# September 15, 2026 Norfolk City Council Work Session

The Norfolk City Council Work Session held on September 15, 2026, included a detailed update from Mike Davis, District Engineer for the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), on several major transportation projects. Key procurement-related topics included the upcoming paving of the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) tunnels, with contract provisions for directional closures, emergency contingencies, and contractor incentives and penalties to ensure timely completion. Updates were also provided on the Hampton Roads Express Lanes projects, including design-build contracts nearing execution and construction timelines extending to 2029. Coordination with local law enforcement and neighboring jurisdictions was emphasized to manage traffic impacts during construction. Additionally, the City Planning Department presented multiple zoning text amendments and conditional use permits, including proposals affecting airport district uses, window signage regulations, and the creation of an Industrial Mixed Use Overlay District. A significant portion of the meeting focused on short term rental (STR) regulations, discussing a proposed overlay district for the Willoughby area to limit STR density, enforcement enhancements, and the potential impact on other neighborhoods. The Planning Commission recommended approval of these zoning changes, with council members expressing concerns about broader citywide implications and enforcement. The session concluded with a motion to enter closed session regarding a civil lawsuit. No specific contract awards or dollar amounts were disclosed, but several procurement and policy decisions related to infrastructure projects and zoning regulations were discussed.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Professional Services
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 15, 2026

### Sources
- [September 15, 2026 Norfolk City Council Work Session](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zR_lWk4GYHc) - NorfolkTV