Noke News explores parts of Roanoke by foot, equipped with a camera and a notepad, in hopes of learning something new. Perhaps you will too.

This is Part 2 of a 2 part series. To read Part 1, click over to Exploring Roanoke - The Railwalk (Part 1)

Elevated Platform About Halfway Along the Railwalk

We previously left off right here, on the elevated ‘train station’ platform, which is about halfway along The Railwalk in downtown Roanoke. As you know this Railwalk runs right next to the real train tracks just beyond the fence.

As promised there’s more to see in the way of railroad memorabilia and interactive exhibits, so let’s venture forth:

At the top of this incline platform is another set of interactive signals, but these are completely visual.

Traffic Light Fixture to the Right, Controls to the Left

On either end of this elevated boardwalk are railroad signal fixtures. The control buttons are located attached to the fence at the top of platform.

These are the traffic lights of the trains, and here you get to experience what it’s like to be in control.

And further along the second half of the Railwalk there are more historical markers, mounted directly on a train axle.

This one in particular is about the former headquarters of Norfolk and Western which I believe refer to the still standing (since the late 1800s) brick buildings seen in the background of the photo.

Shortly ahead when looking up and over the fence there’s a view of The Hotel Roanoke, which is matched with another marker just like this one.

And using old photos and a brief history, the marker describes the nearby historic hotel.

Next up may be the most well-known monument along the Railwalk, resting at the intersection where Norfolk Avenue meets Jefferson Street.

Railkwalk Monument at Intersection of Norfolk Avenue and Jefferson Street

The shape is easily recognizable as our fair state, and with the frontside filled with smaller markers depicting other railroad tracks and destinations.

A modest waterfall also exists beneath the sign and gathers in a narrow reservoir at the base.

Another fragment of historical railroad operation sits as an old railcar along the path.

The railcar has even been placed on a small section of track, also with an accompanying plaque and information on it’s origin and use.

Also, looking closely off to the right in the photo, another train is passing by beyond the fence and causing a gentle rumble in the area.

As we approach the final part of the Railwalk there are a series of five more monuments, each featuring large plaques.

On these plaques are additional details and pictures about the locomotives and railways.

Monuments with Plaques of Information of and about the Railroad

And, appropriately enough, the following is placed in the ground at the very end. (Incidently, just off to the right the road is currently closed to traffic and this is where construction on the new museum is taking place.)

End of the (Railwalk) Line

As I briefly reflect on the experience of the Railwalk, I admit that like all Exploring Roanoke posts I don’t aim to cover everything. I mean, what fun would that be? There’s even more than I’ve written about along the walk in the form of other historical markers, train exhibits, and photos of the earlier days. It’s a thoughtful walk, and one I encourage you to take sometime.

Noke News explores parts of Roanoke by foot, equipped with a camera and a notepad, in hopes of learning something new. Perhaps you will too.

With being a hub for Norfolk-Southern, Roanoke is widely known for its railroad heritage. This is evident when driving around town, as it’s nearly impossible to completely avoid having to cross a set of tracks, or seeing (or hearing) a train in the distance.

At the Center of the Railwalk Rests This Memorable Monument

To commemorate Roanoke’s history and connection with the railroad, the city had established a Railwalk downtown which features artifacts, exhibits, and other information on the history and operation of trains in the area.

And as it turned out I couldn’t think of a more thoughtful way to spend an hour or two on a pleasant afternoon.

Let’s go for a walk:

The Railwalk is located downtown on Norfolk Avenue (between 1st and Market Street), and actually runs parallel to railroad tracks that are just on the other side of the fence. And as I walked along the path I remember at least 3 different trains passed by, which definitely added to the experience.

For this walk, I started at the intersection with 1st Street but I don’t think there is any specific starting point.

Start of the Railwalk, the Rumble of a Train Passes Nearby

A Working Railroad Crossing Gate on the Railwalk

The first exhibit is an actual railroad crossing gate, and it really works! One push of the button on the nearby stand is all it takes.

The button activates the notable bell ringing, associated flashing lights, and then follows with the guard lowering all in a single continuous motion.

Very cool!

