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The Suffolk Seaboard Coastline Trail will start Phase II of construction soon.

Suffolk Parks & Recreation will start the second phase of the four-phase project in the next 30 days. This part of the trail will begin at 212 Suburban Drive and end at 1151 Nansemond Parkway.

This segment of the trail will be 10 feet wide, fully paved, ADA accessible, and 1.5 miles long. The completion of this project is projected for spring 2021, as these projects usually take around 180 days.

“Once constructed, we will have a trailhead to mark the start,” said Helen Gabriel, assistant director at Suffolk Parks & Recreation. “The trailhead will provide parking, a kiosk, maybe a picnic area, and a bike fix-it station. It will be a nice spot to take a break or to get started.”

According to Gabriel, the goal is for the Suffolk Seaboard Coastline Trail to span 11 miles from the Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum in downtown Suffolk, to the city line of Chesapeake. This segment will connect multiple communities located adjacent to the trail.

“A big goal of this trail is to promote active and healthy lifestyles,” said Gabriel. “We have seen much usage of the Driver Trail, especially during the pandemic. We have gotten nothing but positive feedback.”

Gabriel also noted that Parks & Recreation is still applying for grant funding for the next two phases. The plan has received approval, and now she is ready to move forward.

“It’s very rewarding to provide such a great amenity for residents and visitors from surrounding areas,” said Gabriel.