Turning Opportunity into Housing: Why Adaptive Reuse Matters for Norfolk's Future

Virginian Pilot, Trevor Metcalfe, Staff Writer, Monday, April 6, 2026 (Click Picture for Full Article)

Last month, I voted in support of a project that will convert an underutilized motel into affordable housing here in Norfolk. While on the surface this may seem like a straightforward redevelopment decision, it represents something much bigger, a strategic step forward in how we address our city’s housing challenges.

As Co-Chair of the Mayor’s Housing Commission, I have spent significant time working alongside colleagues, stakeholders, and community members to better understand the full scope of Norfolk’s housing needs.

One thing is clear: we cannot rely on a single solution. We must pursue a comprehensive, balanced approach that increases supply across the spectrum, from deeply affordable units to workforce and market-rate housing.

This project is a strong example of what that approach looks like in action.

Meeting the Moment with Smart, Practical Solutions

Norfolk, like many cities across the country, is facing increased housing demand, rising costs, and a growing number of residents seeking attainable living options. Traditional new construction is important, but it can take years to deliver results and often comes with significant cost barriers.

Adaptive reuse, repurposing existing structures for housing, allows us to move with greater urgency.

By converting a motel into housing, we are:

• Bringing units online faster

• Reducing development costs compared to ground-up construction

• Revitalizing underutilized properties

• Minimizing disruption to surrounding neighborhoods

This is about being both strategic and responsive. It’s about recognizing that we must act now, while continuing to plan for the long term.

Housing as a Foundation for Stronger Communities

Housing is not an isolated issue. It is directly connected to economic mobility, educational outcomes, public safety, and overall community well-being.

When individuals and families have access to stable, affordable housing:

• Children perform better in school

• Workers are better positioned to maintain employment

• Communities experience greater stability and cohesion

That is why every housing decision we make must be grounded not only in numbers, but in impact.

Aligning with Norfolk’s Broader Housing Vision

Through the work of the Housing Commission and the City Council, we are focused on building a housing strategy that is both comprehensive and sustainable. This includes:

• Increasing the supply of affordable and workforce housing

• Encouraging innovative development approaches like adaptive reuse

• Strengthening partnerships with developers and community organizations

• Ensuring equitable access to housing opportunities across all neighborhoods

This motel conversion project reflects those priorities. It is one piece of a much larger effort to ensure that Norfolk remains a city where people at all income levels can live, work, and thrive.

Bridging, Building, and Empowering Our Neighborhoods

My commitment has always been rooted in the belief that we must bridge opportunity, build stronger systems, and empower our neighborhoods.

This vote was about doing exactly that.

While there is still much work ahead, projects like this demonstrate that we are not standing still. We are taking meaningful, thoughtful steps toward addressing one of the most pressing issues facing our city today.

Norfolk’s future depends on the choices we make now. I remain committed to ensuring those choices move us toward greater access, greater equity, and greater opportunity for all.

—Councilman Carlos Clanton

Norfolk City Council, Superward 7