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ECD Daily News Updates
Submitted by dubosema on Wed, 08/08/2012 - 11:37
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Economic & Community Development News
Amazon's Project in Richmond
Please see the link to the Governor's Press Release announcing Amazon's new project in the City of Richmond.
Lead Based Paint Hazard Control Program
The RVA Lead-Based Hazard Control Program is a FREEprogram funded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to control health hazards caused by lead based paint in housing built before 1978 where children under 6 or pregnant woman reside. (Read More)
French Company Locates in City BioTech Park
February 22nd, 2019
HalioDX, a French biotech company, has located it's first U.S. CLIA facility in the city of Richmond's BioTechnology Park, bringing 20 new jobs and $1 million of investment to the city. Click here to learn more.
A Chesterfield County small business consulting firm relocates to the city
Oct. 17: EDGe Business Planning relocates from Chesterfield County to a new office in the city's Fan district. Read more.
Construction Equipment Company relocating to city from county
Oct. 4: Rental Works, a construction equipment rental company, is moving it's headquarters from Henrico to Manchester. The company is purchasing 1500 Commerce Road, a 184,000 SF facility that they plan to redevelop, modernize, and lease out extra space to other tenants. Learn more.
Cohousing condo project to break ground in Manchester
Oct. 29: A new condo project in Manchester is in development, which will be a four-story, 19-unit property in Manchester. Read more.
New six-story development to be built in Scott's Addition
Oct. 24: A New $20 million apartment project is being planned in Scott's Addition, featuring 118 apartment units. Read more.
$32 Million project to bring hundreds of apartments near Virginia Union University
Sept. 25: Richmond-based general contractor Loughridge & Company Construction Services is planning to construct a $32 million, 224-unit apartment complex at 2009 Brook Road near Virginia Union University. Read more.
Medical cannabis operation coming to Manchester
Sept. 27: A Maryland-based company has chosen South Richmond as the site of one of Virginia's first medical cannabis oil dispensaries. Read more.
Ippon, a French tech company expands in Scott's Addition
Sept. 19: Ippon, a French tech company, is doubling it's footprint with a relocation from Shockoe Bottom to Scott's Addition. Read more.
Need Supply Triples HQ Space in Scott's Addition
Aug. 29: Need Supply Co., a rapidly growing retailer is expanding its headquarters with 20,700 SF of additional space in Scott's Addition. Read more.
Ocean Network Express, global transport company to invest and expand in city
Aug. 22: Ocean Network Express, a global transport company, will invest $2.2 million to expand its regional headquarters in the city of Richmond, creating 129 new jobs. Richmond's commercial assets and proximity to the Port of Virginia positions this global company for continued growth in the U.S. market. Read more.
ZZQ Named Some of the Best Barbecue in the Country - and the Best in Virginia
July 25th, 2018: Scott's Addition's ZZQ was named as Virginia's best barbecue but also made Food and Wine Magazine's nationwide top BBQ list. Read more.
Thalhimer Snags Broad Street Office Building, Mulls Redevelopment
July 20th, 2018: Fresh off a $5 million acquisition last month near The Diamond, a local development firm has made another property grab in the city – this time on the edge of Scott's Addition. Read more.
Brookland Park Apparel Company Sells Building at a Profit, Moves Up the Street
July 20th, 2018: A year after setting up shop in Northside, a local retailer has outgrown its home and is moving a few blocks over while staying in the same neighborhood. Read more.
Richmond Receives Enhanced Credit Rating Outlook
July 12th, 2018: This week, Moody's revised upward its credit rating outlook for the City of Richmond, from "stable" to "positive," and reaffirmed the city's credit rating of "Aa2," citing strong trajectories in the city's finances and growing economy. Read More.
New Office at VCU is Nurturing Startups to Bring More Faculty Inventions to Market
From new cancer therapeutics to virtual reality surgical tools, innovations created at Virginia Commonwealth University represent not only economic opportunities for the Richmond region, but can have the potential to improve health care and save lives around the globe. That's why VCU is pitching in to help develop them. Read More.
Restaurants Booming in Jackson Ward
July 11th, 2018: A number of new restaurants in Jackson Ward have been rising to prominence. See what's cooking here.
SAIC Hiring 75 New Employees at Downtown Richmond Office as Part of State IT Management Contract
Reston-based government contractor Science Applications International Corp. is hiring 75 people at an office in downtown Richmond as part of the company's contract to coordinate the state's information technology systems. Read more.
Dominion Energy Files Plans for Second Downtown Tower
July 10th, 2018: With construction of its new office tower well underway, Richmond's resident utility giant is beginning to cue up a potential sister structure next door. Read more.
Virginia Ranked #1 for Higher Education by Smart Asset
July 6, 2018: In their fourth annual study, Smart Asset found Virginia to be the best state for higher education. This comes as no surprise as the commonwealth boasts institutions like the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Virginia Commonwealth University, William & Mary, and George Mason. Read more.
Mayor Stoney Celebrates 521 Biscuits & Waffles Ribbon Cutting
June 6th, 2018: Mayor Stoney joined officials from the City's Department of Economic and Community Development and the Office of Minority Business Development this morning to celebrate the recipients of the first loan under the City's new Micro-Enterprise Loan Program. Read more.
Greater Richmond was the focus of Chief Executive's article on the trending Middle Office Strategy
June 15th, 2018: Richmond was the focus of an article on the trending Middle Office Strategy. With it companies can save 15-20% on operating costs. Read more.
166-unit apartment building planned for West Broad Street in Scott's Addition
June 6th, 2018: A 166-unit apartment complex is being planned for a site at West Broad Street and Summit Avenue where a former SunTrust Bank branch building is located and a brewery was once proposed. Read more.
Virginia State University named nation's top HBCU
June 29th, 2018: Virginia State University, located in Richmond's neighboring Petersburg, was just recognized as the US' top HBCU. Read more.
Thalhimer Realty Partners starts construction on next phase of mixed-use project in Manchester
June 6th, 2018: Thalhimer Realty Partners Inc. (TRP), the investment and development subsidiary of Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer, has started construction on City View Marketplace, the next phase of its City View Landing development in Manchester. Read more.
Marketing firm plants flag on W. Broad
May 31, 2018: After a decade in the suburbs, a local branding and marketing firm has traded its founder's home office for space in Richmond's Bookbindery Building. Read More.
Richmond's Maymont selected as Virginia's best park
May 30, 2018: In a roundup of America's best parks by state, Richmond's Maymont takes the cake for Virginia. Read more.
Bank to beef up presence in revamped James Center
May 30, 2018: A South Carolina-based bank is looking to make a bigger impression in downtown Richmond – in turn giving the James Center owners a new tenant to build around as heavy renovations continue in one of the complex's three towers. Read more.
Scott's Addition property sells for $3.82 million; new owner has plans for future development
A Washington developer who searched three years for property in Richmond's Scott's Addition neighborhood bought a nearly 3-acre parcel with plans for future development. Read more.
Forbes ranks Richond on of the 10 coolest cities to visit in 2018
Feb. 26, 2018: According to Forbes, "Virginia's historic capital is buzzing with young energy and signature southern charm." Read more.
Curbed.com ranks Richmond as a top 5 rising U.S. city where homeownership is affordable
Feb. 18, 2018: Curbed.com notes that Richmond is "adding millenials at nearly double the average rate of other U.S. cities," and boasts affordable housing, a solid knowledge base from local universities, and top-tier employers like Amazon, Capital one, and Facebook. Read more.
Five new tenants added at VA Bio+Tech Park in downtown Richmond
The VA Bio+Tech Park in downtown Richmond has five new tenants, including a firm developing a gel patch for repairing perforated eardrums and a company developing renewable chemicals used to make everyday products. Read more.
Deepwater Industrial Park will feature up to 1.5 million SF of BTS warehouse space
Local developer Hourigan Group announces that they will be developing Deepwater Industrial Park, located along the I-95 corridor near the Richmond Marine Terminal. The 110-acre site will feature up to 1.5 million S.F. of build-to-suit, high-bay warehousing space and is an ideal location for companies seeking a prime East Coast destination hub.
Lonely Planet names Richmond a top 10 destination for 2018
Feb. 6, 2018: "From humdrum to happening." Lonely Planet names Richmond a top 10 destination for 2018. Read more.
Fodor's Travel lists Richmond among '10 U.S. cities with an unexpectedly international foodie scene'
Feb. 1, 2018: According to Richmond Times Dispatch, Fodor's Travel lists Richmond among '19 U.S. cities with an unexpectedly international foodie scene. Read more.
VinePair Ranks Richmond the Top Beer Destination in the World for 2018
Jan. 29, 2018: VinePair names Richmond the top beer destination in the world for 2018. Read more.
Richmond makes list of best cities for a fresh start
Feb. 22, 2018: Inman.com reports on a new study by online lendinge exchange LendingTree that Richmond, VA ranks 9th as a best U.S. for a fresh start. The study included eight elements that would impact a person's launch in a new city, including the cost of housing, median income, and rates of health insurance coverage. Read more.
Coming in 2020: VCU Engineering School's new Engineering Research Building
Feb. 21, 2018: Coming in 2020, VCU's Engineering School is building it's new 133,000 SF engineering research building, significantly expanding the school's laboratory capacity. Read more.
Richmond Ranked #1 Top Beer Destinations in the World for 2018
Vinepair.com ranks Richmond, VA as the #1 top beer destination in the world for 2018. Ahead of cities such as Seoul, South Korea, Chicago, Beijing, and New York City, Richmond is noted for going from one to 22 craft breweries in less than 10 years in just the city itself. Read more.
