Mixed views on SoNo terminal plan

CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) - People who live and work in the South Norfolk area of Chesapeake have mixed emotions over a plan for a shipping terminal.

SeaGate Handling wants to build a multi modal terminal on a 23-acre site that fronts the southern branch of the Elizabeth River and would create 15 jobs.

Homeowner Jennifer Gilman is also chairperson of the Historic and Architectural Review Board and told WAVY.com she's against the plan.

"No one knows how safe it is for our children to be around," Gillman said. "It doesn't fit with the plans for South Norfolk at all. There's a lot of players working to revitalize the area and make it a better place for people to live."

Dr. George Pegram, who operates an optometry practice nearby disagrees.

"I understand that it's not a tremendous amount of jobs its going to create," Pegram said. "With the rail being right there, the new Jordan Bridge, the waterway, the Interstate 464 being right there, it'll be a good use for the property. I have no problem with it as long as there's no environmental impact on the neighborhood or the waterway." 

Planning staffers recommended approval for the project but the city council is expected to get the final say after discussing the matter in July.