Westport Commons

WPA was contacted by Collins Enterprises to lead the public process portion of the Westport Commons and Watermark Apartments project. The project, begun nearly a decade ago, involves the demolition of 243 Navy housing apartments built in 1948, and the construction of 180 apartments, 68 townhouses, 70 condominiums, and various indoor and outdoor amenities.WPA led the team though a series of eight public presentations to solicit feedback from the Ward’s Corner Task Force, the Ward’s Corner Civic League, the Talbot Park Civic League, the Architectural Review Board, and the Planning Commission. By engaging in open communication with all stakeholders, WPA and Collins Enterprises, and the design team (Do Chung, Winks Snowa Architects, Clark Nexsen, WPL, U&I Home Decorating, and Basnight Land & Lawnscsping)  were able to make changes to the project that improved the project both for the community, the developer, and the City of Norfolk. The project density was decreased, the apartments were redesigned to better engage with Newport Avenue, activate the street, and enhance the pedestrian experience. All parties were able to agree on a text amendment that ensures the development complies with setbacks, building height, materials, amenities, parking, and Architectural Review Board review of each building.