City Issues Request for Proposals for Major Downtown Redevelopment Project
Richmond, VA- Mayor Levar M. Stoney today formally announced that the city has posted a Request for Proposals (RFP) to spur redevelopment of a significant portion of real estate located in the neighborhood north of Broad Street in downtown Richmond.
The RFP addresses a project area that is generally bounded on the west by North 5th Street, on the north by East Leigh Street, on the east by North 10th Street and on the south by East Marshall Street. The project area consists of properties that have been identified as an economic opportunity area in the Pulse Corridor Plan, which was recently adopted by City Council as part of the City's Master Plan.
The North of Broad/Downtown Neighborhood Redevelopment Project will include a number of economic development components aimed at revitalizing underutilized city assets and improving the quality of life for Richmond residents in the areas of employment, housing and transportation.
Components to be addressed by potential respondents include:
* A replacement for the Richmond Coliseum
* Mixed income and affordable housing
* Local job creation and local hiring with Minority Business Enterprise and ESB participation goals
* A replacement of the GRTC transfer station
* A Convention Center hotel
* Historic preservation and adaptive reuse of the Blues Armory
"The goals of this RFP are bold," said Mayor Stoney, but provide an opportunity to achieve a number of strategic objectives for the City. "To expand economic development and affordable housing opportunities; to generate revenue while achieving poverty mitigation through jobs and training; to provide historic preservation and community revitalization, to promote and support tourism, and to ensure sustainable development and investments in infrastructure."
But Mayor Stoney made it clear that the City will not entertain any proposals that require the city to use its existing tax revenue or debt capacity to fund the project. The City will not incur any moral or general obligation bonds to fund any private component of a proposal, but is willing to consider proposals that incorporate tax increment financing or the creation of special service districts.
"We have too much to do for schools, housing, roads and other city priorities to leverage our limited borrowing capacity for this redevelopment," Mayor Stoney said.
Prospective developers will have 90 days to submit proposals. City officials expect this to be a highly competitive process. A copy of the RFP can be found here.
"We are setting a high bar for our respondents," said Mayor Stoney. "But that's what we have to do if we want true neighborhood revitalization. This is a great opportunity for our city, and we want all of Richmond to benefit. By leveraging City-owned land, we can achieve transformational change. We look forward to receiving proposals that will continue our growth and serve the best interests of Richmond."The City of Richmond is please to release a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the North of Broad/Downtown Neighborhood Redevelopment Project, an opportunity to redevelop a major portion of the City's downtown area.
New York Daily News calls Richmond 'one of the East Coast's most intriguing cities'
The New York Daily News says on Friday, October 7th that "Richmond, Virginia is transforming from parochial to cool, and one of the East Coast's most intriguing cities." Read more.
"Amid vibrant neighborhoods, delectable dining and palpable energy, I meet the new Richmond"
Darling Magazine features the city of Richmond in it's September 9, 2017 article, "Why Old is New Again in Richmond, VA." Author Valeria L. Palmertree writes, "It quickly becomes apparent, as I hop from shop to gallery to coffeehouse to museum, that I'm exploring a hotbed of creativity. As I meet locals along the way, I excitedly realize that it's a hyper-creative class of female entrepreneurs who are painting the town with newfound style." Read more.
Men's Journal asks, is Richmond America's next great beer town?
Men's Journal features an article describing Richmond as having "transformed from a relatively dry city into a micro beer mecca," ranking as one of the top craft breweries per-capita cities in the country. Learn more.
Net-zero engineering firm plants flag in Richmond
Richmond Bizsense reports that Net-zero engineering firm CMTA locates office in the city of Richmond's Scott's Addition neighborhood. Learn more.
Richmond ranked the third top mid-sized American cities of the future for FDI investment
Richmond, Virginia was ranked by fDi Intelligence's American Cities of the Future 2017/2018 as the third top mid-sized American city for economic potential, seventh for business friendliness, and third overall. Learn more.
University of Richmond ranked number 61 in Wall Street Journal's list of top colleges
The University of Richmond was ranked number 61 in the Wall Street Journal's list of top 1,000 colleges. Read more.
CoStar Group announces $2.5 million gift to VCU to endow chair in real estate analytics
CoStar Group, the leading commercial real estate research company in the country, announces a $2.5 million gift for VCU to endow a chair in real estate analytics. Learn more.
Thomson Reuters opens downtown Richmond office, with up to 60 new jobs
Thomson Reuters, an international media and information company, announced on September 6, 2017, that it would open a cyber fusion center in downtown Richmond. Richard Puckett, the company's vice president of security, operations and stategy said, "Virginia represents a large and diverse workforce opportunity...we're excited to get started with our operations here." Learn more.
Conde Nast Traveler names Richmond 1 of the best places to travel in November - in the world
Conde Nast Traveler magazine put together a list of the six best places to travel to in November and Richmond is number five on the list. Richmond was chosen chiefly for Fire, Flour & Fork, the four-day gathering for the food curious, which takes place Nov. 2-5. The magazine says, "Since it first started three years ago, four0day foodie fest has delivered boldfaced names from the kitchen world to cool-kid city Richmond." Read more.
Entrepreneur.com lists Richmond as third on list of booming cities
Entrepreneur.com has listed Richmond as third on its list of booming cities. Learn more.
The Princeton Review ranks University of Richmond as the #1 Best-Run College
The Princeton Review recently ranked the University of Richmond as the best-run college and #6 for both best classroom experience and most beautiful campus. Learn more.
Panattoni Development Co., plans 1 million SF spec warehouse along Commerce Road
California-based development firm Panattoni Development Co., is planning to construct one of the largest warehouses in South Richmond. The 1 million-square-foot speculative warehouse will be located on 62 acres at 4701 Commerce Road, at the Bells Road exit off Interstate 95. Learn more.
Zagat says Richmond 'is carving out a culinary niche all its own,"
Zagat, the national restaurant guide, writes in it's latest piece, "10 must-try restaurants and bars in Richmond," that "Distinct from other regional Mid-Atlantic cities like Washington, DC and Baltimore, Richmond, Virginia, is carving out a culinary niche all its own." Learn more.
Richmoned Named Among Best Cities for Black Entrepreneurs
Online magazine Rolling Out ranks the city of Richmond 9th in its top 20 list of best places for black entrepreneurs. Richmond joined cities like Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Miami, and Baltimore in the top 10. Learn more.
Ippon Technologies USA Continues to Expand in Shockoe Bottom
Ipon Technologies USA, a subsidiary of a Paris-based technology consulting firm, originally chose to locate it's first U.S. headquarters operation in the city of Richmond in 2014. Since then, the company has expanded staffing twice, and continue to look to grow in the city. Learn more.
Richmond Ranks 10th in "Silicon Valley Shake-Up: These Are the Next Top Tech Towns"
On April 24, 2017, realtor.com ranked Richmond as one of the next top tech towns. Learn more.
SWaM-certified Karn Custom Woodwork to Invest $2.5 Million to Expand in City of Richmond
On April 27, 2017, Governor Terry McAuliffe and Mayor Levar M. Stoney announced that Karn Custom Woodwork (KCW), an architectural millwork manufacturing and installation company, will invest $2.55 million to expand its headquarters and manufacturing operation in the city of Richmond. Virginia sucessfully competed against Maryland and Washintgon, D.C., for the project, which will create 30 new jobs. Learn more.
2nd Life Plans to Invest Nearly $1 Million and Create 66 New Jobs in the City of Richmond
On April 26, 2017, Secretary of Commerce Todd Haymore and Mayor Levar M. Stoney announced that 2nd Life, Inc., will be investing nearly $1 million in the city of Richmond, and creating 66 new jobs. Learn more.
Capital One Buys Future Business Incubator Building in Shockoe Bottom
Capital One Financial Corp. has bought a building in Shockoe Bottom that two local businessmen are planning to turn into an incubator for startup businesses. Capital One plans to occupy two floors of the building and lease space back to Startup Virginia. The incubator will be on three floors. Learn more.
City of Richmond Retains its AA+ Credit Rating from Fitch Ratings
The City of Richmond has retained it's AA+ credit rating from Fitch Ratings. That is just one step below the highest possible rating. Learn more.
City of Richmond's The Veil Brewing Co. Named One of the "Best New Breweries in America"
Richmond's The Veil Brewing Co., made Thrillist's list of the 14 best breweries to open in America in the past 18 months. Learn more.
Southern Living Magazine Names Richmond One of the South's Best Cities of 2017
Southern Living Magazine ranks Richmond one of the best cities in the south, noting "Off-the-radar Richmond has the South paying attention." Learn more.
TemperPack to Expand Richmond HQ and Manufacturing Operations in the City of Richmond
TemperPack, a manufacturer of sustainable packaging technology for perishable goods, will invest $2 million to expand its headquarters and manufacturing operation in the city of Richmond, creating 23 new jobs. "Our mission is to help companies deliver more to consumers while wasting less. There's no better place than Richmond to achieve this - great employee talent, a rich tradition of high quality manufacturing, incredibly supportive government and close proximity to major highways that make distribution easy," said TemperPack co-founder Brian Powers. Learn more.
