Designing a Better Richmond: This Week’s Community and Housing Updates
- Voice !t Staff
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Community Spotlight
When residents speak up, the City of Richmond listens! During the latest meetings on February 2nd and 3rd, 2026, we saw democracy in motion as the Richmond City Council committees and the Planning Commission evaluated projects that directly affect our neighborhoods. From adjusting restaurant hours to accommodate local peace and quiet to ensuring our commissioners can participate even when under the weather—like Commissioner Knight joining virtually to stay involved—your community leaders are working hard to keep Richmond moving forward.
Housing & Community Development
Richmond is taking significant steps to address where we live and how we support one another. The Richmond City Council Organizational Development Standing Committee recently moved two major ordinances regarding the Affordable Housing Trust Fund toward a full Council vote.
Affordable Housing Trust Fund Enhancements
Mayor Avula and several Commissioners are championing new ways to manage revenue from tax-delinquent properties and real estate taxes to boost our city's affordable housing initiatives. Both items have been forwarded to the February 9, 2026, Council meeting for further discussion.
Permanent Supportive Housing on Rady Street
The Planning Commission recommended approval for modified terms for up to 83 permanent supportive housing units at 2900 Rady Street and 2733 5th Avenue. This project focuses on providing stable, long-term environments for residents who need it most.
Why this matters: These initiatives aim to lower the cost of living and provide a safety net for our neighbors, ensuring that Richmond remains a place everyone can afford to call home. How would your neighborhood change if everyone had access to a safe and stable place to live?
Neighborhood Growth & Zoning
Our city’s footprint is evolving with a mix of new residential and commercial spaces designed to make our streets more vibrant and functional.
New Residential Projects Across the City
The Planning Commission recommended a variety of new housing options, including:
4400 West Broad Street: A new multifamily dwelling.
Thompson Street & Floyd Avenue: Up to 17 single-family attached dwellings.
Cedar and Burfoot Streets: New single-family homes designed to fit the character of the neighborhood.
Nine Mile Road & Mosby Street: Exciting mixed-use buildings that combine living spaces with potential retail or dining.
Vibrant Local Businesses
At 217 West Clay Street, a new restaurant with outdoor dining was recommended for approval. In response to community considerations, the Commission amended the hours to ensure outdoor dining wraps up by 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and 11:00 p.m. on weekends to respect the surrounding residential area. Additionally, 1007 Melrose Avenue is set to house a new commissary kitchen and library serving the local seminary.
Supporting Families and Education
The Commission recommended increasing the capacity of the day nursery at 3601 Seminary Avenue from 64 to 74 children, helping more local families find reliable childcare.
Why this matters: Smarter zoning means more housing options and livelier streets, which can lead to shorter commutes and a boost in local property values. What kind of new business or housing do you think would bring the most "spark" to your favorite local block?
Parks, Transportation & Public Spaces
Richmond is investing in the "great outdoors" and the way we move through the city, ensuring our Community Development includes high-quality public infrastructure.
Broad Rock Creek Park Improvements
The Urban Design Committee (UDC) has officially approved the final review for Phase 1 improvements at Broad Rock Creek Park. This marks a major milestone in bringing better recreational facilities to the Lynhaven Avenue area.
Enhanced Transit on North 2nd Street
A concept review for a new bus platform on North 2nd Street has been referred to the UDC for further refinement this February. This project aims to improve the boarding experience for transit riders in the heart of the city.
Why this matters: Better parks and transit platforms make our city more accessible and provide free spaces for relaxation and exercise, which are essential for Public Safety and mental health. If you could add one feature to your local park or bus stop, what would it be?
In Closing
Phew! That was a lot of ground to cover, but as you can see, Richmond is anything but stagnant. You don't need a degree in urban planning or a suit and tie to make a difference, sometimes you just need to know that your local nursery is expanding or that a new restaurant is coming to the neighborhood.
Democracy is built by showing up, even if it's just by reading a summary like this one.
Stay curious, stay engaged, and remember: this is your city, and you're the one shaping its future!