Big Ideas
These big ideas emerged from conversations with City residents during focus group sessions.
Participants supplied input about how the themes could best support place types.
Broader public feedback on the big ideas is needed – please share your thoughts via the survey.
Big Idea #1: Enhance Natural Areas
The first Big Idea would enhance and permanently protect natural areas in the city, protecting land expected to be inundated by sea level rise.
Big Idea #2: Linear Park System
Big idea two would create a linear park system that forms nature-based connections for walking and biking between the city's many cherished tributaries.
Big Idea #3: Preserve Rural & Agricultural Lands
The third big idea would continue to preserve the rural and agricultural land in the southern part of the city.
Big Idea #4: Multimodal Corridors
Big idea four would transform the city’s major roads into multimodal corridors, where people could conveniently and safely walk, wheel and bike to nearby destinations, using innovative high-tech transit to reach destinations farther away.
Big Idea #5: Mixed Use and Walkable Centers
Big idea five would transform many of the city’s larger suburban shopping centers into mixed-use and walkable centers. People would connect with each other while strolling along attractive streets to shop, dine and see shows.
Big Idea #6: Enhance Community Centers
Big idea six would enhance existing and create new community centers, places where residents in nearby neighborhoods can gather to shop, recreate and enjoy each other’s company.
Big Idea #7: Neighborhood Walking & Biking
Big idea seven would create safe and convenient walking and biking connections from neighborhoods to other neighborhoods and to community centers.
Big Idea #8: Homes and Neighborhoods
Big idea eight focuses on homes: it would protect homes in existing neighborhoods from encroachment by higher intensity, non-residential development.
Big Idea #9: Innovative Businesses & Institutions
Big idea nine focuses on attracting innovative businesses and educational institutions with new ideas to help diversify the City’s economy.
Now we need to hear from you!
We need your feedback and insights on the big ideas for Virginia Beach created by residents during focus group meetings. The Big Ideas reflect bold steps the focus group participants think the city should take to reach their aspirations for the city.
Review the Big Ideas pages for a full description of what they include.
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