Norfolk, Va. – If you prefer to travel on two wheels in Norfolk, you’ll be excited about something new coming to the city.
Chad Dorsks' typical bike route could be getting a lot better.
“I've been waiting for something like this for a while,” says Dorsks.
He and the thousands of other Norfolk cyclists have a lot to look forward to if city council approves a 17-million dollar bike route plan to connect the city.
“It's a small investment for a community. This is a very community-oriented place, and if you want to have people who are active, what better way to do that than on bikes,” says Dorsks.
The proposal comes after the city held several meetings where bikers, runners, walkers, and drivers gave their two cents on where they'd like to see the paths.
The city took that information and came up with their plan.
If it does get approved, the plan will start with a test loop. It connects Colley, Olney, 35th and Llewellyn.
“I'd like to see everyone come out and use it, as many people as possible, so the demand signal is there. Once they see that, then perhaps we will extend it a little longer,” says Dorsks.
Extending it is the plan, assuming everything goes smoothly.
The city will work on getting grants for the other Norfolk routes that cross into Harbor Park, Ocean View, and near ODU.
“I think it's a great idea. I think it's an excellent idea for people who want to get out and get some exercise,” says a resident.
But city officials say it's not only for recreation, they're hoping to build a transportation network that could allow people to rely only on their bikes to get around the city.
That is something Dorsks is hoping will happen.