Fortune 500 Owens & Minor Brings 500 Jobs to Downtown Richmond
Mayor Levar M. Stoney announced today that Owens & Minor, a regionally-based Fortune 500 global healthcare services company, will establish a new Client Engagement Center (CED) in downtown Richmond's Riverfront Plaza. The City of Richmond successfully competed against 60 other cities around the nation to win the project. Learn more.
New barge is latest investment in Richmond Marine Terminal's potential
Richmond Times Dispatch reports that a new 309-foot, $2 million barge, paid its first visit to the Richmond Marine Terminal on Monday, February 6th, unloading 136 containers after making the trip upriver from Norfolk. The new barge can accomodate certain types of cargo, such as refrigerated containers. Read more.
A 'makers' community growing in an old Shockoe Valley building
Channel 6's Mark Holmerg tours a Shockoe Valley manufacturing building used as many as 20 "maker" businesses and other groups. Learn more.
Levar M. Stoney Sworn In As New City of Richmond Mayor
Levar M. Stoney was sworn in as Richmond's 80th mayor on Saturday, December 31st in a ceremony at City Hall. Mayor Stoney, Richmond's youngest ever mayor at age 35, stated, "There is not secret formula to this, no secret recipe, but to work hard every single day and pour my time, my energy, my life into everything I do." Read more.
Richmond Ranked 5th of Traditional Cities with Highest Population Growth at 7.9%
The Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) lists Richmond, Virginia as having the 5th fastest population growth of the largest 25 U.S. traditional cities. The city of Richmond is noted for having a poulation growth of 7.9%, with New Orleans, Seattle, Washington, D.C., and Boston rounding out the top 5, and San Francisco following in 6th place. The national average is 3.8%. Click here to read the full article.
Plan Emerges for a Residential Tower on Grace Street
Style Weekly reports that developers are closing in on a vision to develop a portion of Grace Street into a mixed-use skyscraper that would include 372,000 SF of residential or commercial space, 28,000 SF of ground-level retail space, and 800 parking spaces. Learn more.
Richmond International Airport (RIC) Gets Flights to Pittsburgh Next Year
1140 WRVA reports that Richmond International Airport will have direct flights to Pittsburg begining March 2017. OneJet announced it was adding the once-a-weekday round-trip flights. Learn more.
Richmond Marine Terminal volume up 52% compared to same time last year
Today the Rchmond Times Dispatch reports that the Port of Virginia recorded its busiest month in October, with total volume up about 2 percent over the same month last year. At the Richmond Marine Terminal, volume was up 52 percent compared with the same month last year. Year-to-date, RMT volumne is up 32 percent. Learn more.
CoStar Group selects Richmond for new research and software development center, creating 732 new jobs
On October 24, 2016, Governor Terry McAuliffe and Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced that CoStar Group, the leading provider of commercial real estate information, analytics, and online marketplaces, will invest $8.17 million in a new research and software development center in Richmond, creating 732 new jobs. Learn more.
Levar Stoney Wins Five Districts to Become Mayor-Elect of the City of Richmond
On Wednesday, November 9th, the results of the City of Richmond Mayoral race confirmed that Levar Stoney won five districts and became the Richmond mayor-elect. Stoney will take office on December 31, 2016. Learn more.
Washington, DC financial services firm chooses Richmond
ICMA-RC, a Washington, DC-based financial services firm has picked the city of Richmond as it's new office location, adding 200-250 new jobs. Learn more.
Richmond named one of the top 20 cities in America to start a business
According to CNBC.com's list of America's best places to start a business, Richmond ranked number 11. CNBC states, "Richmond offers entrepreneurs the best of both worlds: an educated workforce, low costs, both government agencies and private-sector companies as potential customers, as well as a thriving outdoor lifestyle, great restaurants and cost-of-living advantages." Read more.
Carytown ranked in top "hip" retail markets in North America
Carytown named one of the 15 trendiest retail markets in the country. Learn more here.
According to Zillow, more millenials live alone in Richmond than in any other major U.S. metro
The Zillow report shows that 15% of people aged 23 to 34 live alone in Richmond. The report credits Richmond's strong labor market, which has grown 3.6 percent year over year, and relatively high incomes in this age group for the reason for a high percentage of millennials are living alone. Read more.
Atlanta company opens Richmond office, plans to hire 100 employees
Richmond Times Dispatch reports that Atlanta-based consulting firm Thought Logichas chosen the city of Richmon's Shockoe Slip to expand their company with the goal of hiring 100 Richmond-area workers within three to five years. Learn more.
Men's Journal calls Richmond 'the modern cultural capital of the South'
In Men's Journal's recent piece titled "Richmond: The Four-Day Weekend," the magazine highlighted Richmond's food scene and outdoor activities. Learn more.
Richmond ranked one of most underrated music cities in America by thrillist.com
Thrillist.com just ranked Richmond, VA as one of the most underrated music cities in the country. Read more.
Scott's Addition may see two high rise and high-end apartments
Two veteran developers are proposing two 10-story towers totally 258 rsidential units at 1400 Roseneath Road that would convert from apartments to condominiums over time. Learn more about this $60 million proposed project here.
The Wall Street Journal: The Beer Geek's Guide to Richmond, Virginia
April 5, 2016: The Wall Street Journal featured an article about Richmond, Virginia's thriving beer scene, featuring Cask Cafe and Market, Station 2, Mekong, Hardywood and Lickinghole Creek. Read more.
Out-of-town buyer plans nearly 200 apartments in Shockoe Bottom
Shockoe Realty Ventures LLC recently purchased 1-acre at 1903 E. Marshall Street with plans to construct 178 apartments. Learn more.
Update: The Affordable Housing Trust Fund FY16 Application Date Extended
The Richmond Affordable Housing Trust Fund Application deadline has been extended to January 21, 2016. For more information, click here.
The City's Affordable Housing Trust Fund Application is now available
The City of Richmond's Affordable Housing Trust Fund application is now available. To learn more and download the application package documents, please click here.
Molecular diagnostics firm moving from N.Y. to Richmond research park
Thermal Gradient, Inc., which designs and develops devices that perfirm nucleic acid tests, is moving from Rochester, NY to the city of Richmond's Virginia Biotechnology Research Park. Learn more.
Developers kick off another downtown rehab
Duke Property Management plans to renovate the 10,700 SF building at 118 N. Thurd Street, adding 13 one-bedroom apartments and a 550-SF commercial space. Learn more.
Bikers rev up apparel venture in Scott's Addition
Worse for Wear, a women's motorcycle apparel company has purchased 3012 W. Broad Street and is renovating the three-story building. Learn more.
New coffee roaster brewing in Scott's Addition
Ironclad Coffee Roasters is moving into 2904 W. Moore Street in Scott's Addition. The company plans to roast between 150 and 200 pounds of coffee each week. Learn more.
New businesses spawn revitalization along Brookland Park Blvd
StreetCar Cafe, a new coffee shop along Brookland Park Boulevard, held its grand opening celebration on July 13, 2015. Learn more.
Towering bank building half way through reconstruction
The conversion of one of Richmond's most iconic skyscrapers is halfway complete. The Central National Bank building is being redeveloped by Washington D.C.-based developer Douglas Development Corp. into 200 apartments, as well as retail space. Learn more.
New brewery planned for Scott's Addition
The Veil Brewing Co. has signed a lease for 11,000 SF at 1301 Roseneath Road, in Scott's Addition. Learn more.
Six Richmond-area firms make Fortune 500 list
Six Richmond region firms made the Fortune 500 listing, with two being headquartered in the city - Dominion Resources and MeadWestvaco. Learn more.
Shipping company relocating to Manchester
A local shipping company is moving to Manchester to be close to potential employees and multiple transportation options. Learn more.
Developers plan $24 million Shockoe Bottom project
A new five-story, $24 million project to bring 160 new apartment units to Shockoe Bottom is underway. Learn more.
Richmond named on of "America's 8 most overlooked small cities"
The website Thrillist ranked Richmond as one of America's 8 most overlooked small cities. Learn more.
Richmond named one of America's fittest cities.
Richmond ranked as one of America's fittest cities. Learn more.
Rappahannock restaurant crab cale named one of best in the country
Food & Wine magazine ranked the best crab cakes in the country and Rappahannock's ranked #1 in the country. Learn more.
TowneBank picks Gateway Plaza for its Richmond headquarters
TowneBank plans to locate its Richmond headquarters in the 18-story Gateway Plaxa building, currently underway in the city's downtown business district. Learn more.
Richmond ranked one of the top 25 cities to find a job, according to Glassdoor
Richmond was ranked 23rd out of 25 as one of the top cities to find a job, according to Glassdoor. Learn more.
American Express Travel names Richmond as the #1 city to visit this summer.
American Express Travel names Richmond the top most popular city to visit this summer. Learn more.
The City of Richmond's Richmond Community High ranked the 8th top high school in Virginia
Richmond's Community High School is ranked the 8th best high school in Virginia by U.S. News & World Report. Learn more.
Local biotech company moves operations to research park
Ampli BioPhiSciences Corp. has moved its office from the Innsbrook Corporate Center to the downtown research park. Learn more.
Personal injury Law Firm Burett & Williams Expands into Richmond
Virginia personal injury law firm Burnett & Williams has opened an office in the heart of Richmond's Arts & Cultural District. Learn more.
Cooking Light Magazine names South of the James as the best market in Virginia
Cooking Light Magazine names the South of the James Farmers Market in the city's Forest Hill Park, as the best market in Virginia. Learn more.
Outside Magazine names Richmond one of the best cities for Paddle Boarding
As the only urban area with Class IV rapids right in town, Outside Magazine names Richmond as the best city for whitewater paddleboarding. Learn more.
