THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, December 24, 1995 TAG: 9512200122
SECTION: REAL LIFE PAGE: K1 EDITION: FINAL
COLUMN: OBSCURE TOUR
LOCAL LANDMARKS THE TOUR BOOKS NEVER MENTION
SOURCE: BY KERRY DOUGHERTY, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: Short : 38 lines
THE ONLY GOOD thing about a traffic jam at the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel this time of year is Commodore Park.
Yes, that's the name of the little Norfolk neighborhood that outblazes all others with its annual Christmas display. A perfectly timed traffic backup could allow you and your passengers to get a good look at one of the most colorfully decorated areas in Hampton Roads.
Although there are no restrictive covenants requiring residents to illuminate plastic Santas and candy canes each Christmas season, almost everyone in Commodore Park seems to do it.
This neighborhood is so electric that planes approaching Norfolk International Airport at night in December can almost navigate by it.
If traffic is moving smoothly along I-64 west, you might miss the whole thing or just catch a glimpse of the lights in your rear-view mirror.
To be ready for optimum interstate viewing, begin looking right after you pass the Forest Lawn Cemetery, then prepare to slow down.
For a better look, drive through Commodore Park by going north on Granby Street. Just past Bay View Boulevard, turn left at the Commodore Park sign. Then turn onto Westmont or Chester Streets and follow the cars to Gramel Street and Burrage Road. ILLUSTRATION: Color photo
FILE
Carolyn and Sonny Cofield get into the Commodore Park spirit.
by CNB