The Paradise Creek Industrial Corridor is located next to Navy operations and a recently completed bridge that significantly increases access. However, economic growth is stymied by underused properties and two Superfund sites. The adjacent Cradock neighborhood envisions increasing community amenities and access to the Elizabeth River and Paradise Creek tributary.
Skeo led a charrette process that engaged diverse stakeholders in evaluating reuse options for the industrial corridor. Key considerations included community needs, enhancement of riparian ecosystems and the objectives of EPA’s Urban Waters Initiative. Project recommendations focused on ways to integrate economic development, environmental stewardship and improved transportation options.
The project’s Paradise Creek Industrial Corridor Future Use Plan identified catalyst projects to revitalize the corridor, improve circulation, incorporate green infrastructure and restore community connections to urban waters. The City of Portsmouth, EPA, property owners and environmental organizations now have a roadmap for aligning cleanup and redevelopment efforts.