Richmond ranked as the 3rd best city for doughnuts in country
Foursquare ranked "America's Best Donut Shops" and Richmond's Sugar Shack at 1001 N. Lombardy St. comes in at number 7. LAlso, Richmond is ranked third best city for donuts. Learn more.
Renovated train shed at Main Street Station envisioned as "wonderful gateway" to Richmond
The third phase of an $86 million project to rehabilitate historic Main Street Station and it's train shed is underway. Future plans call for an indoor market, tourism center, and event space. Learn more.
Peter Chang to open restaurant on Broad Street in Scott's Addition
Peter Chang - acclaimed chef and James Bear Best Chef Mid-Atlantic semifinalist - announced the location of his new restaurant in the city of Richmond at 2816 W. Broad Street. Read more.
Local start-up WealthForge wins $100,000 from AOL co-founder Steve Case, plans to move downtown
Local start-up Wealthforge, a local start-up, was awarded a $100,000 grant by AOL co-founder Steve Case. The company stated it will use its winnings to move its offices downtown. "We really want to put it into use to open an 8,000 square-foot office in Richmond, downtown." Learn more.
Alton Lane moves headquarters from NYC to Scott's Addition
Alton Lane, a maker of custom shirts, suits, blazers and trousers, has relocated its headquarter operations from New York City to Scott's Addition. Learn more.
New 8-Story, 76-unit apartment project planned for Shockoe Bottom
A new, 8-story, 76-unit, $12.5 million project is planned at 1817 E. Main Street in Shockoe Bottonm, as well as a second 2-srory mixed-use building fronting Main Street ,which will offer a 1,500 SF commercial space. Learn more.
Richmond Named a Top Place to Relocate
Reported by the Huffington Post, Lincoln Property Company listed Richmond, Virginia as a Top 10 City for Relocation based on the city's nightlife, culture, food, weather and rent costs. Learn more.
Site Selection Magazine lists Greater Richmond Partnership as a top 10 economic development group
The Greater Richmond Partnership has been named as one of the "Top Economic Development Groups of 2014" from Site Selection magazine. Learn more.
Walmart opens new campus-format store near VCU
On April 29, 2015, Walmart opened a 4,100 square foot store, the fifth and largest, of the new campus-format shops operated by Arkansas-based Walmart. Learn more.
Singapore Firm Chooses Port of Richmond
Singapore-based R1 International, a natural rubber supplier, is planning to haul its product past its Norfolk base and into the Port of Richmond by the end of May. Read more.
Dominion Tops Utility Sector on Forbes' "America's Best Employers" List
Dominion, headquartered in the city of Richmond, is the top-ranked U.S. utility on Forbes magazine's 2015 "America's Best Employers" list. The company ranked 37th overall among the 500 employers in 25 industries that were included on the list, and was the top-ranked employer among all industries in Virginia. Read more.
City growing at faster rate than surrounding suburbs
According to new U.S. Census data released today, the city of Richmond had an estimated population of 217,853 on July 1, 2014, a 6.7 percent increase since the 2010 census. That is a greater percentage of growth than experienced by surrounding counties. Read more.
Richmond named one of 50 Best Places to Live in US by Men's Journal
Richmond was named one of the 50 Best Places to Live in the US by Men's Journal as well as a "Best City for Food." Learn more.
Accounting firm to move into the James Center
Dixon Hughes Goodman, one of the nation's top 20 accounting firms, is moving its main Richmond-area operations from Henrico County into One James Center in downtown Richmond. Learn more.
Main Street Station named one of the 11 most beautiful train stations in America
Popular lifestyle website Thrillist has named the city of Richmond's Main Street Station as one of the 11 most beautiful train stations in America. Read more here.
New meadery opens in Scott's Addition
Black Heath has opened a new meadery in Scott's Addition at 1313 Altamont Avenue. Read more here.
Howward Shockey & Sons opens new office in Shockoe Bottom
Howard Shockey & Sons is one of Virginia's largest and oldest general contracting and construction management companies, and is opening a new office in the Shockoe Bottom area. Read more here.
Wood startup up and running in Scott's Addition
Richmond BizSense reports that Surface Architectural Supply, a reclaimed wood manufacturer, is opening a 1,200 SF showroom for its 20,000 SF workshop and office at 1504 Belleville Street. Read more here.
Belle Isle Moonshine Begins Distilling at Manchester Facility
Richmond's Belle Isle Craft Spirits begins distilling its moonshine at its new Manchester Facility. Read more.
Richmond Housing Trust Fund Announcement
The City of Richmond, through the Richmond Housing Trust Fund, announces an availability of funds to provide housing production and housing supportive services targeted to low and moderate income citizens. Funds are intended for projects and programs that are aligned with regional, state and federal plans, and follows best practices to address the housing needs of this population. Click here to learn more.
Richmond Wins Stone Brewing Company!
The City of Richmond has been selected by Stone Brewing Company, the 10th largest craft brewery in the country, for their new east coast manufacturing, distribution, retail, bistro and gardens facility. The company will bring 288+ jobs and $74 million in new investment to the city's Greater Fulton Neighborhood. Click here to learn more.
Another storefront addition to Scott's Addition
A Richmond furniture startup, Paisley & Jade, a 2-year-old furniture and decor rental company has recently leased 4,800 SF in Scott's Addition. Read more.
New Apartment Complex in Shockoe Bottom Offers Bold Addition to Downtown
Style Weekly reports on the new Terrace 202 apartment complex, a four-story, 57-unit apartment structure in the city's Shockoe Bottom. Learn more.
Ocean shipping firm ZIM USA adds service at Port of Richmond
ZIM USA, one of the world's largest shipping companies, will offer Richmond a pickup and delivery point to its client shippers, according to the Virginia Port Authority. Shippers using ZIM at the Port of Richmond will have access to the 180 ports the ocean carrier serves. Read more.
Manchester Gaining Momentum
The Richmond Times Dispatch reports that about 3,700 apartments have been built in Manchester in the past 10 years and 1,200 more are under construction. Learn more.
A New Butchery and Bar Coming to Church Hill
Metzger Bar and Butchery is setting up shop at 801 N. 23rd Street and plans for a May opening. The 1,400 SF space will serve German-style food and retail cuts of meat, sausages and wine. Read the full Richmond BizSense article here.
In Scott's Addition, Growth Blends with Grit
The Richmond Times Dispatch writes about the Scott's Addition neighborhood, fast becoming a new business, residential and retail hub, as well as a new location to host large festivals. Learn more.
Richmond XTERRA to Host Off-Road Nationals as well
Big news for Richmond and off-road triathletes nationwide came out of U.S.A. Triathlon today. The sport's governining body in America announced that the Richmond XTERRA East Championship off-road triathlon will double as the USAT's Off-Road Nationals as well. Learn more.
City company, ImmunArray, receives NFL grant to further concussion research
A City company, ImmunArray, located in the Virginia BioTechnology Research Park, and in Rehovot, Israel, partnered with General Electric and the NFL to conduct research related to concussions. Learn more.
Developers Begin 5th Downtown Apartment Building Along Canal
Fountainhead Development and WVS Companies are clearing the way for a fifth apartment building at the Locks, a more than $40 million mixed-use development on the Haxall Canal at the former Reynolds North plant. The project is the first new construction at the seven-acre complex, that includes 174 apartments and the Casa del Barco restaurant. Learn more.
Richmond Listed as a Top Healthiest City
Based on a new report, Richmond, Virginia is listed as the 20th most healthy city in the country. Learn more.
City and EDA Announce New $450,000 Facade Improvement Program in City's Arts & Cultural District
This new program has a total funding of $450,000 to assist businesses in the defined Arts & Cultural District. Projects include uncovering and restoring historical facades, removing existing facade materials, and replacing them with more appropriate and attract designs and materials, architectural lighting of the facade and other details. Learn more.
Redskins Summer Camp Yields $10.5 Million in Economic Impact
Results from a study conducted by the Center for Sport Leadership at VCU and Richmond Region Tourism regarding the economic impact of the 2013 Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Camp estimate that the Training Camp had a total estimated economic impact of $10.5 million on the Richmond Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). Learn more.
Richmond Makes Frommer's Top Ten Destinations for 2014
The City of Richmond, Virginia made Frommer's 2014 Top Ten Destinations, with other top choices including Scotland, Bali and Taiwan. Learn more.
Richmond Receives $400,000 in EPA Grants
On Thursday, November 14, 2013, the city of Richmond accepted two grants from the Federal EPA's Brownfields program totaling $400,000. The awards, which are used to survey sites with a risk of past contamination for future development, have previously funded studies for the Main Street Station, the Hippodrome and the Canyon Creek Greenway. Learn more.
Mayor Jones Announces New Baseball Stadium to Locate in Shockoe Bottom
Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced this morning the $200 million plans for a new Shockoe Bottom development that will include a new minor league baseball park, a Kroger grocery store, Hyatt hotel, a $30 million slavery and freedom heritage site, as well as a parking garage, residential and potential office space. Read the full article here and view the official website here.
Richmond Ranked One of Most Creative Mid-Sized Cities in America
Movoto, a national online real estate brokerage out of California, has ranked Richmond as 3rd most creative mid-sized city in America. Learn more.
Richmond Named One of America's Best Small Towns for Food 2013
TheDailyMeal.com just ranked Richmond as one of "America's Best Small Towns for Food 2013." The slideshow article features Belmont Butchery and Comfort. Learn more.
