A north-facing view of the Lesner Bridge at Lynnhaven Inlet in Virginia Beach in May 2025. A proposed surge barrier would stretch across the channel on the north side of the bridge. (Photo by Katherine Hafner)
Virginia Beach moving forward with proposal for flood surge barrier at Lynnhaven Inlet
Virginia Beach City Council has approved moving forward with plans to build a storm surge barrier across Lynnhaven Inlet to protect surrounding neighborhoods from catastrophic flooding.
The proposed project, part of a larger study with the Army Corps of Engineers, would feature three sets of tide gates just north of the Lesner Bridge.
City officials noted that the project was prioritized because the inlet’s connected tributaries affect a large number of residents, including those in Windsor Woods and Princess Anne Plaza.
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Pentagon leaders of the Golden Dome for America hold first public event at Fort Story Read more
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GOP’s hope to undo Virginia’s new redistricting power grows after judge halts maps Read more
Some birth control options in Virginia could be available at pharmacies without a prescription under the Contraceptive Equity Act. (Photo via Canva)
Virginia law will make some birth control free under private insurance
Beginning in 2027, the Contraceptive Equity Act will require private insurers in Virginia to cover a wide range of birth control methods with no out-of-pocket costs for patients.
The new law includes coverage for over-the-counter options such as condoms and oral contraceptives, even when purchased without a prescription.
Insurers must provide at least one cost-free option in every birth control category and cover other specific methods if a doctor deems them medically necessary.
Finding transportation to services, such as the Grove Christian Outreach Center's food pantry shown here, can be tricky for people experiencing poverty. (Photo by Nick McNamara)
‘Eye-opening, enlightening, educational’: James City County course to raise awareness about living in poverty
A Monday course titled “A Day In Their Shoes” will offer participants a glimpse into the everyday challenges and stressors faced by those living in poverty in the greater Williamsburg area.
Organized by the Williamsburg-James City County Community Action Agency and Virginia Cooperative Extension, the simulation tasks up to 75 participants with navigating obstacles such as work, child care and accessing assistance.
The initiative comes as 2024 census data shows poverty rates increasing across the region, with Williamsburg’s rate surpassing 18%.
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