Wards Corner Civic League

We understand the inconvenience caused by blocked railroad crossings can be frustrating. In recent years, changes in rail operations and public perception have made this a nationwide issue. Transportation agencies from other states have raised these concerns with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

To understand the magnitude of the situation, the FRA has an online system that allows the public and law enforcement to report blocked crossings. This will also allow the federal government and states to determine the extent of the problem.

FRA Press Release on Blocked Crossing Website

If you encounter an issue related to a halted train obstructing roadways, please refer to the Federal Railroad Administration. 

Steps to Report a Blocked Crossing

This is easily and conveniently done using your smartphone while at the blocked crossing or at a later time using your smart device or computer. Be advised that the FRA system will NOT accept reports which are seven (7) days or older.

1. Report the Blocked Crossing to the Railroad: Contact the railroad using the toll-free number listed on the blue sign that is posted at the crossing. It will look like the one below.
   

2. Record Information: The City of Norfolk highly encourages you to file your blocked crossing complaint with the FRA immediately. Please record the following information for your complaint:
   • Train blocking crossing – or – Crossing lights/gates activated, but no train.
   • Date and time of blockage Duration of blockage
   • Any immediate impacts observed (i.e. first responders unable to cross tracks; pedestrians observed climbing over/under/through cars, etc.)
   • Any additional comments (i.e. school arrival/dismissal disrupted; postal or other deliveries delayed; fewer customers visiting business; traffic congestion/gridlock; etc.)

3.    File blocked crossing report with the FRA. 

Virginia Code

Blocked crossing complaints have increased in recent years as railroads are striving to reduce operating costs by increasing train lengths causing crossings to be blocked for a longer period of time. In some cases, trains need to stop due to disabled equipment, switching operations, safety protocols, etc.

Virginia Code prohibits a railroad from blocking a crossing for longer than five consecutive minutes. 

Unfortunately, within the last few years many federal courts have ruled that the Interstate Commerce Commission Termination Act of 1995 granted exclusive jurisdiction over the speed and movement of trains to the federal government. This federal preemption essentially makes the Virginia statute on this issue unenforceable. Keep in mind that Virginia is not the only state dealing with blocked crossings. This is a national problem and states are strongly requesting that the FRA develop regulations to address the issue. The FRA is the only government agency that could consider creating rules to address blocked crossings. Until federal rules are developed, Commission staff will forward blocked crossing complaints to the FRA for all public crossings in Norfolk and will work with railroads when there is an imminent safety hazard resulting from a blocked crossing. You may also report a blocked crossing utilizing the link above.

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The Slover Library Foundation is hosting a community coffee hour with Norfolk’s Chief of Police Mark Talbott. Join us for an exclusive opportunity to hear from Chief Talbott, the leader of Norfolk’s dedicated police force! This event is designed to strengthen community ties, promote open dialogue, and enhance collaboration between the downtown community and law enforcement.

Wednesday, Feb. 21
Doors Open at 7:45 AM – Program Begins at 8:15 AM
Slover Library, Room 650

What to Expect:

• Get to know Chief Talbot
• Learn about the latest initiatives and community-focused programs.
• Ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations.
• Connect with fellow community members.
• This event is catered with breakfast items and beverages.

Community coffee with Chief Mark Talbot is free and open to all community members. Your presence and participation are highly valued as we work together to build a safer and stronger Downtown Norfolk. For more information, contact Adale Martin at adale.martin@sloverlibrary.com.

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Motorists can expect multiple overnight ramp closures and new traffic patterns on I-64 east and west between Patrol Road and Tidewater Drive starting this week

NORFOLK – Starting this week, motorists traveling along I-64 east in Norfolk will encounter new traffic patterns between Patrol Road and Tidewater Drive (exit 277) as contractor crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) perform striping, barrier installation and additional construction activities for the Hampton Road Express Lanes (HREL) Norfolk Segment.

• Starting as early as Jan. 29, I-64 east traffic in this corridor will shift to the left toward the inside median.
• Starting as early as Tuesday, Feb. 6, I-64 west traffic between Tidewater Drive and Little Creek Road (exit 276) will shift to the left toward the inside median.

In preparation for this new traffic pattern, estimated to be in place until as early as early 2025, a series of temporary, overnight ramp closures are scheduled to occur along I-64 in this corridor.

