NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk City Council on Tuesday approved a rezoning at Colonna’s Shipyard, despite more than a dozen nearby residents and other community members speaking in opposition.

The rezoning rezones property along Emmet Place and Indian River Road to allow for future shipbuilding operations. It is currently zoned as multi-family.

Nearby neighbors said Colonna’s has not been a good neighbor and complained of multiple issues including dust coating their homes and vehicles , industrial noise disturbing their peace, and bright lights shining into their windows at night.

They also had long-term concerns about climate resilience and environmental justice.

“Once again, a working-class Black community is being asked to bear the cost of corporate convenience,” said resident Jay Boone.

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