Bike Norfolk sent questions to all Mayoral, City Council, and School Board candidates. Bike Norfolk is a nonpartisan group committed to passing on the information without endorsing candidates.
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Jump to see a specific candidate’s response:
Giovanni Dolmo, Mayor
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Norfolk City Council adopted a Vision Zero policy. There is money set aside for supporting Vision Zero initiatives. Please describe a specific action that you would initiate, lead, or support to help eliminate deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists.
I will commit to implementing a policy that prohibits minors from riding bicycles, scooters, or skateboards past 10 PM. Tragically, there have been fatalities in Norfolk, Virginia, linked to riding late at night.
What is a specific action you would initiate, lead, or support to improve bicycling infrastructure based on one of the following: 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan OR forthcoming NFK 2050?
I fully support the pilot bike loop project and believe it will enhance the biking experience for the cyclists in Norfolk.
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Tommy Leeman, Mayor
Norfolk City Council adopted a Vision Zero policy. There is money set aside for supporting Vision Zero initiatives. Please describe a specific action that you would initiate, lead, or support to help eliminate deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists.
Norfolk’s Vision Zero Policy has funding, but progress has stalled. Streets remain unsafe for pedestrians, cyclists, and even vehicles working together. We need a leader who prioritizes safety, listens to groups like Bike Norfolk, and ultimately makes tough decisions. Leadership is about action and accountability, not photo ops. I will work to implement urban design solutions that protect all citizens by listening to what is working in other cities like ours.
What is a specific action you would initiate, lead, or support to improve bicycling infrastructure based on one of the following: 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan OR forthcoming NFK 2050?
The 2015 Bike Plan stalled. The NFK 2050 plan offers a fresh opportunity to rethink biking infrastructure. I will look at how we can prioritize street design that takes into account bike and pedestrian traffic, unlike in the past, we will follow through with a clear focus on implementation. We need leadership that is committed to safety for everyone using our streets.
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Kenneth Alexander, Incumbent Mayor
Norfolk City Council adopted a Vision Zero policy. There is money set aside for supporting Vision Zero initiatives. Please describe a specific action that you would initiate, lead, or support to help eliminate deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists.
As mayor, I have been committed to ensuring safe and accessible streets for all users. I will continue to support Norfolk’s Vision Zero Safety Action Plan which aims to provide accessible and equitable multimodal transportation options throughout the City by identifying challenges, developing effective strategies, and implementing solutions.
What is a specific action you would initiate, lead, or support to improve bicycling infrastructure based on one of the following: 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan OR forthcoming NFK 2050?
Building on the 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan, I would initiate, lead, and support the Southside Bikeways (Corridor 9) project. Public input highlights the Jordan Bridge as a key destination. This project provides a continuous bikeway connection between Southside, Chesapeake, and Downtown, significantly enhancing our city’s biking infrastructure.
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Jeremy McGee, City Council Superward 6
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Norfolk City Council adopted a Vision Zero policy. There is money set aside for supporting Vision Zero initiatives. Please describe a specific action that you would initiate, lead, or support to help eliminate deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists.
Norfolk must prioritize implementation over continued planning when it comes to safety. We have several dangerous intersections for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. I would fully support Vision Zero by focusing on improving high-risk intersections with enhanced crosswalks and safer designs that protect all road users. Additionally, I support increasing traffic enforcement to reduce speeding, along with using speed cameras and other traffic calming measures. We also need to expand public education on road safety and ensure our bike and pedestrian routes are clear, connected, and well-maintained to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on our roads. Lastly, we need to work relentlessly to find more grants, state and federal dollars to support this work as the cities need in this area are significant.
What is a specific action you would initiate, lead, or support to improve bicycling infrastructure based on one of the following: 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan OR forthcoming NFK 2050?
I would support the expansion of bike lanes along key corridors, particularly those connecting neighborhoods to downtown, schools, beaches and transit hubs. This includes prioritizing physically separated bike lanes where possible to improve safety and increase ridership. Granby St to Admiral Taussig and an East / West Connector are specific segments I’d like to focus on moving forward along with better maintaining the infrastructure already in place. I would support the expansion of the Elizabeth River Trail from the Navy base to the Virginia Beach trail that is under development. I will also help accelerate efforts to secure state and federal dollars for this work. Finally, I would advocate for integrating bike and pedestrian focus into the forthcoming NFK 2050 plan to ensure our city evolves to becomes safer and more multimodal.
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Carlos Clanton, City Council Superward 7
Norfolk City Council adopted a Vision Zero policy. There is money set aside for supporting Vision Zero initiatives. Please describe a specific action that you would initiate, lead, or support to help eliminate deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists.