The estimated schedule below includes various, temporary closures through Feb. 2:

• I-64 east on-ramp from Granby Street Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
• I-64 east off-ramp to I-564 west/Granby Street (exit 276A) Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, from as early as 7 p.m. to as late as 8 a.m.
• I-64 east on-ramp from Tidewater Drive south Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.
• I-64 east off-ramp to Tidewater Drive north (exit 277B) Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, from as early as 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
• I-64 east on-ramp from Tidewater Drive north Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.
• I-64 east on-ramp from Little Creek Road (brief, intermittent stoppages) Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, from 11:59 p.m. to 4 a.m.
• I-564 east ramp to I-64 east Jan. 30 to Feb. 1, from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. 

Signed detour routes will be in place to direct motorists and additional ramp closures will be announced as scheduled. This construction work is weather-and schedule-dependent; therefore, this schedule is subject to change.

Motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling near work zones, obey posted speed limits, follow lane markings and barrier guides, be alert to digital message signs and drive distraction-free.

Visit the project site to learn more about construction updates, traffic impacts and to sign-up to receive project updates:  https://64expresslanes.org/under_construction/norfolk.asp  

The HREL Norfolk Segment will ultimately become a part of the overall HREL network, a continuous, 45-mile network of Express Lanes in each traffic direction on I-64, from east of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News to the I-64/I-264/I-664 Bowers Hill Interchange in Chesapeake. The HREL network is designed to transport more motorists through the region while helping to alleviate congestion and providing motorists more travel options. 

Before traveling, check the latest traffic conditions by using VDOT’s free 511 mobile app, which offers information about road conditions, traffic, incidents, construction and congestion as well as access to traffic cameras, weather and more. Information is also available at 511Virginia.org or by calling 511 while in Virginia.

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Recover Fund is proud to announce the launch of the Norfolk Wealth Project, in collaboration with Cities for Financial Empowerment and supported by the City of Norfolk. This crucial initiative aims to address and reduce the racial wealth gap in our community. The project’s mission is to harness the collective wisdom and experience of Norfolk’s residents, community leaders, and experts to formulate effective strategies and solutions. The Norfolk Wealth Project is a transformative initiative dedicated to bridging the racial wealth gaps within the City of Norfolk, Virginia. Its mission is not just to identify the disparities but to actively forge pathways that facilitate intergenerational wealth and foster individual, family, and community financial stability.

• Recover Fund Leaders: Dr. Tim Goler & Dr. Ahmed Whitt
• For additional information, visit: https://norfolkwealthproject.org/
• Link to Norfolk Wealth Project survey: Norfolk Wealth Project Survey (typeform.com)

Deadline to complete the survey is February 29, 2024.

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Watch Those Turkey Fryers

Planning on frying a turkey this year? Keep these tips from Norfolk Fire-Rescue in mind this holiday season:

• Always make sure the turkey has defrosted.
• Keep fryers outside and away from flammable items.
• Make sure fryers are on a flat, stable surface.
• Don’t overfill the fryer!
• Turn off the gas before putting the turkey in.
• Never leave the fryer unattended.
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer.
• Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Keep Your Pets Safe!

Thanksgiving is all about food and family and it may be tempting to include our furry family members in the holiday feast, but some of the festive fixings can be harmful to pets.

• Turkey: A tiny bit of meat is ok but never give pets any leftover bones.
• Garlic, onion, leeks and chives: These can be toxic to dogs and cats so it’s best to avoid anything cooked with those ingredients.
• Desserts: Chocolate, raisins, currants and the popular sugar substitute Xylitol are toxic for dogs and cats.
• Trash: Secure trash cans so pets aren’t tempted to go after the scraps.

Some pet-friendly holiday treats include baby carrots, sweet potatoes, green beans and apples.

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From VDOT press release

Construction activities for the first phase of the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL) Norfolk Segment projects, designated as “Norfolk Segment 1A,” are scheduled to begin as early as Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023. The project is designed to provide a safe and more reliable travel option for motorists and help relieve congestion at key locations along Interstate 64 (I-64), spanning approximately 2 miles from Tidewater Drive (exit 277) to Patrol Road. 

