The Ripple Effect: Building a Stronger, Greener Shoreline at the Elizabeth River

The Elizabeth River Wetland and Floodplain Restoration Project is progressing steadily, bringing long‑term benefits to nearby neighborhoods, local parks and the river’s ecosystem. Currently, installation of upland shoreline protection is underway along the northern side of the river, and trail restoration at Arrowhead Elementary will begin mid-June, after school is out. This Flood Protection Program project is expected to finish in early November 2026. 

Why This Project Matters for Residents 

The project area is at risk for flooding from storm surge and heavy rainfall; in fact, during storm events, the elevation of the river can increase by several feet. By restoring wetlands and stabilizing the shoreline, this project provides natural protection helping buffer neighborhoods during major storms. 

Key benefits include: 

• Better protection and restoration of critical floodplain and wetland areas 
• Stronger, more natural shorelines that reduce erosion 
• Improved drainage and water flow 
• Healthier habitats for fish, birds and wildlife 
• Long‑term resilience as sea levels rise 

Environmental Improvements That Make a Difference

Wetlands along the Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River have been slowly disappearing over the past several decades. This project aims to reverse that trend by rebuilding natural buffers and strengthening shoreline areas. 

Major environmental improvements include: 

• Restoring tidal marshes that filter pollutants and absorb stormwater 
• Reconnecting the river with its floodplain to improve habitat 
• Creating living shorelines that grow stronger over time 
• Stabilizing stormwater ditches to protect restored marsh areas 

Together, these efforts support a healthier river system while improving flood resilience for the community. 

Temporary Park Impacts 

To complete construction safely, some park areas require temporary closures. These include: 

• Carolanne Farms Neighborhood Park closed March 17 and will remain closed for several months. 
• Woods of Avalon Park will be fully closed from mid‑April through July, with short-term closures during other work phases. 
• Ferry Point Park will be fully closed mid‑September through mid‑October, with additional temporary work‑day closures. 

The City will continue to share park updates as progress continues on the project website. 

Looking Ahead 

This is the first major project advancing under the Sea Level Wise Elizabeth River “Adaptation Vision." When complete, the restored shoreline and marshes will provide long‑lasting environmental benefits and stronger flood protection for the community. 

• Elizabeth River Wetland and Floodplain Restoration Project
• Ripple Effect

The Virginia Beach Flood Protection Program — The Ripple Effect — is a comprehensive 10-year plan to address recurrent flooding in Virginia Beach. In November 2021, Virginia Beach voters overwhelmingly supported a resiliency package for several key flood protection initiatives to include drainage improvements, tide gates, pump stations and flood barriers throughout the city. The projects are led by Public Works with support from a community oversight board for transparency and accountability. Learn more at VirginiaBeach.gov/RippleEffect.