As a strong advocate for safer streets, I prioritize implementing protected bike lanes along high-traffic corridors in Norfolk. These lanes would separate cyclists from cars, significantly reducing the risk of collisions. I would also push for enhanced crosswalk visibility, adding more pedestrian islands, and reducing speed limits in school zones and residential areas. By integrating data from crash reports and community feedback, we can strategically address the most dangerous regions and ensure that Norfolk becomes a city where pedestrians and cyclists feel safe in every neighborhood.
What is a specific action you would initiate, lead, or support to improve bicycling infrastructure based on one of the following: 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan OR forthcoming NFK 2050?
I will champion the expansion of a connected network of bike lanes throughout Norfolk, focusing on completing the gaps identified in the 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan. I prioritize creating a continuous bike route between downtown Norfolk and our coastal neighborhoods, encouraging commuter and recreational cycling. Looking ahead to NFK 2050, I will push for future development to integrate cycling infrastructure from the start, ensuring that as our city grows, it becomes more bike-friendly, reducing congestion and promoting a healthier, greener Norfolk.
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Christine Smith, City Council Superward 7
Norfolk City Council adopted a Vision Zero policy. There is money set aside for supporting Vision Zero initiatives. Please describe a specific action that you would initiate, lead, or support to help eliminate deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists.
To help minimize deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists. I would advocate for making Military Highway pedestrian friendly. Currently there are very few sidewalks on Military Highway from Little Creek Road to the Elizabeth River. Pedestrians are walking in the street on Military Hwy including the 264 overpass at various times of the day. This is very dangerous. Although some street calming measures were implemented on the south end of Military Hwy, sidewalks, bike lanes and timed lights from north to south would be a great improvement.
What is a specific action you would initiate, lead, or support to improve bicycling infrastructure based on one of the following: 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan OR forthcoming NFK 2050?
The 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan suggests a “citywide” loop for bicyclists. However, this loop does not include the Southside. I would advocate for incorporating a smaller loop that connects the Elizabeth River Trail to the Southside. This project would entail more than the lane repurposing currently planned for Berkley. It would result in a larger loop and smaller loop for bicyclists to enjoy. More importantly, it would connect the southside with the rest of the city. Thus, symbolizing that we are one city.
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Rodney Jordan, City Council Superward 7
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Norfolk City Council adopted a Vision Zero policy. There is money set aside for supporting Vision Zero initiatives. Please describe a specific action that you would initiate, lead, or support to help eliminate deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists.
Superward 7 is a majority African-American district and African-American are disproportionately victims of traffic fatalities. In Park Place, a leader in bike rides and a pilot of the City’s various pilots, I observe a lack of awareness by drivers, pedestrians, and safety. I will work with Ward 7 communities or an education campaign that is culturally affirming and inclusive.
What is a specific action you would initiate, lead, or support to improve bicycling infrastructure based on one of the following: 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan OR forthcoming NFK 2050?
While I support and admire the work that’s been done with the 2015 Plan, based upon conversations I have had I am not certain the level of community engagement and awareness of the plan in Ward 7 is deeply rooted. My specific action would involve a series of community engagement and buy-in sessions to review current recommendations and the consideration of adjustments based upon 2024 realities. I would tie this effort into Vision Zero campaign I mentioned previously. Community buy-in is critical to usage and advocacy for future investment.
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Phillip Hawkins Jr., City Council Superward 7
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Norfolk City Council adopted a Vision Zero policy. There is money set aside for supporting Vision Zero initiatives. Please describe a specific action that you would initiate, lead, or support to help eliminate deaths of pedestrians and bicyclists.
As a member of the Norfolk City Council, I would like to initiate funding and a plan for installing more traffic lights and pedestrian crosswalks and crosswalk Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB) on demand signals/lights and in all major traffic corridors throughout the city. This initiative will slow traffic down to allow more pedestrians, citizens who need ADA access, and cyclists to have opportunities and access to move around our city freely and safely. Some problem areas include Little Creek Road, Lafayette Blvd, Berkley Avenue, Military Highway, Poplar Hall Drive, Shore Drive, Azalea Garden Road, Chesapeake Blvd, Sewells Point Road, Ballentine Blvd, Princess Anne Road, Church Street, Brambleton Avenue, Park Avenue, Tidewater Drive, Ingleside Road, Kempsville Road, and VA Beach Blvd (Broad Creek near Majestic Avenue).
What is a specific action you would initiate, lead, or support to improve bicycling infrastructure based on one of the following: 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan OR forthcoming NFK 2050?
I would support the funding and implementation of pedestrian facilities throughout the city to bring higher visibility to crosswalks, raised crosswalks, curb ramps, and curb extensions as outlined in the 2015 Strategic Bike and Pedestrian Plan.
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Ken Paulson, School Board Ward 5
Ken Paulson asked that we share his Virginian-Pilot letter to the editor from Oct, 5, 2021, in lieu of answering the questions.