Growing Accounting Firm Chooses to Relocate Downtown
Elliott Davis, a Greenvile, S.C.-based accounting firm, has selected to move its headquarters downtown to Riverfront Plaza because of it's location and recruiting potential. Mark Rudolph, managing shareholder states, "We recruit a lot of young professionals, either out of college or in their 20s and 30s. Obviously, there is a vibrant young professional location downtown." Learn more.
Work Begins on New Riverfront Amenities
Implementation is beginning to take place on the Riverfront Plan, with enginners beginning this week to develop a plan to create a walkway that will extend from Brown's Island to the trails and attractions in Manchester. In addition, international landscape and design firm Hargreaves Associates has been hired to begin design work on the dam walk and terraced steps to the river on Chapel Island. Learn more.
New York Times Features Article on Richmond Mayor's Community Economic Development Campaign
The New York Times featured an article interviewing Mayor Dwight C. Jones on his bold anti-poverty plan entitled Maggie L. Walker Initiative for Fighting Poverty and Expanding Opportunity. Learn more.
City Receives Excellence in Economic Development Award
The City of Richmond's Dept. of Economic & Community Development received a Gold Award of Excellence for its 2012 Commercial Corridor Snapshot brochure. Learn more.
5-Story Apartment Project Set for Downtown
Monument Construction, in a joint venture with Sensei Development, are under contract to buy the eastern corner of First and Canal Streets for a planned five-story apartment building that will include 90 new apartments. Learn more.
Local Law Firm Expands in Downtown
Sands Anderson law firm is expanding in their downtown office space in the Bank of America Center, adding an additional 5,800 SF. Click here to learn more about this as well as other law firm recent expansions in the city.
Wall Street Again Upgrades Richmond Bond Rating
Standard and Poor's (S&P) has upgraded Richmond's general obligation debt rating to AA+, the second highest rating possoble. S&P specificcally praised the City's strong financial performance, including its strong reserves, continued investment in economic development projects, and adopted fiscal and debt policies. Learn more.
City and CultureWorks Announce Arts and Cultural District Micro Grant Program
The City and partner CultureWorks are launching the Arts and Cultural District Micro Grant Program. Two categories are available - project support and capital improvement grants. Learn more.
Public Input Requested for Transforming the 17th Street Farmers' Market
Two community workshops will be held to gain input on the future transformation of the 17th Street Farmers' Market. The first is Tuesday, October 1 from 6-8:30 PM and the second will be Wednesday, October 2 from 9:30 AM to noon, located on the second floor of Main Street Station, 1500 East Main Street. Learn more.
The Travel Channel Showcases Where to Eat Near Richmond's Convention Center
The Travel Channel highlights the "cosmopoitan eateries" that are popping up around downtown's Convention Center, including Lemaire, Mama J's, Pasture, Perly's and Rappahannock. Learn more.
VCU Welcomes 3,600 new Incoming Freshmen
Virginia Commonwealth University, one of Virginia's largest universities, is welcomming 3,600 new freshman students to its downtown campuses this week. Of this class, 37% are from northern Virginia, 20% are from the Richmond area, and 46% are minority students. Learn more.
Redskins Training Camp - By the Numbers
The Washington Redskins Training Camp drew more than 155,000 attendees over it's two-week span, breaking attendance records along the way. To review additional statistics and numbers, click here.
US Travel Association's Premier Convention to be Hosted in Richmond
Richmond is the host city for this week's U.S. Travel Association Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations, which is estimated to draw a record-breaking 650+ tourism destination professionals at the state, regional, and local level. The ESTO conference is expected to have an economic impact of nearly $1 million over the span of only three days. Learn more.
Redskins and Health Diagnostic Laboratory Team Up
Health Diagnostic Laboratory has struck an deal to be the new health and wellness provider for the Washington Redskins. As part of the agreement, HDL will make its cardiometabolic testing and clinical health consulting services available to th team's players, coaches and staff. Learn more.
Two New Hotels Planned for Downtown Office Building
An 18-story office tower at 700 East Main Street in downtown Richmond will be converted into two hotels, a 144-room Hampton Inn & Suites and a 100-room Homewood Suites. Learn more.
New York Magazine Highlights Richmond
The August 9th edition of the Weekend Travel section of the New York Magazine highlights the city of Richmond, noting the city's "revitalized neighborhoods, new cultural attractions, and a rising culinary scene, that are rejuvenating Virginia's capital." Learn more.
Richmond International Airport Ranked One of North America's Most Efficient Airports
A study conducted by a team of itnernational aviation experts at the University of British Columbia in Canada ranked Richmond International Airport as one of the most efficient airports in North America. Learn more.
Richmond Featured on Weblog for Best Street Art in the World, 2013
Popular blog Buzzfeed features Richmond's Etam Cru mural on a 7-Eleven in Richmond, Virginia as #3 on it's list of best street art in the world. Learn more.
Bruce Allen thinks Redskins are blazing a training-camp trail
The Washington Post reports that Bruce Allen thinks the training camp in Richmond, which is the first inner city training camp in the country, will become the benchmark for future camps across the country. "I think we have a a training camp setting - in the innter city, in your home base - that other teams ought to follow and try to duplicate in the future." Learn more.
Richmond Murder Rate at Historic Low
According to ABC Channel 8 News, the city of Richmond's crime rate is at its lowest level in 30 years. Learn more.
Richmond Named a Hot U.S. City for Jobs and Culture
The Daily Beast ranked the American cities that are hot for both jobs and culture and ranked Richmond as #7. Learn more.
$20 Million Available to Revitalize Richmond's Distressed Neighborhoods
The City's Department of Economic & Community Development announced on Tuesday, July 30, low cost loans to support neighborhood revitalization efforts. Learn more.
City Looks to Fill Funding Gap for Developers
The City is hosting a breakfast on Tuesday, July 30, to discuss the $20 million Economic Development and Housing Revolving Loan Program, aimed at funding both residential and commercial real estate projects in low- and moderate-income areas. Learn more.
Rich What??? Richmond!!!
On Thursday, July 25, the Washington Redskins training camp opened to the public in the city of Richmond, Virginia. Learn more.
Choice Neighborhood Initiative Church Hill North Planning Kick-Off
Please join a community meeting hosted by the City of Richmond, RRHA and The Community Builders that will kick off the comprehensive planning effort designed to transform the Church Hill North community into a "Neighborhood of Choice." Learn more.
Washington Post Writes "A Redskins' Fans Guide To Richmond
The Washington Post features an article that highlight's Richmond's tourism and dining options around the Redskins' training camp. Learn more.
Troutman Sanders Renews Lease in Downtown Richmond
Troutman Sanders LLC, an international law firm with more than 600 lawyers in offices throughout the U.S. and China have renewed their lease at Haxall Point. Learn more.
Thalhimer Realty Partners Buy Scott's Addition Building
Thalhimer Realty Partners Inc., has purchased a 100,000 SF industrial building in Scott's Addition in Richmond and plan to renovate the property at 3200 W Clay Street into an apartment complex with 100 units, including a clubhouse, fitness facility, interior parking and a pool. Learn more.
Redskins Training Center Grand Opening
On Monday, July 8, 2013, the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center held its grand opening, with Joe Theismann attending. The Redskins will begin practicing at the new Richmond facility on July 25 and continue through August 16, with 17 days of team practice open to the public. Click here for images.
More Than $1.15 Billion in New Investment in Downtown Richmond
During Venture Richmond's annual Downtown Development Forum, the developers tallied up their investments and projects and determined that there is more than $1.15 billion in projects underwat, which will bring more than 2,400 residential units and more than 75,000 SF of commercial real estate. Learn more.
Two Richmond Employers Among the Best for People 50+
The AARP and the Society for Human Resource Management has named Bon Secours Virginia Health System and Virginia Commonwealth University as among the top places in the country to work for people older than 50. Learn more.
Upcoming Seminar - Fiscal Awareness Numbers - June 19
On Wednesday, June 19th from 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM, the City is hosting a seminar for business owners interested in learning tips on how to strengthen your company's financial future. Learn more.
Food Republic Magazine Highlights Richmond as Virginia's Culinary Capital
The Food Republic magazine features a story on finding great food in Virginia's (culinary) capital, highlighting city restaurants includintg Mamma 'Zu, Pasture, Edo's Squid and Accacia, among others. Read more.
City of Richmond Population Growing at Faster Rate than Surrounding Counties
Reported by Richmond Times Dispatch, the new U.S. Census Bureau estimates for 2012 determine that the city has grown by 4,169 people, 2.02 percent between July 1, 2011 and July 1, 2012. The new estimated population rises from 204,214 in 2010 to 210,309. Learn more.
Richmond Ranked in Top 10 of Best Cities for College Grads
NBC 12 News reports that the Richmond region is ranked 8th in the U.S. as one of the best cities for recent college graduates based on unemployment rate for college graduates, local wage premium for a college degree, and cost of living. Learn more.
National Geographic Channel Movie "Killing Kennedy" to be Filmed in Richmond
The National Geographic Channel is returning to Richmond to film a historical televsion drama based on "Killing Kennedy," a book written by talk show host Bill O'Reilly. Read more.
Washingtonian Magazine Features Richmond as Great Escape
April, 2013 - Todd Kilman of Washingtonian Magazine features Richmond as one of 15 great escapes, highlighing Richmond's rich dining scene. Read more.
