With receipt of a $1.3 million Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG), a new waterfront park is anticipated to begin construction later this year in the Town of Tappahannock, Virginia, that will transform an existing town-owned empty lot into an engaging community space. Plans for the new Hoskins Creek Park include a boardwalk and look out point; kayak launch; shoreline restoration; bath house and commercial space with waterfront amenities. VHB provided grant assistance, master planning, and landscape architecture for the project, including a demonstration area of a sustainable living shoreline to show the benefits of erosion prevention.
The park’s proximity to Highway 17 and State Route 360 make it an ideal destination for locals and visitors across the region. The site’s natural surroundings will provide a scenic backdrop for outdoor dining and recreation—boosting economic activity for this historic, waterfront community. The park will also give visitors easy access to a variety of marine recreational activities, including a floating dock for boat mooring and an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible kayak launch for exploring Hoskins Creek.
VHB designed a shoreline stabilization to protect the existing public infrastructure and restore the coastline along the creek, while reducing erosion and improving water quality. The shoreline design provides a natural alternative to a traditional bulkhead or seawall shoreline, incorporating native plants, stone revetment, and additional natural materials—an important step for protecting and restoring the ecological health of the creek.
VHB also helped the Town of Tappahannock navigate the grant funding process to support the development of the master plan and construct future features on site. In addition to the $1.3 million BIG award, the Town received $69,620 from the Department of Conservation and Recreation Flood Fund Grant, and $250,000 from the VDOT Recreational Access Grant.
“The revitalization of this site will support the Town by bringing vibrancy to a space that’s considered the gateway to Tappahannock Main Street and also to the greater Northern Neck region,” said Doug Mettler, VHB’s Project Manager. “Not only will it provide an enjoyable space for the community, but it also prioritizes sustainability through numerous eco-friendly features that will promote a healthier environment and provide an example for future projects.”
Additional eco-friendly features include reducing the site’s impervious service area with the addition of green space, use of permeable paving products, rainwater harvesting, protecting on site wetlands, and reducing flood risk.
Contact Doug Mettler to learn more about the project and how VHB can support your organization with grant assistance.