As part of the $197.6 million design-build contract awarded to contractor Allan Myers, the project will convert the existing shoulder to a part-time shoulder Express Lane, which will run alongside the three existing general purpose lanes in each direction. This project also includes the widening and rehabilitation of five bridges, as well as the rehabilitation of three additional bridges within the project corridor. Once completed, the part-time shoulder Express Lane will operate in the opposite direction of the Reversible Roadway Express Lanes. In the mornings, motorists traveling westbound on I-64 will use the Reversible Roadway Express Lanes, while motorists traveling eastbound will use the part-time shoulder Express Lane. In the afternoons, the directional usage will reverse, with eastbound motorists using the Reversible Express Lanes and westbound motorists using the part-time shoulder Express Lane. Adding the part-time shoulder Express Lanes will provide a bidirectional Express Lane option, allowing motorists to experience the benefits of the Express Lanes 24 hours a day. 

During construction, motorists can expect scheduled lane closures, short- and long-term lane reductions and traffic shifts throughout the corridor. Shoulder strengthening along I-64 in both directions is estimated to begin as early as Oct. 15, with overnight single-lane closures. As early as this fall, a long-term continuous shoulder closure on the off-ramp from I-564 east to I-64 east is anticipated to begin, in addition to overnight, single-lane and shoulder closures planned in the I-64 Reversible Roadway Express Lanes. 

There are no plans to restrict access to I-564 at any time. 

All construction work is dependent upon weather conditions. The I-64 Hampton Roads Express Lanes Norfolk Segment 1A project is estimated to be completed in early 2026. The public is encouraged to sign up for project email updates and learn more about the project online at https://64expresslanes.org/under_construction/norfolk.asp to stay informed of construction activities and traffic impacts. 

Motorists should plan their drive with VDOT’s free traffic information tools:  

• Download the 511Virgina app.  
• Visit the 511Virginia website or dial 511 for traffic information on your phone. 

The HREL Norfolk Segment 1A will ultimately become a part of the overall HREL network, a continuous 46-mile network of Express Lanes in each traffic direction on I-64, from east of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News to the I-64/I-264/I-664 Bowers Hill interchange in Chesapeake. The HREL network is designed to transport more motorists through the region while helping to alleviate congestion and allowing motorists more travel options.  For more information on the rest of our Express Lanes Segments and how they will operate, please visit www.64expresslanes.org/drive.

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Clearing out some clutter ahead of the holiday season? Some items can’t be tossed in the garbage but you can dispose of it the right way at Keep Norfolk Beautiful’s Special Waste Collection event on November 4 from 9 a.m. to noon at Southside STEM Academy (1106 Campostella Road).

Accepted items include:

• Household Hazardous Waste
• Electronics
• Grocery Bags & Clear Film
• And much more!

This Special Waste Collection event also includes on-site, secure document shredding and a tree giveaway.

Please share this with neighbors, friends and colleagues. Norfolk residents only and proof of residency is required. 

For more information on acceptable items, visit www.norfolk.gov/knb.

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The Department of Utilities has seen a recent increase in customer questions and concerns related to their HRUBS bills. The following provides some background and plans to address customer questions moving forward.

Background:

• Rates for all City of Norfolk services on the combined utility bill, including water and wastewater, went through a regular annual increase in July (www.norfolk.gov/utrates).
• HRSD similarly increased their rates as part of their annual schedule (https://www.hrsd.com/sites/default/files/assets/Documents/pdfs/finance/RateSchedule/HRSD-FY2024RateSchedule.pdf).
• In the same month, we experienced inclement weather events and meter reader staffing shortages from our vendor, both resulting in longer billing periods (some as long as a 48-day cycle). This staffing shortage also impacted the neighboring cities of Virginia Beach and Suffolk.
• Historically, water usage is higher in the summer months (i.e., lawn watering, washing cars, pools, etc.)

Way Ahead:

• The Utilities meter reading contractor is working to stabilize the work force and get back to the normal billing schedule. Utilities staff is in communication with the contractor daily on these efforts.  In an effort to communicate with our customers, Utilities posted an advisory explaining this to the webpage www.norfolk.gov/5191/Question-About-My-Billon Friday, September 23^rd.
• The Utilities Department is working with Communications to share this information on social media and the information will also be shared with our customers on upcoming HRUBS bills. Customers can reach out to utilities customer service at (757) 664-6700 for more information, or they can visit www.norfolk.gov/5191/Question-About-My-Bill.
• In the long term, the Department of Utilities is improving operational efficiency, resiliency, and customer service through an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project for water meters. AMI enables the application of technologies, such as advanced meters and other sensors, to enable improved flow of information between customers and the City of Norfolk and to provide customers and the utility with data on water usage. With AMI, customers can better manage water usage and protect against high bills. The AMI project is funded in the CIP from FY24 – FY27.

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