City to Hold Land Use, Transportation & Design Workshop for Manchester Industrial District
The City's Departments of Planning & Development Review and Public Works - Transportation, in conjunction with Kimley-Horn Associates, will hold a two-day Design Workshop to discuss zoning, land use, bulk and massing, character and quality of materials, public improvements, and transportation and parking, as well as design standards for the Manchester Industrial District. Learn more.
Amazon Announces Most Well-Read Cities in USA - Richmond Ranked 18th
Amazon just released their 2013 list of the best-read cities in the US. Pulling data on all the book, magazine, and newspaper sales data for the past 9 months, Richmond ranked 18th. Learn more.
Boston Developer Selected to Redevelop Two of City's Largest Public Housing Commuities
The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) is beginning negotiations with a Boston firm to redevelop Creighton and Whitcomb courts. The company, Community Builders, also built and manages 300 units in Norfolk's Broad Creek development. Learn more.
City Restaurants Take Advantage of New Sidewalk Cafe Permit
Richmond BizSense reports on the newly passed ordinance that makes it easier for city restaurants to offer outdoor dining. Learn more. To access the application, click here and scroll down to the last section of the page titled Sidewalk Cafes.
Richmond's First Cidery Opens in Manchester
Richmond BizSense reports on Blue Bee Cidery opening it's doors in the city's Manchester district on April 20, 2013. Read more.
HDL Expanding in Biotechnology Research Park
Richmond Times Dispatch reports that Health Diagnostics Laboratory is currently undergoing the $25 million project to construct phase two of new office and lab space. Read more.
UCI World Cycling Championship Receives Major Sponsorships from Community Corporations
According to a Richmond BizSense article, March 29, more than a dozen corporations and Richmonders have donated $11 million to the 2015 UCI Road World Championships. Learn more.
Apartment Book Signals Boulevard Revitalization
CBS 6 News reports that The Boulevard area in seeing an economic boom with new businesses, apartments, and the Redskins training camp revitalizing the area. Learn more.
City Minority Business Development Seminars Calendar Online
The City of Richmond Minority Business Development (MBD) Technical Assistance Seminars calendar for March and April 2013 is now posted. Topics include developing a business plan, banking services, credit reporting,and obtaining insurance for small businesses. Learn more.
Historic Skyscraper to be Transformed into Luxury Downtown Housing
Virginia Business reports that Genesis Properties and Armada Hoffler plan to begin the conversion of the 12-story, 700 Centre building into 174 apartments and 18,000 SF of first floor retail in May, 2013. Learn more.
City's Light Industrial District Zoning Changed to Allow for Distilleries and Craft Breweries
Richmond BizSense reports that small-scale distilleries and craft breweries will now be able to manufacturer their products in the city's light industrial districts after a vote on Monday from Richmond City Council. Read the full article here.
Public Notice - FY13-15 Consolidated Plan & FY13-14 Annual Action Plan
In accordance with HUD citizen participation requirements, a 30-day public comment period for the 2013-2015 Consolidated Plan and 2013-2014 Annual Action Plan will begin on March 26, 2013, and will expire on April 24, 2013. To learn more, please click here.
Redskins Camp Has 20,000 SF of Office Space Available
The new Redskins Training Camp will have 20,000 SF of office space on the second floor of the new training camp facility. Click here to read the full article from Work It, Richmond.
VCU Continues to Drive Development
Virginia Business Magazine reports on March 10 that Virginia Commonwealth University continues to attract both private and public development projects to downtown Richmond. To learn more about five new projects underway throughout VCU area, please click here.
City Public Notice: Focus Group Meetings on FY13-15 Three-Year Consolidated Action Plan
The U.S. Dept. of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) requires that all entitlement communities develop a Three or Five Year Consolidated Action Plan. The City will be hosting a series of focus group meetings in March to receive input from residents. Click here to learn more.
Historic Interbake Cookie Factory Project Kicks Off
According to the Richmond BizSense, the Interbake cookie factory will begin conversion into 178 housing units, as well as commercial space beginning this month. Learn more.
Richmond: Virginia's Logistics Capital
The Richmond Times Dispatch discusses how the Richmond metropolitan area is approaching a tipping point in logistics due to its strategic location, infrastructure, and proximity to the deepest-water port on the East Coast. Read the full article here. Watch our Logistics video here.
Proposed Richmond Business Task Force Advances
On Thursday, February 21st, an ordinance led by City Council President Charles R. Samuels, 2nd District, would create a Business, Professional and Occupational License Task Force "to provide expert advice and recommendations to the council and mayor" on how to make the city's business license taxes more competitive with surrounding counties. Read the full article here.
Comedy Club Moves to City's New Arts District
The Richmond Times Dispatch reports that the Richmond Comedy Coalition has leased a 1,700 SF space at 8 W. Broad Street where it plans to open a 60-80-seat theater, which should be open by mid-summer. Read the full article here.
City to Host Entrepreneur Express Workshop, Tuesday, February 26
The City is hosting a business workshop with the Virginia Department of Business Assistance. The workshop will cover how to do business with local, state and federal government agencies, licensing and permits, business financing, marketing, and available resources. To learn more, click here.
Resource Workforce Center Opens Downtown
On February 13, 2013, a new Resource Workforce Center opened in downtown Richmond at 203 East Cary Street. The Center offiers a resource room with access to the internet, printers, faxes, and asisstance with job applications and resumes. Center staff offer career counseling, mock interview training, workshops and other services. Read the full article here.
Richmond Named Top Ten City for Fastest Growing High-Wage Sector
The online website NewGeography.com posted a study of the top cities in the country in terms of professional, technical, and scientific services in the nation's largest metropolitan areas, which Richmond, Virginia ranking 8th. Read the full article here.
Redskins Groundbreaking Celebrated
On February 14, 2013, there was love in the air as Mayor Dwight C. Jones, Governor Bob McDonnell, Bon Secours Health System CEO Peter J. Bernard and Redskins General Manager Bruce Allen joined together for a ceremonial ground breaking at the new Redskins training camp facility. Read the full Richmond Times Dispatch article here.
City Steps Up Business Tax Relief Effort
Richmond BizSense reports that Richmond City Council passed a new law next week that will exempt new companies and businesses that relocate to the city from paying gross receipts taxes, also known as the BPOL tax, for their first two years of operation. The law goes into effect July 1, 2013. Please click here to read the full article.
Capital of Creativity: VCU Art Center Will Ignite, Delight, Enlighten
The Richmond Times Dispatch featured a story on Richmond's burgeoning reputation as a creative hot spot, with the newest addition to that accolade being the plans for the VCU Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA). Click here to read the full article on what new things are happening that make Richmond Virginia's creative capital.
New York Times Highlights Richmond's Grace Street Corridor
In a recent Travel section article within the New York Times, Richmond's Grace Street corridor receives praise for the new performing arts venues and restaurants that are bringing the area back to life. Read the full article here.
More Apartments Planned in Manchester
Richmond BizSense reports that developer Ron Hunt of Genesis Properties filed amended plans with the city to develop 152 new-construction apartments at Bainbridge Street and Commerce Road in Manchester. To read the full article, please click here.
New 15-Story Office Tower Planned for Downtown Richmond
The Richmond Times Dispatch reports on Wednesday, January 30th, that a Chicago-based developer plans to change the Richmond skyline with a 15-story office tower in the heart of the downtown business district. Depending on tenant interest in the $110 million project, the proposed Gateway Plaza could be six stories taller. To read the full article, please click here.
Mayor Jones: City Poised for Great Things
On Tuesday, January 29, 2012, Mayor Dwght C. Jones delivered his State of the City address at Richmond Centerstage. During the presentation he summarized the 4+ years of successes in the city and discussed the future of the city. Click here to read the full Richmond Times Dispatch article.
Mayor to Deliver State of the City Address: Tuesday, January 29
Mayor Dwight C. Jones will deliver the State of the City Address to Richmond residents on Tuesday, January 29th, beginning at 6:30 PM at Richmond CenterStage. Learn more.
New Brewery Soars into Scott's Addition
Richmond BizSense featured a story on a new brewery coming to the city of Richmond and locating in the Scott's Addition neighborhood. Named the Archangel Brewing Company, the company owner, Mike Isley prefers stouts and porters. To read the full article, please click here.
Venture Richmond Unveils New Riverfront Website
Venture Richmond has just launched a new website, www.RVAriverfront.com, which is the "one-stop shop" for all things river-related. The site showcases 40 sites, 70 restaurants and miles of trails and nature. To view the full website, click here.
Washington DC-Based Developer Plans Redevelopment of Central National Bank Building
The Richmond Biz Sense report that Douglas Development Co., stated Friday, January 18, 2013, that the Washington, DC-based developer plans to redevelop the 23-story Central National Bank building into apartments this year. While details are still being worked out, the development will consist of more than 200 apartments and cost about $20 million.
"We think it's a jem," Jemal said. "We love what's happening in the neighborhood, and with every development in the area, it gets a little better. There is no doubt that it is time." To read the ful article, please click here.
Plan to Transform Hull Street for Neighboring Localities
According the the Chesterfield Observer, the final details of a plan to transform a four-mile stretch of Hull Street and surrounding neighborhoods into a pedestrian-friendly, economically thriving area were presented yesterday at a community meeting. Learn more.
Church Hill Becomes Baking Destination
According to today's Work It, Richmond, three bakeries have opened within blocks of each other in the past two months, continuing a legacy of the Nolde Bakery, which produced bread on East Broad Street from the 1890's to 1970's. Learn more.