Several more feet down the walk is another interactive railroad signal device, this time in the form of a horn and whistle, similar to those used when an oncoming train is approaching a road crossing.

Push one of the buttons, and from overhead on a post the sound will be released.

Be ready because they’re pretty loud!

Just ahead is one of several benches along the entire walk, which are built onto an axle with the two train wheels on either sides acting as the armrests. In the near distance is an old mine car, like the ones originally used to carry coal and other minerals.

An Axle Bench and Old Mine Car on the Railwalk

And, of course, the mine car here is carrying a full load of coal.

There is a third signal device a few feet further, and this one is a railroad safety bell. It works and is authentically loud as well.

Historic Information on Display on the Railkwalk

Throughout the railwalk there are displays of historic information, and like the benches, they are mounted as part of a train axle.

This one in particular gives information and pictures on the history of the nearby Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Bridge.

Next up is an elevated section to resemble a platform at a train station.

This would be where the conductor or other passengers would board and unboard the train.

Elevated Train Station Platform on the Railwalk

And, for a short while, we’re going to unboard here.

But, there’s much more to see so catch the next train and we’ll finish with Exploring Roanoke - The Railwalk (Part 2).

This is Part 1 of a 2 part series. To read the rest of the experience along the Railwalk, click over to Exploring Roanoke - The Railwalk (Part 2).

A little over a month ago, I wrote about the ongoing construction of a new housing subdivision along Grandin Road Ext named Maple Leaf Farms. As part of the Update 30, it’s time to check out the progress on this project.

According to a sign at the construction site (info also found at a realtor’s website) the homes are being called “Architectural Designs In The Tradition Of South Roanoke” and overall there are approximately 25 open lots available.

View of Maple Leaf Farms, Grandin Road Ext in Foreground (4/12/08)

One house is nearing completion and now the foundation for a second is also present. The first house that’s already taken shape is directly off Grandin Road Ext, and on the immediate right along the new, unpaved Maple Leaf Drive.

A large cul-de-sac (seen to the left in the above photo) is part of what is to be Maple Leaf Court. A house listed online appears to be the second home being built at the entire site and the first on this road, stated as 4401 Maple Leaf Court and carrying a price tag of $699,000. For now, the listing is only a drawing of what the house is expected to resemble.

Maple Leaf Farms as Seen Traveling Along Grandin Road Ext (4/12/08)

There is also a second gravel road at the end of, and forming the top of a “T” with, Maple Leaf Drive. This new road will be called Greenlace Circle and upon completion will offer no outlets or connections with existing roads on either end.

This development will continue to be on the Update 30 list. This means I’ll be posting updates at least monthly, or as often as necessary to keep up with notable changes I see.

(EDIT: This construction project has been updated, click to view. )

For those of you with the standard issue (Jamestown 1607-2007) license plate, or those otherwise just looking for a change, then one more choice to display your vehicle state tag number may be on the way.

A news release at the Roanoke City website reveals that an initiative is underway to bring the option of purchasing license plates bearing the Roanoke logo. The news release states:

The City of Roanoke is initiating the process for the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to create a specialty license plate bearing the Roanoke brand identity for purchase. In order to do this, the DMV requires the city to collect 350 applications before requesting the creation of the plate.

For further information on costs and purchasing, or to see a preliminary design of the proposed license plate, you may visit the city webpage.

I admit it.

For about the first year after I purchased my home in Roanoke City (in July 2005) whenever this short, seasonal publication arrived, it was simply discarded.

Not so anymore.

Roanoke Citizen Magazine (Spring 2008)

When I came home late yesterday afternoon I could already see the top left corner of the magazine peaking out of my mailbox. The recognized Roanoke City logo, which is comprised of a slight abstract design of mountains and the star, reflected some of the day’s remaining sunshine.

If you’re a citizen of the city this little glossy-paged newsletter of sorts will be reaching you soon, if it hasn’t already.

Among the highlights of this issue are articles about: Roanoke’s Clean and Green Campaign, a brief history and heritage of the Roanoke River, and updates on Roanoke Greenways.

Check it out, after all, it’s free (or tax dollars well spent I think).

