Norfolk, Virginia

Overview

Service was inaugurated over a new 7.4 mile light rail transit line in Norfolk, Virginia, on August 19th, 2011, that operates under the service name The Tide. Originally planned as a line that would connect downtown Norfolk with nearby Virginia Beach, the initial segment only operates from downtown Norfolk to a point at the city's edge where two major highways, I-64 and I-264 converge. Away from downtown the new line is built along a right-of-way that previously was part of the Norfolk and Western Railway, and this abandoned right-of-way continues another 15 or so miles into Virginia Beach.

Rolling stock consists of a fleet of nine Siemens S-70 articulated units, similar to cars used by the system in Charlotte, NC. While apparently equipped with multiple-unit capability, the system currently operates single units only as platform lengths would preclude longer trains. Rush hour headways are ten minutes, and each terminal of the 11-station line includes but a single stub-end track.

The success of this original line has prompted talk of expansion, on to Virginia Beach, south to Chesapeake and perhaps even west to the huge naval complex. When, or if, any such expansion might happen is anyone's guess. But Norfolk has joined the many American cities that now feature modern light rail transit.

Photo Gallery

Five Random Images
Image 143728 (209k, 1044x788) Photo by: Brian J. Cudahy	Image 145478 (281k, 1044x788) Photo by: Brian J. Cudahy Location: Civic Plaza	Image 145479 (248k, 1044x788) Photo by: Brian J. Cudahy Location: Fort Norfolk / Medical Center	Image 145480 (310k, 1044x788) Photo by: Brian J. Cudahy Location: Fort Norfolk / Medical Center	Image 145486 (303k, 1044x788) Photo by: Brian J. Cudahy Location: Civic Plaza