Almost 1,000 New Apartments Planned in Scott's Addition
Richmond BizSense reported on January 2, 2013 that plans have been filed for a 42-apartment complex at 1700 Summit Avenue, in Scott's Addition. The article also reports on additional apartment developments including 90 apartments at 3031 Norfolk Avenue, and 130 units at the old Richmond Fixture building on Clay Street. Overall, over almost 1,000 new apartments are scheduled to come on the market in Scott's Addition in 2013. Read the full article.
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery Expanding to Meet New Increasing Demand
Richmond BizSense highlights one of Richmond's fastest growing breweries, which has recently purchased property to expand its operations and free space in its existing facility for special events. Read full article here.
Bon Secours' Redskins Deal an Advertising Coup
Richmond Magazine reports on the tangible and intangible benefits the Bon Secours participation in the Washington Redskins training camp deal with have for the healthcare organization. Ther article notes that Forbes magazine recently determined that the Redskins brand is the third most valuable NFL franchise at $1.6 billion. Read full article here.
Biotech Firm Adding 400 New Employees
On December 19, 2012, Richmond BizSense reported that Health Diagnostic Laboratory is moving forward with their second phase of new office space development in order to accomodate the company's growth. To read the full article, please click here.
Richmond Preparing Boulevard for Mixed-Use Redevelopment
Richmond Times Dsipatch reports that on Monday, December 10, Richmond City Council voted to buy two properties on Commerce Road for city and school system use. Chief Administrative Officer Byron C. Marshall said the city hopes to select a developer for the Boulevard property in about six months. A request for proposals is scheduled to go out by the end of March.
Peter Chapman, deputy chief administrative officer said the City envisions a "destination" development similiar to The Town Center of Virginia Beach, which includes a mix of restaurants, offices, apartments, entertainment, hotels and shops.
City Celebrates Holiday Season in Shockoe Bottom
The City of Richmond invites residents to join in the spirit of the season with free holiday events at Main Street Station, The Plaza at Main Street Station and the 17th Street Farmers' Market from 5 to 9 p.m. this Friday, November 30. Learn more.
City Council Approves Riverfront Plan
On Monday, November 26, City Council approved The Riverfront Plan, the city's far-reaching plan to transform the riverfront into a a major community accessible asset through more than $60 million in long-term capital projects including terraced steps, foot bridges, paths, tunnels and other amenities. Click here to read the full Richmond Times Dispatch article.
Washington Redskins Deal Receives Unanimous Approval from City Council
On Monday, November 26, City Council unanimously approved Mayor Dwight C. Jones' economic development package that will build a nearly $9 million training camp facility for the Washington Redskins and allow for two major hospital expansions in the city. Click here to read the full Richmond Times Dispatch article.
City Selected for IBM's Smarter Cities Challenge Grant
On Wednesday, November 14, Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced that IBM has selected the city of Richmond to receive an IBM Smarter Cities Challenge grant. Learn more.
Two Hotels in Shockoe Break Ground
Style Weekly reports on November 8th the groundbreaking ceremony of two Marriott hotels in Shockoe. The site is the location the Virginia legislature in 1786 passed the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, a law written by Thomas Jefferson that guaranteed religious freedom for all Virginia.s The First Freedom Center will transofrm a parking lot into two hotels and a memorial to the landmark law. Read the article.
Downtown Showing New Signs of Life
Work It, Richmond reports on November 11, 2012 that downtown's Broad Street is seeing new life. From new apartments to restaurants to retail establishments, the historic corridor is seeing a revitalization. Read full article.
Mayor Announces Leigh Street As Site for Redskins Summer Training Camp
On Monday, October 22, Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced the City's plan to develop the Leigh Street (Science Museum) site as the new home of the Washington Redskins Summer Training Camp, beginning in 2013. In making the announcement, the Mayor also disclosed that Bon Secours Richmond Health System (BSRHS) and the City have formulated a comprehensive strategy to stimulate new economic development and jobs throughout the city.
To read the full press release, please click here.
Mayor Announces Leigh Street As Chosen Site for Redskins Summer Training Camp
On Monday, October 22, 2012, Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced the city's plan to develop the Leigh Street (Science Museum) site as the new home of the Washington Redskins Summer Training Camp beginning in 2013. In making the announcement, the Mayor also disclosed that Bon Secours Richmond Health System (BSRGHS) and the City have formulated a comprehensive strategy to stimulate new economic development and jobs throughout the city.
Construction firm relocates to former city-owned property
Richmond BizSense reports about the new tenant occupying the restored 100-year-old Manchester Post Office along Hull Street in Manchester. The construction management firm Barton Marlow has leased space in the building to grow and expand its operations. Kevin McMichael, senior project manager, said, "We knew where we wanted to be, and we knew where we didn't want to be. We didn't want to be in a downtown high-rise, and we didn't want to be in an office in Innsbrook." To read the full article, please click here.
Forbes ranks Richmond 8th best city for working mothers
In the October 10, 2012 issue of Forbes Woman, Richmond, Virginia was ranked 8th best city for working mothers.Click here to read the full article.
Online shoe company in Dallas moves to Richmond
Richmond BizSense reports that an online running shoe company, Natural Running Store, which began in Dallas, Texas, chose to relocate to Manchester, in the city of Richmond when they saw that the bulk of their orders were coming from the East Coast.Click here to read the full article.
Handcrafted Denim Shop Opens in Shockoe
RVANews reports that Shockoe Denim owner CEO, Anthony Lupesco, has chosen the city of Richmond as the location for his store that will both display his products and showcase the design process. Read the full article here.
Increased Interest In Cycling a Boost to Local Bike Industry
According to a September 9, 2012 Richmond Times Dispatch article, the area's retail cycling industry anticipates being among the likely beneficiaries of the UCI World Cycling Championships coming to the city of Richmond in 2015.
"I don't think people realize how big this is, " said Tim Mullins, co-owner of Carytown Bicycle Co. in Richmond. "I still can't believe it's coming here."
To read the full article, please click here.
Construction Begins on New VCU Children's Hospital
On Monday, September 9, 2012, the Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery Sees Growth After One year
Click here to read the full Work It, Richmond article on Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, located in north Richmond, and experiencing high demand and need to grow after one year in business.
Richmond Named Best River Town in America by Outside Magazine
In the September issue of Outside Magazine, the city of Richmond is named the Best River Town in America, the "unlikeliest river-recreation mecca in the country. Click here to read the full article.
Meet ECD's Director, Lee Downey
In an August 13, 2012 Richmond Times-Dispatch article, Lee Downey, the director of the city of Richmond's Department of Economic & Community Development (ECD), talks about recent successes and future potential of the city. Click here to read the full article.
Jackson Ward Listed as one of the South's Best Neighborhoods
In the July, 2012 issue of Southern Living Magazine, Jackson Ward has been named one of the South's best neighborhoods. Click here to read the full magazine article.
Owners of Boathouse at Rocketts Landing Sign Lease at Reynolds North
According to the June 27, 2012 Richmond BizSense article, restauranteur Kevin Healy, who started the Boathouse at Rocketts Landing, has signed a lease for 5,700 square feet at the Reynolds North canal walk development in downtown Richmond. To read the full article, please click here.
Port of Richmond Receives Significant Technology Upgrade
Navis, a part of Cargotec Corporation and the global technology standard for managing the movement of cargo through terminals, today announced the Port of Richmond went live with Navis SPARCS N4, mkaing it the second marine terminal in North American to go live with the industry's most advanced terminal operating system (TOS).
Bill Walsh, president and CEO of Navis, LLC stated, "From our long-standing relationship with Port of Virginia-owned sites, we are confident that SPARCS N4 will help Richmond Marine Terminal achieve the operational efficiency they are striving for. As larger ships come into play, terminals will be required to improve their productivity and customer service. By adopting SPARCS N4 platform, The Richmond Marine Terminal will be able to deliver significant benefits to its customers that will help the terminal compete in an increasingly competitive marketplace."
The City Hosts Business Appreciation Event to Honor Local Companies
On June 7, 2012, the city of Richmond's Department of Economic & Community Development recognized eleven local businesses for their contributions to the Richmond business community in calendar year 2011. To learn more and see the listing of awardees, please click here.
City Completes Bond Sale and Obtains Lower Rates
On June 14, 2012, the city of Richmond sold $248.2 million in bonds and refinanced $146.9 million of existing bonds at significantly lowers interest rates. "These lower-than-expected rates are a benefit of the City's strong credit rating, even at a time when many local governments are struggling to maintain their existing credit ratings. The City of Richmond has experienced several bond rating upgrades in the past few years,"stated Mayor Dwight C. Jones. To learn more, please click here.
In a May 16, 2012 CoStar Group Report titled "Apartment Market Shifting Focus to New Supply", Richmond, VA led all national markets for the highest ranking in percentage rise of demand growth of apartment units with a year-over-year gain of 4%. Charlotte, Raleigh, San Antonion and Houston garnered the Other top five spots. To read the full article, please click here.
City Residential Development Continues to Boom
A May 27, 2012 Richmond Times Dispatch article starts out with "Richmond's urban core is bursting with apartments," and ends with "People are coming back to the urban core." Click here to read the full article highlighting some of the 15+ new major development projects, located in the city.
