How Walkable Is Virginia Beach? (What to Know)

Welcome to our guide on the walkability of Virginia Beach! If you’re curious about exploring this beautiful coastal city on foot, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll discuss the factors affecting walkability in Virginia Beach and provide insights into pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, walkable areas, attractions, and the city’s walkability infrastructure. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding the walkability of Virginia Beach can help you make the most of your time here.

Key Takeaways:

• Virginia Beach is ranked as the 45th most walkable large city in the US, with a Walk Score of 33.
• Most errands in Virginia Beach require a car, indicating that the city is car-dependent.
• Factors affecting walkability in Virginia Beach include pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods and the availability of walking and biking infrastructure.
• While Virginia Beach may not score high in walkability overall, there are specific areas and attractions that offer a more walkable experience.
• Investments in walkability infrastructure aim to enhance the pedestrian experience and create a more vibrant city.

Factors Affecting Walkability in Virginia Beach

The walkability of Virginia Beach is influenced by various factors. Some neighborhoods in Virginia Beach have higher walk scores than others, indicating that they are more pedestrian-friendly. Additionally, the city has been working on improving walkability by creating more walking and biking infrastructure, such as shared use paths, bike lanes, and recreational routes. These efforts contribute to creating walkable cities and communities in Virginia Beach.

Walkable neighborhoods are essential for promoting an active and healthy lifestyle, reducing car dependency, and fostering community engagement. By creating safe and accessible walking and biking environments, Virginia Beach aims to enhance the overall quality of life for its residents and visitors.

“Walkability is an integral aspect of creating sustainable and livable communities. By prioritizing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, we are not only improving the physical and mental well-being of our citizens but also reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions,” says Mayor John D. Mooney.

The city’s commitment to walkability is evident through the ongoing implementation of various projects. Walkable communities not only promote a healthier lifestyle but also contribute to the environmental sustainability goals set by the city.

Walkability Infrastructure in Virginia Beach

The table above highlights the various types of walkability infrastructure currently available in Virginia Beach. With a total length of 78 miles, shared use paths provide pedestrians and cyclists with dedicated routes for safe and convenient travel. In addition, the city has 46 miles of bike lanes and 22 miles of recreational routes, further enhancing the walkability and accessibility of the area.

The city’s ongoing commitment to improving walkability and expanding the existing infrastructure demonstrates its dedication to creating walkable cities in Virginia Beach. These efforts not only benefit the community but also contribute to attracting visitors who value walkable communities and prioritize sustainable transportation options.

As shown in the image above, improving walkability in Virginia Beach involves creating pedestrian-friendly infrastructure such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes. These enhancements allow residents and visitors to navigate the city on foot or by bicycle, reducing the reliance on cars and creating a more environmentally friendly and healthier community.

Walkability Score for Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, although a beautiful city, has a walkability score of 33, indicating that it heavily relies on cars for daily errands and transportation. This score is determined by taking into consideration factors such as the proximity of amenities, ease of access to public transportation, and the safety of walking routes.

While the overall walkability score may be low, there are still areas and neighborhoods within Virginia Beach that offer a more pedestrian-friendly environment. These areas prioritize the needs of walkers, providing amenities and services within walking distance, and creating safe and enjoyable walking routes.

Even though the walkability score may not be as high as desired, it’s important to highlight the efforts being made towards making Virginia Beach a more walkable city. Initiatives such as improving pedestrian infrastructure and creating walkable communities contribute to enhancing the overall walkability experience for residents and visitors.

To illustrate the walkability score of Virginia Beach, here’s a table showcasing the scores of selected neighborhoods:

As seen in the table, certain neighborhoods in Virginia Beach have significantly higher walkability scores, indicating that they are more pedestrian-friendly. These areas offer a range of amenities and services that are easily accessible by foot, reducing the dependency on cars.

Pedestrian-Friendly Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is home to several pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods that offer a more walkable experience for residents and visitors. These neighborhoods have higher walk scores, indicating their focus on creating accessible and pedestrian-friendly environments.

One such neighborhood is Point O’Woods. Located near North Landing River, this community boasts a walk score of 55, making it one of the most pedestrian-friendly areas in Virginia Beach. Point O’Woods has sidewalks throughout the neighborhood, allowing residents to easily navigate on foot and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Another pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is Green Run. With a walk score of 51, Green Run offers amenities within walking distance, such as parks, schools, and shopping centers. The neighborhood features sidewalks and well-maintained streets, providing a safe and conducive environment for pedestrians.

Lake Smith Terrace is also worth mentioning as a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood in Virginia Beach. This community has a walk score of 49 and is known for its scenic lake views. Residents can take advantage of the walking paths around Lake Smith, promoting an active and walkable lifestyle.

These pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods in Virginia Beach demonstrate the city’s commitment to creating a more walkable and accessible environment for its residents. With amenities within walking distance and well-designed infrastructure, these neighborhoods offer convenience and encourage a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Walkable Areas in Virginia Beach

While Virginia Beach as a whole may not be considered highly walkable, there are specific areas within the city that offer a more walkable environment. The boardwalk, for example, is a popular attraction that provides a scenic and walkable area along the beach. Additionally, certain neighborhoods and communities, such as Point O’Woods and Green Run, offer a more walkable experience with amenities and services within walking distance.

When it comes to walkability, the boardwalk in Virginia Beach stands out as one of the city’s most iconic and pedestrian-friendly areas. Stretching for three miles along the oceanfront, the boardwalk offers a picturesque route for walking and biking. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the beach, browse through unique shops, and indulge in delicious seafood at the numerous restaurants and cafes lining the boardwalk.

