PORTSMOUTH, Va. – Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) today hosted a ribbon-cutting event introducing three new shelters for Elizabeth River Ferry passengers in time for Harborfest and the Seawall Festival this weekend and the busy summer season.
The shelters – at High Street and North Landing in Portsmouth and Waterside in Norfolk – are designed with both residents and visitors in mind. The vibrant waterfront shelters offer protection from the elements while enhancing the customer experience with sweeping views of the Elizabeth River.
“Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or just enjoying the ride, these new ferry shelters are a fresh and modern addition to your journey across the water,” said William E. Harrell, HRT’s President and CEO. “HRT strives to provide passengers with a positive transit experience, and that begins before they step on board – whether it’s a ferry, bus, or the light rail. These new ferry shelters are just one of the many ways we’re meeting the mission.”
The shelters were designed and constructed to resemble cargo ship containers, reflecting the working waterfront along the Elizabeth River. Each shelter is painted in different hues to reflect HRT’s blue and green brand colors.
“Our new ferry shelters are a bold new waterfront landmark. The eye-catching design includes corrugated metal cladding that nods to our region’s rich shipping and maritime heritage,” said Sibyl Pappas, HRT’s Chief Engineering and Facilities Officer.
Full glass walls offer panoramic river views while new benches provide a comfortable wait. Each shelter is equipped with solar-powered overhead lighting and bold signage that ensures visibility day and night.
Once installed later, digital display panels will provide real-time service information, while integrated speakers enable HRT to make announcements directly to passengers. These features will ensure that riders stay informed and connected every step of the way.
“For more than 40 years, Hampton Roads Transit has served the cities of Portsmouth and Norfolk with dedication and innovation,” Portsmouth Mayor Shannon Glover said at the event. “As we head into a busy summer season, we expect our two ferry docks in Portsmouth to be bustling with passengers. This year, those riders will not only benefit from the comfort and shade of these new shelters, but they’ll also enjoy a design that complements and elevates our beautiful waterfront – a waterfront that continues to thrive thanks in large part to the Elizabeth River Ferry.”
Funding for the project came through the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) and local funds.
The ferry provides daily, year-round service between Waterside in Norfolk and both the North Landing and High Street docks in Portsmouth, as well as to Harbor Park from North Landing for Norfolk Tides baseball games. For schedules and fares, please visit gohrt.com/routes/ferry
New ferry shelter at Waterside in Norfolk.
New ferry shelter at North Landing in Portsmouth.
New ferry shelter at High Street in Portsmouth.
About HRT
HRT’s mission is to connect Hampton Roads with transportation solutions that are reliable, safe, efficient and sustainable. For more information on transit services, visit gohrt.com.
Media contact:
Thomas Becher, APR
Manager, Communications
June 5, 2025
Cell: (757) 354-0564
(757) 222-6010