Park Place

Park Place is one of Norfolk’s oldest neighborhoods, defined by strong civic engagement and a community that consistently shows up for one another. Shaped by early streetcar lines, historic homes, and long‑standing community networks, the neighborhood’s low‑lying blocks and aging drainage systems mean water often lingers after storms, pooling in backyards and along streets like Debree Street. Residents have talked for years about how everyday flooding disrupts walking routes, yard use, and basic mobility.

Greenway design plan: The co‑designed layout showing native plants, rain gardens, and a central walking path.

“We need to have our say before our say is had for us.”

— Park Place resident in Co-design Workshop (via reseacher Justin)

The Solution: The Debree Street Greenway

That resident and many others, feedback led directly to the proposed however not implemented design of Debree Street Greenway. This nature-based corridor stretching between W 37th and W 38th Street, is designed to when implemented to connect two well‑used streets while reducing flooding along the path.

Putting the Tree Canopy Assessment into action. The Elizabeth River Project and COPE Urban C5 team worked together to plant trees in designated priority areas, turning resident feedback into a greener reality for Park Place.

Growing a Greener Canopy

Tree planting in Park Place grew directly from what residents said they needed and how they wanted their neighborhood to feel. This wasn’t just about aesthetics, it was about adding shade, managing stormwater, and creating community value. The work didn't stop at design. Guided by the Park Place Tree Canopy Assessment, the Elizabeth River Project and the COPE Urban C5 team identified high-priority areas for reforestation. By turning these community requests into an implemented solution, the team has successfully planted 150+ new trees in the specific locations where they were needed most.