Sunday, April 28th, 2024

G Gathering Paradise Creek Nature Park officially opens

Paradise Creek Nature Park officially opens



Elizabeth River Project, the City of Portsmouth, and the Virginia Port Authority recently celebrated the Grand Opening of Phase 1 of Paradise Creek Nature Park.

Elizabeth River Project raised more than $4 million to buy the waterfront land, revitalize the forest and create two miles of trails, green parking, a 275 foot pedestrian bridge, an earthworks sculpture and other amenities. Another 200 acres of conservation and restoration surrounds the site. Interpretive signage at the park tells the story of how River Star homes, schools and businesses are helping bring their home river back to life.

The park is open from dawn to dusk.


From left: David A. Johnson, Director, VA Department of Conservation and Recreation; Rodney Oliver, Interim Director, VA Port Authority; Portsmouth Mayor Kenneth Wright; Dr. David Stuckwisch, Portsmouth Superintendent of Schools; Princess Elizabeth of Elizabeth River Project (aka Robin Dunbar); Bruce Bradley, past president, Elizabeth River Project; Marjorie Mayfield Jackson, Executive Director, Elizabeth River Project; and Congressman Bobby Scott.