Western Branch Chesapeake Trail

Construction Complete (Phase 1)

This is a VDOT-funded project. Phase 1 of the proposed 10-foot multi-use path is from the Portsmouth-Chesapeake City line to Dordon Street. The path is located on the abandoned railway. VDOT has approved $170,000, matching City funding. Phase 1 trail paving is complete, and delivery of benches and amenities is forthcoming.

Future Phases

Future phases of the project are currently funded, and the City's long-term goal is to extend the trail to connect to the Suffolk Seaboard Coastline Trail. 

Phase 2 of the Western Branch Trail project will fund construction of a 10-foot-wide multi-use path connecting the completed Phase I portion of the project to the future Phase III of the project (Taylor Rd to Suffolk Line)

Project Schedule Phase II:

Design Completion: Spring 2024

Project Budget Phase II:

Budget: $1.1 million

Phase 3 of the project (connecting Phase 2 to Suffolk trail) is currently fully funded with a mix of local, Transportation Alternatives, and SmartScale funding. The design and right-of-way acquisition for this project is funded with awarded Transportation Alternatives funding. The construction for this project is funded with awarded SmartScale funding, and the City is coordinating with VDOT on the timing of this funding.

Project Schedule Phase III:

Design Start: Summer 2023

Design Completion: Fall 2025

Project Budget Phase III:

Budget: $3.1 million

Chesapeake Bike Trail 2

Western Branch Trail Phase 3 Proposed Alignment 2022