may also include a rapid bus service.

"What the study will do is talk about the cost and compare to ridership and benefits. If it's a viable project, then we'll go to the Federal Transportation Administration to see if it's willing to fund the project," Councilman John Uhrin said.

Council members hope to have a final environmental impact statement completed by next year.

Residents are welcome to attend the following community meetings, both of which are set to begin at 6 p.m. and end at 8 p.m.:

• Monday, Feb. 25 at Linkhorn Park Elementary School on First Colonial Road
• Thursday, Feb. 28 at the Eastern Shore Chapel Episcopal Church