The purpose of the present study is to determine the nature and possible extent of the physical changes that may result in the estuarine environment of Hampton Roads, including the waters of the lower James River and a major tributary, the Elizabeth River, due to the implementation of a given expansion design. The physical changes to be evaluated at representative locations therein include changes in:

1. tidal range and phase
2. strength and direction of tidal and tidally-averaged currents
3. salinity or salinity structure
4. circulation and flushing ability
5. bottom sedimentation potential

In addition to the general physical characteristics listed above, certain noted features of the local estuarine environment were examined using model simulation techniques as described below. These features include a tidal front system that regularly appears in the lower James River near Newport News Point and a non-tidal eddy system observed during the time of neap tides at the Elizabeth River entrance near Craney Island.