Richmond City Council: Affordable Housing, Parks, and Hospital Upgrades – What’s on the Agenda?

The Richmond City Council is tackling big issues that directly impact your daily life—from affordable housing to park improvements and even hospital upgrades. Here’s what’s on the table:

Affordable Housing at 809 Oliver Hill Way

• What’s happening? The city is considering a grant agreement to fund affordable housing. The location is a unique one-of-a-kind development that will target young adults experiencing housing instability, in transition, and those exiting the foster care system.

• Why it matters: If approved, this means more accessible housing options for Richmonders who need it.

• Public Hearing: March 24, 2025, at 6 PM.

A $500K Grant for Whitcomb Community Park

• What’s happening? A grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation could fund park improvements.

• Why it matters: This could mean new playgrounds, walking trails, and green spaces—better places to relax and play.

• Public Hearing: March 24, 2025, at 6 PM.

More Affordable Housing on Semmes Avenue

• What’s happening? Another housing development is proposed for 1903 and 1905 Semmes Avenue.

• Why it matters: More homes mean more opportunities for qualified residents to find stable housing.

• Public Hearing: March 24, 2025, at 6 PM.

Paying the People Who Help Allocate City Money

• What’s happening? A proposal would provide stipends to Participatory Budgeting Steering Commission members and allow them to form committees.

• Why it matters: Paying commission members (not residents) could make it easier for everyday Richmonders to get involved in city budget decisions by incentivizing meetings. Ad hoc committees allow for deeper and broader engagement throughout the city. Stipend limits are placed on members for each fiscal year.

• Public Hearing: April 14, 2025, at 6 PM.

$15M for Hospital Improvements

• What’s happening? A bond approval for Bon Secours and Richmond Community Hospital could finance facility upgrades.

• Why it matters: This could mean better healthcare access and quality for local residents.

• Public Hearing: March 24, 2025, at 6 PM.

Why This Matters

Whether it's more housing, better parks, or improved healthcare, these decisions shape Richmond’s future. Want a say in how your city runs? Show up to a public hearing, send an email, or at the very least, stay informed (and keep reading this blog!).

Because if we don’t pay attention, someone else will—and they might not have our best interests in mind.

For more information on the Richmond City Council, please visit the city's website.