This Week at Richmond City Council: Growing Green Spaces and Investing in Our Future
- Voice !t Staff
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
Cultivating a Greener City
Sankofa Community Orchard The City Planning Commission is moving forward with a plan to turn city-owned real estate into a flourishing hub for urban agriculture. By declaring lots on Boroughbridge Road and Covington Road as surplus, the City aims to facilitate the Sankofa Community Orchard via the Central Virginia Agrarian Commons.
Protecting Our Waterways and Soil The Land Use, Housing and Transportation Standing Committee recommended updates to the City Code to better protect the Chesapeake Bay. These amendments align local land use and development criteria with state law. Additionally, the committee recommended updating erosion and stormwater management fees to stay in sync with recent changes to state water regulations.
Energy Efficiency for All The committee is also working on a comprehensive energy efficiency program. This initiative aims to reduce utility costs for our most vulnerable households and small businesses, with further reviews scheduled for March 17, 2026.
Why this matters: Protecting our natural resources and lowering energy costs ensures a healthier, more affordable environment for every family. How do you envision your neighborhood’s green spaces evolving over the next decade?
Building Better Neighborhoods
Investing in Affordable Housing The Finance and Economic Development Standing Committee took a big step toward housing stability by recommending an ordinance for the disposition of real estate tax revenue. This money will be specifically evaluated and used for affordable housing initiatives across the city.
The Diamond District Transformation The redevelopment of the Diamond District is gaining momentum. The committee recommended transferring $14,700,000 from the Contingency Reserve to the Economic Development Authority to fuel this transformative project.
A New Identity for the 7th and 8th Districts Local history is being honored in the 7th District, where a resolution was forwarded to name an alley "Strong Oak Alley". Meanwhile, in the 8th District, the committee recommended designating 4611 Walmsley Boulevard as a revitalization area, paving the way for future growth under state code.
Why this matters: Dedicated funding for housing and neighborhood revitalization keeps our city accessible and honors the unique character of our local streets. What kind of new landmarks or names would best reflect the history of your street?
Smart Moves for Transportation & Finance
Modernizing Transit and Infrastructure The City Planning Commission is carefully reviewing plans for a new bus platform on North 2nd Street. To ensure the best outcome for riders between East Broad and East Marshall Streets, the review will continue on March 17, 2026. Furthermore, the City is actively seeking Round 7 "SMART SCALE" funding from the state to support our candidate transportation projects for 2026.
Fiscal Responsibility and Savings To keep our financial house in order, the Finance Committee recommended issuing refunding bonds for both public improvements and public utilities. By refunding existing debt at better rates, the City can manage up to $336 million in total bonds more efficiently.
Why this matters: Strategic financial planning and transit updates mean more reliable services without putting an unnecessary burden on your wallet. If you could improve one part of your daily commute, where would you start?
In Closing
You don't need to be a policy expert or a legal scholar to make a difference in our city—you just need to pay attention and show up! Whether it’s naming an alley or funding a new district, these changes happen because people like you stay informed. Democracy is built by showing up, and your interest is what keeps our city moving in the right direction.