Point O’Woods and Green Run are two examples of neighborhoods in Virginia Beach that prioritize walkability. Both areas feature well-designed sidewalks, pedestrian crosswalks, and traffic-calming measures, making it safer and more convenient for residents to walk to nearby parks, schools, and shopping centers. These neighborhoods also have a variety of recreational facilities and community amenities within walking distance, enhancing the overall livability and attractiveness for pedestrians.

It’s important to note that while these areas offer a more walkable experience, the city still has room for improvement in terms of walkability. However, efforts are underway to enhance walkability in Virginia Beach by expanding pedestrian infrastructure, increasing connectivity between neighborhoods, and promoting mixed-use development that encourages walking and cycling.

Walkable Areas in Virginia Beach:

These walkable areas in Virginia Beach provide residents and visitors with opportunities to enjoy a more active and convenient lifestyle. Whether strolling along the boardwalk or exploring the neighborhoods of Point O’Woods and Green Run, walking becomes a pleasurable and practical way to experience the city.

Walkable Attractions in Virginia Beach

When it comes to walkable attractions, Virginia Beach has a lot to offer. One of the highlights is the famous boardwalk, stretching for three miles along the oceanfront. This picturesque promenade provides the perfect setting for leisurely walks or bike rides. With its separate bike path, cyclists can enjoy the scenic views while exploring the area.

Along the boardwalk, visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of Virginia Beach. People-watch as locals and tourists alike stroll by, taking in the sights and sounds. The boardwalk is also lined with various shops and restaurants, offering a wide range of dining options and unique souvenirs.

A must-visit attraction along the boardwalk is the iconic bronze statue of King Neptune. This magnificent sculpture stands tall, symbolizing the city’s connection to the sea. It serves as a popular photo spot and a reminder of Virginia Beach’s rich coastal heritage.

Another walkable area worth exploring is Pacific Avenue, where you’ll find an array of restaurants offering delicious cuisines. From seafood to international flavors, there’s something for every palate. Take a stroll down the avenue and savor the mouthwatering dishes that Virginia Beach has to offer.

No visit to Virginia Beach would be complete without experiencing the walkable attractions along the boardwalk and Pacific Avenue. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk, a bike ride, or a chance to enjoy the vibrant coastal atmosphere, these areas offer something for everyone.

Walkability Infrastructure in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is committed to improving walkability in the city by investing in walkability infrastructure. The city has developed an extensive network of paved bike and pedestrian transportation routes, providing safer and more convenient options for walking and biking. With over 146 miles of pathways, Virginia Beach is dedicated to creating a pedestrian-friendly environment that encourages active transportation.

The walkability infrastructure in Virginia Beach includes:

This comprehensive infrastructure supports a more walkable and bike-friendly city, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the benefits of active transportation. Whether strolling along the scenic boardwalk or exploring the neighborhoods, the walkability infrastructure in Virginia Beach provides accessible and enjoyable pathways for pedestrians and cyclists.

Investing in walkability infrastructure not only enhances the pedestrian experience but also promotes a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. It reduces car dependency, lowers traffic congestion, and improves air quality. By prioritizing walkability, Virginia Beach is creating a more vibrant and livable city that values the well-being of its residents.

Benefits of Walkability in Virginia Beach

Walkability in Virginia Beach provides numerous benefits to both residents and visitors. Embracing a more pedestrian-friendly city promotes a healthier and more active lifestyle for individuals, encouraging them to incorporate walking into their daily routines. By reducing car dependency, walkability also contributes to a cleaner environment and helps alleviate traffic congestion in the city.

Walkability enhances the overall quality of life in Virginia Beach by providing opportunities for social interaction and community engagement. Walking-friendly neighborhoods and public spaces foster a sense of belonging and promote a vibrant community atmosphere. Residents can enjoy strolling to nearby amenities, such as parks, schools, restaurants, and shops, which strengthens the local economy and supports local businesses.

Furthermore, walkability in Virginia Beach has economic benefits, as it attracts tourists who can explore the city on foot. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic oceanfront boardwalk, experiencing the unique charm and attractions that Virginia Beach has to offer. Walking also allows tourists to discover hidden gems and interact with the local culture at their own pace, contributing to a memorable and authentic travel experience.

“Walkability transforms a city into a destination where residents and visitors alike can enjoy a more vibrant and livable environment.”

Investing in walkability is crucial for the continued growth and development of Virginia Beach. By prioritizing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, such as well-maintained sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes, the city can create an environment that encourages walking as a preferred mode of transportation. This not only improves the overall connectivity within the city but also promotes physical and mental well-being for residents of all ages.

Walkability is an essential component of creating a city that thrives both socially and economically. By embracing walkability, Virginia Beach can truly unlock its full potential as a dynamic and inviting destination.

Recommended Resources:

• “The Role of Walkability in Creating Sustainable Cities” – A comprehensive study on the positive impact of walkability in urban environments.
• “The Economic Benefits of Walkability” – An article highlighting the economic advantages of walkable cities and their potential for growth.

Conclusion

Despite not being as highly walkable as some other cities, Virginia Beach is making efforts to improve its walkability. By investing in infrastructure and creating pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, the city is taking steps towards a more walkable future. Although a car is still necessary for most errands, there are areas and attractions in Virginia Beach that offer a more walkable experience.

With over 146 miles of paved bike and pedestrian transportation routes, including shared use paths, protected bike lanes, side paths, and bike lanes, Virginia Beach is increasing its walkability infrastructure. These improvements aim to provide safer and more convenient options for walking and biking, enhancing the overall pedestrian experience.

Virginia Beach has the potential to become a more walkable city, benefiting both its residents and visitors. Walkability promotes a healthier and more active lifestyle, reduces car dependency, and contributes to a vibrant and livable community. By continuing to prioritize walkability initiatives, Virginia Beach can create a more accessible and enjoyable urban environment for everyone.