Richmond City Council Update: The 2025 Annual Growth Plan in Action

The latest Richmond 300 progress report is in, outlining how the city is shaping up for the future. With ambitious goals like better housing, smarter zoning, and more connected neighborhoods, here’s what it all means for you.

What’s Happening?

• Community Engagement: The city hosted 51 meetings last year, hearing from nearly 1,600 residents about their concerns and ideas.

• Growth Focus Areas: Richmond City Council is prioritizing six key districts for development, from Downtown to Bellemeade—expect more businesses, housing, and transit improvements.

• Priority Neighborhoods: Investments are being made in areas with large public housing developments, ensuring equitable growth.

Big Changes Coming Your Way

• Housing Expansion: The city aims to quadruple its affordable housing output by 2026, from 143 units last year to 800 in the near future.

• Rewriting the Zoning Code: An overhaul is coming in 2026 to simplify and modernize land use rules.

• More Green Spaces: Parks and trails are expanding, with the James River Branch Trail under construction and new parks in Southside in the works.

• Transportation Improvements: Safer streets, better bike lanes, and major bridge replacements (like the Arthur Ashe Bridge and Mayo Bridge) are all part of the plan.

What This Means for You

• More Affordable Housing: Whether you're a renter or homebuyer, expect more options in the next few years.

• Easier Commutes: With improved transit and pedestrian-friendly streets, getting around Richmond should be less of a headache.

• More Parks & Public Spaces: Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy better trails and parks right in their neighborhoods.

Looking Ahead: Richmond’s Glow-Up Continues

By 2037, Richmond wants to be a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable city. But to get there, your input matters—attend a meeting, share feedback, and stay informed. Because let’s be real, if we’re going to be the next great city, it’s going to take more than just wishing on a RVA skyline sunset.

Link to City Council supporting documents