Richmond, Virginia Development News
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Development News from the latest meeting
City Council to Consider Resolutions Supporting Regional Transportation Projects
The committee considered two resolutions supporting regional transportation projects for Chesterfield and Henrico Counties under the Commonwealth Transportation Board's Smart Scale Round Seven funding. These resolutions are necessary for the regional partners' projects, which are adjacent to the city, to be considered for funding. Henrico County has already passed similar resolutions supporting the city's projects. A specific example highlighted is a Chesterfield project involving interchange improvements near the city limit that, in partnership with the city's traffic calming project on Hall Street, aims to improve safety and traffic flow across the county line. The committee approved forwarding both resolutions to council.
Resolution to Preserve Historic Westwood Neighborhood's Character Approved
The committee considered Resolution 2026 R024, requesting the Department of Planning and Development Review (PDR) to collaborate with residents and stakeholders in the historic Westwood neighborhood to develop community-informed design guidelines and strategies to preserve its cultural and historic character and guide future investments. Councilmember Bretton, the resolution's patron, emphasized its importance for recognizing and preserving the neighborhood's history and resilience. Numerous residents spoke in strong support, sharing personal histories, concerns about displacement due to redevelopment and upzoning, and the neighborhood's designation as one of Virginia's most endangered historic places. They highlighted the need for protections against demolition and oversized construction that doesn't match the community's character. The committee approved forwarding the resolution to council with an amendment.
Master Plan Amendment for Oak Grove Hillside Belmead Community Plan Approved for Council Review
The committee reviewed an amendment to the city's master plan to incorporate the Oak Grove Hillside Belmead Community Plan. This plan, developed between 2023 and 2025, sets a vision for the area bounded by Maori, Commerce Road, Belmead, and both sides of Richmond Highway. Its purpose is to guide development and public investment, balancing residential neighborhood protection with development along corridors. The Planning Commission approved the amendment in October 2025. Councilmember Robertson highlighted the plan's evolution and the importance of community engagement. The committee approved forwarding the amendment to council.
City Reviews Partial Tax Exemption Program for Affordable Housing
The committee reviewed the city's partial tax exemption program for affordable housing, noting that in its first five years, it has supported the creation of 52 affordable units, the preservation of 130 affordable units, and the addition of 117 market-rate units. The program has received 20 applications, with 13 approved and 4 completed projects. The financial impact to date for the completed projects is a tax credit of $253,440, with a current revenue impact of $86,976 due to market-rate units. The department plans to continue the program and will work on improving marketing and evaluating potential program changes. Concerns were raised by a council member regarding the 20% investment threshold for single-family homes and its impact on affordability for homeowners at 80% Area Median Income (AMI). The department agreed to review this aspect during the program evaluation. Future steps include updating the city's strategic plan and collaborating with the Department of Economic Development to strengthen the program.
City Committee Approves Amendment to Promote Native Plant Landscaping
The committee considered an amendment to the city code regarding weeds and vegetation, specifically to exempt Virginia-friendly landscapes and native plants from existing lawn height regulations. The changes aim to simplify language, remove individual certification requirements, and clarify rules around woody debris. The Office of Sustainability will increase outreach and engagement, including community meetings and presence at district events, to educate residents about this type of landscaping. The ordinance is intended to help residents who are already implementing native landscaping avoid violations and to provide an easier, less maintenance-intensive option for yard upkeep. Supporters highlighted its potential to promote native plants, pollinators, and assist aging adults with yard maintenance. The committee approved forwarding the ordinance to council with an amendment.
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