COMMENT BY
margaret from Norfolk, VA
COMMENT ABOUT PLACE
Norfolk, VA
COMMENT
public school system
i love my neighborhood in norfolk, va. it is called riverview and situated in a low traffic area bordered by a large city park and zoo, a river and a major street. these "borders" protect it somewhat from outsiders and drive through traffic. it is tucked back away from neighboring areas having considerably more crime. norfolk is a city of many small neighborhoods, varying between "good" and "bad". this is definitely a GOOD one. i have never lived in an area consisting of so many friendly people. it is so easy to meet people here. it is old fashioned that way. when we moved here we were greeted with cookies, hellos, and an invite to a now friend's "garage bar". within a week i was invited to the neighborhood bookclub.
my only concern now is safety and the public school system. this was not a consideration when we moved here since we did not have children then. most of our neighbors have chosen montessori or private school. we also do not feel entirely comfortable with the overall safety of the city. the good neighborhoods are FANTASTIC. but the bad ones are pretty BAD as far as crime is concerned.
unfortunately, now we are considering moving once i retire from the military so that we can raise our daughter in safe environment that encourages outdoor activities and bike riding (bike lanes) and has a public school system with a great reputation.