Larry Estes Won Ocean View License Plate Design Contest
The winning design celebrates the history of the Norfolk neighborhood with local imagery.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in African-American
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Larry Estes, director of the Ocean View Station Museum, has been selected as the winner of the Ocean View license plate design contest. His design was chosen by a seven-member committee from a pool of more than 150 entries.
Why it matters
The new license plate aims to celebrate the unique culture and history of the Ocean View neighborhood in Norfolk. The project honors local landmarks and historical elements, including the defunct Ocean View Amusement Park.
The contest drew over 150 submissions, with a seven-member committee selecting the winning design. Production of the license plate requires at least 450 drivers to submit prepaid applications.
The players
Larry Estes
He serves as the director of the Ocean View Station Museum and designed the winning license plate.
Phil Hernandez
He is a Delegate who announced the results of the license plate contest on October 8, 2026.
The details
The winning artwork features a diverse collection of local symbols, including a roller coaster, a mermaid, crabs, a beach scene, and a leprechaun. Estes will now work alongside a graphic designer to refine the concept before the state legislative process begins.
Timeline
1978: The Ocean View Amusement Park closed.
October 8, 2026: Delegate Phil Hernandez announced the contest winner.
January 2027: The General Assembly will convene to introduce legislation for the plate.
March 2027: Estes plans to celebrate the plate at a local parade.
Roadmap
The transition from a community-led design to a state-sanctioned license plate requires navigating the established legislative requirements of the Virginia General Assembly. This process ensures that new plate designs meet specific administrative thresholds before becoming available to residents.
Norfolk residents interested in the new plate must submit a prepaid application to help reach the 450-count threshold required for production. Participation directly contributes to the realization of this local project and its debut at the planned March 2027 parade.
The takeaway
Community-led initiatives such as design contests offer a tangible way for residents to shape the symbols representing their local neighborhood. Interested drivers should note that public interest, measured by prepaid applications, is the primary driver for moving this design into production.
What happens next
Legislation to authorize the license plate is scheduled for introduction during the General Assembly session starting in January 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local cultural initiatives in Norfolk African-American.
More information
Residents can indicate their support by completing the license plate interest registration form.
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