Rudee Park
Let's write the Rudee Park story, together.
Current Status
On Aug. 19, 2025, City Council approved for Parks & Recreation to advance the Rudee Park project and develop the final design documents to construct a park.
Project Receives Green Light
On Aug. 19, 2025, City Council gave its approval for Parks & Recreation to proceed with developing the final construction documents to build Rudee Park. The final plans are expected to take about 12-18 months to complete.
During this time, Parks & Recreation will establish a fundraising team to solicit donations and sponsorships to offset the overall cost of constructing the park. It’s estimated that this could raise about $20 million dollars and include naming rights to park features and/or events in the park.
The final design will include a surface parking lot with 397 publicly available parking spaces. A parking garage was presented as an option, however City Council opted for the surface parking solution to reduce construction costs.
Arriving at a Concept
On May 20, 2025, City Council was briefed on the Rudee Park Master Plan, which included a conceptual plan that outlines the features and designs preferred by residents, collected through public feedback.
Some unique elements that received significant public support and can be seen in the master plan are:
- Immersive natural trails/paths.
- Inlet steps down to the water.
- A shared-use pedestrian and cycling path woven through the park.
- Nature-based play areas.
Rudee Park Concept Rendering
May 20, 2025, City Council Presentation
Aug. 19, 2025, City Council Presentation
An elevated path frames the central “Beach Village,” with a hub of restrooms, showers, food and beverage offerings, while providing scenic overlooks of the ocean, inlet and park.
Underpinning the park’s identity — and crucial to its success — is a commitment to maintaining and enhancing the culture and ecology of Virginia Beach. Native plantings can be found throughout the park, creating a natural feel as an authentic part of Virginia Beach.
A water plaza and splash pad, anchored by a signature “wave” waterfall, pays tribute to the city’s surf culture and connection to the water. Vehicular access remains at Atlantic Avenue, while 2nd Street provides key beach parking to support the resort area and water sports.
The Beach Village enhances Grommet Island with new amenities and seating, creating a celebration landmark for activity at the southern end of the boardwalk. Opportunities for public art will spotlight local talent and celebrate the city’s vibrant creative community at all the primary park entries and water plaza.
Rudee Park site plan with surface parking.
Rudee Park site plan with parking structure.
Next Steps
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Construction drawings will be developed over the next 18 months. During this time the capital fundraising campaign will be established/underway.
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Bidding and award for construction will take place 6-8 months after construction drawings have been developed. During this time, the non-profit conservancy will be established and ready to operate once construction is complete.
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Construction is expected to take two years.
Looking for more information?
View the frequently asked questions and timeline of City actions at the end of the page!
About Rudee Park
Located at the southern end of the Virginia Beach resort, the 8-acre site was once part of the local system of beach dunes, maritime forest, and sand shoals broken by what is now Rudee Inlet.
One of the most beautiful and dynamic properties on the East Coast, locals and visitors immerse themselves in the open access and views to the Atlantic Ocean, inlet waterways, beaches, and coastal ecology.
Public importance of the site has grown over time, making Rudee Loop a premier destination for all the communities across the City of Virginia Beach.
Following decades of debate and public input, the City of Virginia Beach has committed to open public access and use of the site by creating a world-class public destination, Rudee Park.
Let’s write the Rudee Park story together.