Plum Point Park | Norfolk, Virginia

Plum Point Park began life as an undeveloped, five-acre riverfront meadow containing a service path and several large trees. Although this site has been despoiled by numerous city construction projects, it remains an oasis surrounded by heavy industry. The park occupies a prominent point on the Elizabeth River adjacent to historic Fort Norfolk. The natural and scenic qualities of Plum Point offer respite from the noise and congestion of adjacent shipyards and traffic arteries. With magnificent views of the river from a park-like setting and access to the Elizabeth River Trail (a community pedestrian and bike path system), the City of Norfolk initiated plans to protect the natural character of the site by converting this once developable waterfront into a public park.

The project design provides an acre of new wetland mitigation, which is adjacent to an existing shoreline marsh. The landscape architects of WPL have designed Plum Point Park to celebrate the natural character of the site replete with wetland vegetation, estuarine wildlife, and a graceful, open meadow. Careful planning has ensured the restoration of the large open meadow, the retention of the mature interior trees, and the protection and enhancement of the perimeter vegetation. The master plan supports the restoration of wetlands through the use of a native plant palette while providing public education about the river and wetlands with interpretive signs. Carefully sited park amenities, such as a pedestrian/ bike path, bike racks, benches, and a park sign complete the design for Plum Point Park.