Transportation Planning

The City of Virginia Beach Master Transportation Plan (MTP) envisions the future of a multimodal local and regional transportation network. 

In accordance with the Code of Virginia §15.2-2223, the MTP is a mandatory comprehensive planning assessment of existing conditions with consideration of future trends and needs. This plan must consider designation of transportation infrastructure needs, contain maps showing road and transportation improvements, and be in accordance with the Commonwealth of Virginia Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP).

Primary Transportation Goals for Virginia Beach:
    • Following the Complete Streets philosophy of designing roadways considering the needs for all users and modes in an attractive and environmentally sustainable manner.
    • Promoting walkable, transit supportive, mixed-use neighborhoods in the Strategic Growth Areas (SGAs).
    • Preserving and meeting the transportation needs of the City’s Suburban Area and Rural Area south of the Green Line by concentrating the majority of future development in the SGAs.
    • Prioritize transportation improvements to achieve the greatest benefits due to the magnitude of the transportation needs throughout the City.

A key component of the Master Transportation Plan is the Primary Roadway Network Plan Map, this map is a key planning tool for the development of the City’s street network. The map was developed in conjunction with current specifications and standards used by the City’s Public Works Department. The Primary Network Plan Map identifies the general road corridor locations, classification, and the ultimate proposed motor vehicular lane number and general configuration.

Public Transportation

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) is the public transit provider for the City of Virginia Beach. Many regionally connected bus routes run throughout the City to get citizens to and from popular spots, such as Town Center, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and the Municipal Center.  The City is served by three major route types – Fixed Regular Routes, MAX Express Routes, and Seasonal Bus Routes for the Oceanfront and Bayfront areas. Paratransit demand-response service is also provided along its fixed-route services.

Explore the Public Transportation StoryMap to view the City's HRT bus route network, bus stops, and paratransit service. The StoryMap also explores the City's Bus Shelter Improvement Program and Transit Dependent Populations. 

HRT OnDemand - Microtransit Pilot Program Complete
HRT recently completed a microtransit rideshare program called HRT OnDemand, which serviced the general Bayside area. Fares were free from July 10-24, 2022, and then $2 per ride for the remaining duration of the pilot. Students with a Student Freedom Pass and paratransit-certified users were able to ride free using this service. HRT OnDemand provided transit scheduled from a smartphone app and once a ride was entered with pickup and drop-off locations, the system provided ride options for time and location. Riders were directed to a nearby “virtual bus stop,” located within a short distance and a driver was dispatched to meet them at that location. Customers were picked up in a van displaying the HRT logo and rideshare brand. Rides were shared by users and each passenger had a seat based on availability. Riders who select the option for a "wheelchair accessible vehicle" were provided door-to-door service.

Service hours were from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. The pilot program ran for seven months. 

Users can enjoy free rides through July 24. Beginning July 25, the cost is just $2 per ride.  Students with a Student Freedom Pass and paratransit-certified users ride free throughout the program’s duration. 

City of Virginia Beach Bus Shelter Improvement Program
In 2016, only 5% of the 500+ bus stops in Virginia Beach have shelters. However, in 2016-2017, City Council approved $668,000 to build 24 new bus shelters, doubling the number of shelters throughout the city. ​Regional funding in 2021 is also scheduled to add another nearly $400,000 toward bus stop improvements such as service amenities, including more new shelters. Explore the Public Transportation StoryMap to see which bus stops are currently planned for improvements.

HRT Bus Amenities Improvement Program
Additionally, Hampton Roads Transit and the City have partnered to determine locations for HRT’s Bus Amenities Improvement Program, which provides shelters, trash cans and benches to stop currently without amenities. Stops are identified by HRT along Regional Transportation Service (RTS routes, which are then evaluated for any potential conflicts with City utilities, right of way, etc. before permits are issued for the installation of amenities.
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