The City of Norfolk undertook developing a living shoreline along two separate reaches in Colley Bay along the Lafayette River to enhance the function of natural ecosystems, and provide waterfront access and educational opportunities for the public in this residential neighborhood. Approximately 1,100 linear feet of shoreline with denuded marsh habitats, moderate shoreline erosion, extensive concrete debris deposition, invasive species encroachment, tidal marsh subsidence, narrow riparian buffers, and upland storm water management issues were addressed. The improvements were designed around the City’s planning for a future public pier and walking path around Colley Bay.
Design included wetland restoration and enhancement for both low and high tidal marsh habitats, using rip-rap sills and coir fiber logs for marsh toe stabilization. Pocket beaches allow public access for recreation. The design also included landscaping in adjacent uplands for riparian buffer restoration, per the requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act. Clark Nexsen, partnered with BayLand Consultants and Designers of Hanover, Maryland, provided the necessary support documents for the City of Norfolk to be successful in securing a grant to fund a portion of the North Shore restoration.
Awards
2014 APWA Mid-Atlantic Honorable Mention – Environmental Under $5M
2014 ACEC Virginia Engineering Excellence Honor Award