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Sarah DiCalogero, School Board Superward 6
What are your thoughts about providing a match to fund a dedicated position within NPS to manage and promote the Safe Routes to Schools Program? Background: For several years, NPS had a Safe Routes to Schools coordinator. The grant-funded position requires a match and application sent by NPS PE coordinator (or another staffer). Next grant cycle is Fall 2025.
I believe commuting by bike (or walking) is great not just for our kids but for families around the neighborhood, and I am open to supporting this. As you mentioned, since we previously had this position, I would first like to know what support this position provided and how much impact it had towards safer and better alternative transportation for our kids. I believe the average salary for this position is $48,000 nationally, so it is important to me to understand the return for this investment. As a Statistics Professor at TCC, I would like to see the data supporting these conclusions.
How will you prioritize the safety of our children who walk and ride bikes to school? OR In what ways can walking and bicycling infrastructure be improved to allow for more children to travel safely to school? (Answer either one.)
I’d love to improve the biking infrastructure near busy crossroads in Norfolk, but I’m not sure how much power the school board has for this. I strongly support a parent and community led “bike bus” at our elementary schools, which I first learned of from a nightly news segment on a school in Oregon that started this trend. I see this as a great way for not just promoting biking, but for the mental and physical health of our kids. This is directly in line with my overall campaign of getting parents and the community involved in the success of our schools.
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Rebecca D. Topping, School Board Superward 6
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What are your thoughts about providing a match to fund a dedicated position within NPS to manage and promote the Safe Routes to Schools Program? Background: For several years, NPS had a Safe Routes to Schools coordinator. The grant-funded position requires a match and application sent by NPS PE coordinator (or another staffer). Next grant cycle is Fall 2025.
Yes, I do believe there should be a dedicated position with NPS to manage and promote Safe Routes. Many students at the elementary, middle, and high school levels walk or bike to school. It is important to provide parents and guardians with information about safe routes, crossing guards, and best practices for crossing the street. I am in support of a dedicated person in this role.
How will you prioritize the safety of our children who walk and ride bikes to school? OR In what ways can walking and bicycling infrastructure be improved to allow for more children to travel safely to school? (Answer either one.)
One of the many reasons, folks reside in a city is the walkability. Schools, churches, shops and restaurants are all within a walking radius and create a vibrant community. Like many, that’s why I chose my neighborhood. I have two daughters who attend Norfolk Public Schools and they walk. It’s a time to catch up with friends, discuss plans for the day, and develop autonomy. However, they cross a four-lane road to get to school. Many children, in Superward 6 face obstacles like this. There needs to be a champion for walkers and bikers, who provides information on safe routes and advocates for crossing guards. I will support better communication to parents, civic leagues, neighborhoods and schools on the safe routes that Norfolk offers and encourage audits of how better to use resources for our kids to safely get to school.
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Alfreda Thomas, School Board Superward 7
What are your thoughts about providing a match to fund a dedicated position within NPS to manage and promote the Safe Routes to Schools Program? Background: For several years, NPS had a Safe Routes to Schools coordinator. The grant-funded position requires a match and application sent by NPS PE coordinator (or another staffer). Next grant cycle is Fall 2025.
I think it’s a great idea. Because the program has been and is very great for commuting to school. It’s another option to driving , avoid high gas costs, traffic, polluting the air and a way to get healthy and become active.
How will you prioritize the safety of our children who walk and ride bikes to school? OR In what ways can walking and bicycling infrastructure be improved to allow for more children to travel safely to school? (Answer either one.)
I would ask to have increased law enforcement along routes. We should always be informed, by having educational training classes provided to people who are interested in walking and riding bikes. Always make sure the lines are visible and it’s enough space between cars and pedestrians. Also, the sidewalks are free of debris and the pavement is even.
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Ron White, School Board Superward 7
What are your thoughts about providing a match to fund a dedicated position within NPS to manage and promote the Safe Routes to Schools Program? Background: For several years, NPS had a Safe Routes to Schools coordinator. The grant-funded position requires a match and application sent by NPS PE coordinator (or another staffer). Next grant cycle is Fall 2025.
I would support such an effort.
How will you prioritize the safety of our children who walk and ride bikes to school? OR In what ways can walking and bicycling infrastructure be improved to allow for more children to travel safely to school? (Answer either one.)
I believe that a special task force/advisory committee with community members is needed to ensure the safe routes to school for those children who walk or bike. There exists a plethora of best practices to include providing safety tips for parents, reporting unsafe sidewalks, adding speed bumps and crosswalks, adding warning speedometers, adding bike lanes, promoting “safe routes to schools” campaigns, hiring more patrols, and conducting safety audits. Tasks forces are a great way to ensure community engagement and to maintain and systematize “watch dog” and policy efforts.
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