Trailblazer SPOTLIGHT: Matthew Burnham
Name: Matthew Burnham
Profession: Master Police Officer – Training Instructor
Organization Name: City of Norfolk Police Department
Email: matthew.burnham@norfolk.gov
Organization Website: www.norfolk.gov/Police
Years lived in Norfolk: 20
Pronouns: he/him
Tell us about yourself.
Hi, I’m Matt Burnham, a Master Police Officer for the City of Norfolk. I currently have the privilege of being assigned to the police academy as a primary instructor, where I teach police recruits in various subjects, focusing on defensive driving and criminal investigations. In nearly 20 years of service, I’ve worked in the second precinct as a patrol officer and training officer, in the detective division as a forensic investigator and latent print examiner, and now in the training division. Prior to joining the police force, I worked as an Emergency Medical Technician for Sentara’s ambulance service.
I’ve lived in the Bayview neighborhood for 16 years with my growing family. My wife, an operations manager, and I have two young boys (ages 6 and 2), who keep me busy. We also share our home with a dog named Tango and a cat named Morbo the Annihilator. Our family loves the outdoors, and we spend as much time as we can camping, hiking, and swimming from spring through late fall. My latest hobby is crafting fancy cocktails, with a particular interest in vintage tiki recipes from the 1950s.
How did you get connected to the ERT and the Foundation?
After years of running and biking on the trail, my assignment to the training division made it a natural fit to bring recruits to the Elizabeth River Trail. A close friend of mine, Jimmy Entas, introduced me to the ERT Foundation.
What does the trail mean to you personally?
For me, the trail is a way to decompress and de-stress. It provides a rare quiet space where I can clear my mind. The sights and sounds along the trail are uniquely Norfolk, offering a fresh way to experience the city.
How, and why, does the NPD utilize the trail?
As a training instructor, one of my responsibilities is ensuring police recruit physical fitness, which we approach with a structured program that includes both cardiovascular endurance and strength training. Physical fitness is directly tied to job performance and mental health, both of which are critical to being an effective officer—a priority for the Norfolk Police Department and our community.
The police academy, located near the airport, has an excellent gym for weight training, but the surroundings for running are limited. The ERT offers a refreshing change of scenery with its wide, paved paths, allowing me to lead runs safely off the streets and keep the recruits together.
Additionally, the calisthenics course between the Midtown Tunnel and Fort Norfolk has been a valuable asset. It offers recruits a physical challenge while fostering team-building, particularly at the start of the academy. This unique feature of the trail is a significant benefit for both the recruits and the city.
Considering your professional background, how does the trail impact the community?
Personal safety is a priority for the police department, and a clearly marked, well-lit, and frequently used trail aligns with that goal. In an urban area like Norfolk, safe, accessible spaces for walking, running, and cycling are limited. The ERT offers a well-maintained trail that’s reassuring for experienced users and welcoming for those just starting their fitness journey.
If you met someone who just moved to Norfolk, what would you say to get them interested in the trail?
I’d tell them that the Elizabeth River Trail is one of the best ways to explore Norfolk. It’s a 10.5-mile urban trail that passes through different neighborhoods and offers fantastic views that make the miles fly by. Along the way, you’ll encounter breweries and some of Norfolk’s staple restaurants, giving you a true taste of what makes Norfolk a great place to live, work, and play.
What is your favorite place on the trail?
With my police recruits, I’d say the calisthenics course is my favorite—it’s always fun to see their successes (and the occasional spectacular fails). When I’m running solo, I really enjoy the stretch between West Freemason and Jeff Robertson Park. In just a few miles, you get a variety of environments and great views. Running up Redgate and around the park can feel like you have the entire trail to yourself. Also—the food nearby is a huge bonus!
Favorite Trailgrazing spot? (i.e. best local food spot steps from the trail)
I’m probably biased, but I have to say Vessel Craft Coffee on W. Olney Rd. is a fantastic spot. It’s a welcoming place for people from all walks of life, and they serve some of the best coffee drinks I’ve ever had.
