Richmond City Council Meeting January 12, 2026: New Greenspace, Safer Streets, and Your Voice in Action
- Voice !t Staff
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
In a dynamic session on January 12, 2026, the Richmond City Council moved forward on key initiatives designed to strengthen the city's foundation, ranging from expanding affordable housing to securing critical funding for public safety and recovery services. Driven by direct testimony from residents across districts, the meeting resulted in over $1 million for youth violence prevention, the advancement of several diverse residential developments, and strategic planning for infrastructure that prioritizes connectivity and pedestrian safety. This update explores how these decisions—and your voice—are actively shaping a more inclusive and resilient Richmond.
Community Spotlight: When Residents Speak Up, the City Listens
When the Richmond City Council gathered to tackle the future of our neighborhoods, the energy in the room was fueled by the people who call this city home. From Carl (6th District) discussing the use of vacant properties for community benefit to Thomas (1st District) seeking clarity on the VMFA expansion, residents took the mic to shape the conversation.
We heard powerful testimony regarding funding for the McShin Recovery Resource Foundation from Tylean, John, and Jason, while Rhonda and Aurora from the 7th District brought urgent attention to services for the unhoused and public security. Brian (7th District) underscored the importance of the public's trust, calling for rigorous fiscal oversight of taxpayer funds and greater public accountability. Derek (4th District) and Beverly also advocated for expanded affordable housing options. This meeting proved once again that Community Development isn't just a policy term—it’s a collective effort led by all of us.
Housing & Neighborhood Growth
The Council took several steps to expand housing options and protect residents from being priced out of their communities.
Development by the Numbers In total, the Council reviewed or approved plans for dozens of single-family homes and multi-family units (including multi-family dwellings and two-family detached homes) across various districts. While some larger projects—like the 16 single-family attached dwellings at 3923 Grove Avenue—were continued to later dates for further refinement, the commitment to increasing Richmond's housing supply remains a top priority.
Affordable Housing & Displacement Protection The City adopted a resolution to inventory and assess the effectiveness of programs designed to mitigate resident displacement. Additionally, the Council is moving forward with public hearings to refine how tax revenue is used for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, ensuring our housing goals are backed by solid financial strategies.
New Residential Projects Council members moved forward with several permits, including a four-unit multifamily dwelling at 1403 North 32nd Street and a 17-unit project at 2301 Fairmount Avenue. These projects represent a push for diverse housing types in established neighborhoods.
Why this matters: These decisions determine if there will be a home available for your growing family or a way for your longtime neighbors to stay in the city they love. What does "affordable" look like in your ideal version of Richmond?
Public Safety & Health
Richmond is doubling down on community-led health initiatives and Public Safety frameworks to support our most vulnerable residents.
Gun Violence Prevention & Youth Support In a major move, the Council adopted an ordinance transferring $1,100,000.00 to support the YWCA and "Next Up" initiatives. These funds are part of the City’s Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention Framework, focusing on the root causes of violence and providing youth with better alternatives.
Combating the Opioid Crisis The City is aggressively pursuing grant funding to address addiction. This includes accepting over $600,000.00 for "Operation STOP" and establishing partnership agreements with Henrico and Chesterfield Counties to support regional recovery academies. Further contracts were introduced to provide "bed fee" scholarships for recovery residences and trauma counseling for youth impacted by family overdoses.
Why this matters: Investing in recovery and youth programs today means fewer crises and a safer, healthier environment for everyone tomorrow. How can our city better support neighbors who are currently struggling with health or safety challenges?
Infrastructure & Green Spaces
From better bridges to new trails, the City is investing in the physical connections that bring us together.
Parks and Pedestrian Safety The Council introduced funding agreements for Phase IV of the Gillies Creek Greenway, a major win for outdoor enthusiasts. To keep our streets walkable and safe, the City also accepted $325,040.00 for a new Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon at the intersection of 24th and Main Streets.
Bridge and Roadway Improvements The City introduced and referred for review significant VDOT funding for bridge replacements on East Richmond Road at Stony Run and Gillies Creek. Additionally, over $3.2 million was designated for the engineering phase of the Broad Rock grade separation project, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety.
Why this matters: Safe bridges and clear crosswalks mean a smoother commute and more time spent enjoying the city rather than sitting in traffic. Which part of your daily commute would you love to see become more "green" or walkable?
In Closing
You don't need to be a policy expert or a zoning pro to make an impact in Richmond—you just need to show up! Whether you’re passionate about a new bike path or concerned about neighborhood density, your perspective is the "secret sauce" that makes local government work. Democracy is built by showing up, and as we've seen this week, Richmonders are leading the way.
Keep standing up and speaking out!
Seniors on Social Security need more affordable housing, rent reduction, and stabilization of rents.