Once again on a Thursday Roanoke was greeted with very pleasant temperatures this time reaching to the mid 70s, and they’re expected to continue through the better part of today.

Sunshine and Open Road along the Blue Ridge Parkway (4/10/08)

Of course there are no guarantees for a precipitation-free weekend (I suppose we need the rain anyways) so just enjoy the nice temperature while it’s here. 

Especially after a long day, sometimes all it takes is a 20 minute drive along the Parkway to help take in all that Spring has to offer.

A few weeks ago, after posting about a new restaurant in the area, I noticed that construction was underway across the street in the northwest section of the Towers Shopping Center property. Currently, starting at the intersection with 23rd Street and in-between the exposed dirt on the side of Brandon Avenue, the formation of a sidewalk is taking place.

Construction Near Towers Shopping Center. Brandon Avenue to the Left and 23rd Street in the Foreground. (4/9/08)

As it turns out, this short section of road is perhaps being widened slightly to provide travelers with more shoulder room.

Sidewalk Under Construction on Brandon Avenue (4/9/08)

A sidewalk is currently under construction and will also run parallel to this stretch of road.

The walkway appears to end near the top of the hill, just before the first opening that allows drivers access to the shopping center.

This sidewalk partly borders a roughly paved corner lot that has been vacant for years, except for seasonal occupants such as those selling Christmas Trees in December.  Is a permanent business preparing to take up residence at this spot?

Current Ending of the Sidewalk (4/9/08)

At the bottom of the hill the sidewalk curves slightly towards the direction traveling along 23rd Street, then stops abruptly.

No construction is currently ongoing to suggest that the walk will continue all the way up 23rd Street, and connect with the Towers Shopping Center parking lot.

But, I drive this road frequently and will pass along notable updates as they are seen.  Hooray for sidewalks!

Noke News explores parts of Roanoke by foot, equipped with a camera and a notepad, in hopes of learning something new. Perhaps you will too.

I had not been to this park in several years, ever since I was in daycare as a very young teenager. As such, I don’t remember much about the place except for the pond. So, I was long overdue to revisit, and what better time than right now.

You ready?

Lakewood Park Sign

Lakewood Park is located along Brandon Avenue, at the corner of Brambleton Avenue in Roanoke City. I assume the name stems from the body of water (which more resembles a large pond) and the surrounding forestry that shields the park from nearby neighborhoods.

The park is best accessed when traveling east (towards Towers Shopping Mall) as parallel parking is provided by way of an extended paved shoulder on the side of the road in that direction.

Of first note is how large the park is itself. It spans several acres in total, and is bordered along Brandon Avenue by over 2000 feet. There is plenty of open space for frisbee throwing, dog walking, or just regular walking and gathering. The ground is not entirely flat, however, and does suffer from the occasional rough spot or small hole.

Unique about this park is the pond and fountain, which continuously sprays streams of water up and out of the body of water in an arc. Even with the nearby road and traffic, the gentle tapping and splashing of water from the fountain can be heard as pleasant background noise while at the playground, several picnic tables, and surrounding grassy areas.

Playground and Fountain (Seen to the Right in Photo) at Lakewood Park

A slightly more secluded area is provided after crossing the cement bridge and over the gully system. Here, some picnic tables, park benches, and even a grill are provided, all in great view of the little lake and the fountain.

View of the Little Lake from the Right

At approximately the middle of the park stands what I think is an old and meandering locust tree. This is one of a family of other trees in this area, which will leave small sections of the park in shade during the summer. This can be especially notable during those rather hot late July and early August days us Roanokers are known to experience.

An Aged, Meandering Locust Tree (Right) Grows in the Center of Lakewood Park, Amongst a Family of Other Trees

In the far west section of the park (the side nearest Brambleton Avenue) there is an outdoor basketball court. And during the afternoon hours on a mild day it’s very uncommon to see the court vacant of players. And in the eastern section a net was strung up to establish an informal volleyball court.

Sunny Day and a Peaceful Spot at Lakewood Park

But, by far I think the most intriguing aspect of this park is the pond and accompanying water fountain. That’s both the icing on the cake and the main attraction all rolled into one.

Have a seat and enjoy it sometime.