The Ripple Effect: Restoration Begins Along the Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River

Construction on the Elizabeth River Wetland and Floodplain Restoration project, part of the Flood Protection Program, began in late January. Nearby residents and park users may notice increased activity at Carolanne Farms Neighborhood Park, as crews prepare the site and materials arrive.

Beginning in early March 2026, Carolanne Farms Neighborhood Park, including the kayak launch, will close for construction activities and remain closed for several months. A separate stormwater maintenance dredging project is underway at Turtle Lake, and crews are using the park as a construction access point.

In addition to Carolanne Farms Neighborhood Park, the project includes work on three other City-owned properties along the Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River:  

• Arrowhead Elementary School 
• Woods of Avalon Park 
• Ferry Point Park  

Using natural and nature-based features such as living shorelines, marsh restoration and ditch stabilization, the project is designed to reduce erosion, improve water quality, enhance habitat, and strengthen flood resilience along the Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River.

Project design and construction are fully funded under the Stormwater Green Infrastructure Master Project of the City’s Flood Protection Program. Additional support includes a $3 million Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation Community Flood Preparedness Fund grant.  

• Elizabeth River Wetland and Floodplain Restoration
• 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.