Longer School Days, Oceanfront Parking Returns, and I-264 Lane Closures Ahead
Virginia Beach, VA – April 3, 2026 – School days are lengthening, paid Oceanfront parking returns, and new lane closures hit I-264 next week.
Virginia Beach is heading into April with several changes that touch classrooms, commutes, and the Oceanfront.
School Board Extends Instructional Time
Beginning April 13, Virginia Beach City Public Schools will add 10 minutes to each school day through June 8. The move is intended to make up for a planned school closure on April 21 tied to a special election.
The decision has sparked pushback from some teachers and families, who say the added time disrupts after-school jobs, sports, appointments, and end-of-year exam prep. School Board members discussed alternative approaches, including shifting to an instructional-hours model, but no policy change was approved.
The board is scheduled to meet again April 14, one day after the longer days are set to begin.
Paid Parking Returns to the Oceanfront
Paid parking is now back in effect at the Oceanfront as the city ramps up for the warmer season. City officials say residents can apply for a new 50-dollar digital parking voucher through the HONK app.
The voucher can be used at select city lots, garages, and metered spaces along Atlantic Avenue. Applications require proof of residency, and approvals are expected to begin around April 10.
At the same time, the warning period for several school zone speed cameras has ended, meaning citations are now being issued at designated locations across the city.
Upcoming Lane Closures on I-264
Drivers should also prepare for periodic lane closures on Interstate 264 in Virginia Beach next week. According to the latest weekly traffic alert from the Virginia Department of Transportation, alternating single-lane closures are scheduled during daytime hours as crews perform maintenance and improvement work.
Motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time and watch for signage, particularly during mid-morning and early afternoon work windows.
Together, these updates signal a busy spring stretch for Virginia Beach, with adjustments in schools, seasonal parking policies, and ongoing infrastructure work shaping daily routines.