UCI Road World Championships 2015 in Richmond Planning Kicks Into High Gear
On May 26, 2012, the Richmond Times Dispatch reported that a representative from Union Cycliste Internationale, the Swiss-based world governing body, was in town to evaluate the city and to begin preparations for the 1015 championships. Gerrit Middag, the marketing and events director, stated, "I am very happy with what I see." To read the full article, please click here.
Hotel In Shockoe
McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center Evolves to Meet Patient Needs
A May 15, 2012 Richmond Times Dispatch article features the significant programs that McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center, located in the city of Richmond, offers to veterans, particularly in the field of neurological conditions.
McGuire, as a regional referral center for veterans on the East Coast, provides care to approximately 46,000 patients in one year, of which those patients make more than 469,000 outpatient visits.
New Law Expands Opportunities for Craft Breweries
On May 15, 2012, Governor Bob McDonnell signed legislation at the city of Richmond's newest brewery, Hardywood Park Brewery, allowing craft breweries to sell their beer for consumption on site.
Eric Mackay, co-founder of Hardywood Park Brewery stated that, "SB 604 will, without question, create a substantial number of hospitality and manufacturing jobs, generate significantly greater sales tax revenues, increase tourism, attract new and expanding craft breweries to Virginia, support local agriculture, and enhance Virginia's food and beverage culture."
To read the full Virginia Business article, please click here.
Shockoe Revitalization Plan Initiatives Underway
On Monday, April 9. 2012, the Richmond Times Dispatch front page article titled, "City getting ready to start Shockoe revitalization plan," describes the three major projects that are about to begin to make Shockoe Bottom a tourism and shopping destination point. Click here to read the full article.
Richmond Riverfront Plan Receives Positive Press
The Richmond Times Dispatch featured a story on April 8, 2012 on the Richmond Riverfront Plan, which has undergone an extensive public process and will be presented for formal review by the Richmond Planning Commission possibly in May 2012. To read the full article, please click here.
HealthNewsDigest.com Features Richmond Outdoor Experiences
In a March 27, 2012 article on HealthNewsDigest.com, two Richmond companies are highlighted for their unique, new outdoor sporting experiences that bring families together. The first experience offered is a new tree climbing and eco-tour offered by Riverside Outfitters. The second is called Stand Up Paddling (SUP) and is offered by Black Dog Paddle. To learn more, please click here.
New Student Housing Being Built on Chamberlayne Avenue
On March 27, 2012, the Richmond Times Dispatch reported on the work underway at The Collegiate, a 269-unit furnished student apartment complex located along Chamberlayne Avenue, just a quarter-mile from VCU.
To learn more about the six-building, 690-bed complex, please click here.
State Focuses Attention on Port of Richmond
On Wednesday, March 22, 2012, Virginia Secretary of Transportation Sean Connaughton spoke to breakfast group of the Greater Richmond Partnership about a new economic development zone the state would like to create stretching from Hampton Roads through Southside, terminating in the Richmond region. To learn more, please click here.
Virginia Named Best State to Make a Living - 2012
The Commonwealth of Virginia has recently been ranked by www.money-rates.com as the best place to make a living, based on a number of data-driven factors such as average income, cost of living, state income tax rates, and unemployment rates. To read the full article, please click here.
VCUarts Programs Ranked Nation's Top Public Graduate Program
The U.S. News & World Report has ranked VCU as the nation's top public graduate program in the Fine Arts category. The Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts tied for #4 with UCLA, behind three private universities: Yale University, Rhode Island School of Design, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
To learn more, please click here.
Manchester Revitalization Continues
A March 13, 2012 Richmond BizSense begins its story with "Manchester is on fire." The article highlights additional new development in Manchester, including 44 new apartments being built by Urban Development Associates, as well as news that the former Reynolds Souths packaging plant is under contract. To read the full article, please click here.
City of Richmond Honored for Online Government Transparency
According to the Washington Post, a national nonprofit that promotes government transparency honored 14 public sector websites in Virginia, including the city of Richmond. Over 6,000 government websites were evaluated and graded. To read the full article, please click here.
The Port of Richmond Attracts International Shipping Line
The Richmond Times Dispatch reports here on the Port of Richmond's newest client - Mediterranean Shipping Co., which is the world's second-largest shipping line. "We believe in the future of the Port of Richmond," Mediterranean Shipping USA President Caudio Bozzo said in a statement. "There are significant savings to be realized by our clients on intermodal movements, and likewise, we know how customers in Virginia are very attentive to initiatives that have a 'green' effect."
There's an app for that! City earns Foursquare badge
The social networking application Foursquare has awarded Richmond a city badge, one of only five cities to receive a badge from a recent competition. Click here to read the full Richmond Times Dispatch article.
Mayor Jones Budget Proposal Places Emphasis on Key Tourism Initiatives
The Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) being prepared by the Jones Administration for submission to City Council on March 6 includes what Mayor Jones is calling key tourism economic drivers designed to spur the area's creative economy.
Included in the Mayor's proposed budget is $14 million in proposed improvements to the historic Landmark Theater, $5 million for Shockoe Bottom Revitalization plans, and $5 million for riverfront development.
More Downtown Redevelopment Coming
According to a March 1, 2012 Richmond Times Dispatch article, construction will begin next week to renovate five historic buildings along the Haxall Canal in downtown Richmond. Jack Berry of Venture Richmond states, "The development will bring retail and restaurants to the water's edge along with hundreds of apartments." To read the full article, please click here.
Tumblr Thrives and Grows in City of Richmond
"There are so many seasoned, experienced people here. To find a climate where you have so many highly educated, highly experienced people is really something and really special. Click here to read the full Tumblr article in the Richmond Times Dispatch with the in-depth interview with Marc LaFountain.
Richmond Makes List of New Hipster Cities of America
The City of Richmond has been noted as a runner up for the title new hipster city of America. Click here to read the full article on www.austin.culturemap.com.
Free Seminar, Tuesday March 20: How to Grow Your Sales
The City of Richmond and the Virginia Department of Business Assistance is hosting a free seminar with five sessions on topics of how to grow your business. Click here to view the full details.
City Partners with RESOURCE to Host Hiring Event, Saturday, February 25
The City of Richmond Workforce Development Pipeline in partnership with the RESOURCE Workforce Board will be hosting a public hiring event this Saturday, February 25 on the ground floor of the Richmond Public Safety Building, 501 North Ninth Street. Hospitality Staffing Solutions is currently seeking highly motivated, service minded individuals to fill up to 70 positions in downtown Richmond. The company is now hiring for the positions of housekeepers, housemen, stewards, banquet servers, banquet set-up, laundry, cooks, lobby porters, maintenance floor supervisors, and more.
Jobseekers should arrive early and sign-up for one of the following times: 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., or 3 p.m. Those not interviewed during one of these times will be asked to complete a job application for consideration at a later time. Interview attire is suggested as same day job offers may occur. All positions require flexible scheduling and availability on weekends and holidays.
For more information about this event, please call (804) 646-6464.
Richmond Named a Top Ten Location for Independent Moviemakers
Movie Maker Magazine recently recognized Richmond as one of the "Top 10 cities to be an independent moviemaker" in its January issue. Notes local writer/director Joey Tran (Singularium), "Not only is there a large number of really skilled people who are more than happy to contribute to the creative side, but even non-filmakers are willing to help out with locations, like houses or other kinds of property." To read the full article, please click here.
Another Downtown Skyscraper to be Converted
In a Richmond BizSense article dated January, 23, 2012, one of Richmond's oldest skyscrapers will be converted in 154 apartments. The neoclassical First National Bank building at 823 E. Main Street and its neighboring building at 825 E. Main will be converted as part of a $30 million project in downtown Richmond. To read more about this project, please click here.
Southwest Landing in Richmond
The Richmond Times Dispatch reported on January 20th that Southwest Airlines will be coming to Richmond International Airport. Troy Bell, RIC's director of marketing and air service development stated, "Southwest is really a game-changer. If you're a community that's focused on quality of life and economic development, you definitely want to be part of Southwest's route map." To read the full article, please click here.
City Develops New Video Featuring Homes for Sale
The City of Richmond is proud to showcase the wide array of affordable, energy-efficient single-family homes available for sale in some of Richmond's most historic neighborhoods. ECD's Neighborhoods in Bloom Program has developed a new video highlighting homes for sale in its six neighborhoods. Click here to view RVA Living.
The John Marshall Hotel Restored
Click here to view a great CBS 6 news video highlighting the beautiful renovation of The John Marshall Hotel into the John Marshall Residences. Located in the heart of downtown Richmond, the John Marshall offers 238 Class "A" studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments in 55 unique floor plans. In addition, 30,000 sq. ft. of retail has been leased by Homemades by Suzanne's, bringing the elegant ballrooms back to life. An additional 24,000 sq. ft. of retail space is still available. For more information, please click here.
City Receives $600,000 Revitalization Grant for Leigh Street Armory
On Tuesday, December 28, 2011, Governor Bob McDonnell announced that the City of Richmond has been awarded a $600,000 Industrial Revitalization Fund (IRF) grant towards the redevelopment of the Leigh Street Armory, located at 122 West Leigh Street in historic Jackson Ward.
Mayor Dwight C. Jones thanked Governor McDonnell and stated, "Restoration of this property will further advance the City's revitalization of Jackson Ward, which occupies a vital place in the social and economic history of African Americans. It will also enhance Richmond's ongoing efforts to expand tourism while developing our city's cultural offerings. Additionally, it will help give meaningful use to an architectural icon."
To read the full press release, please click here. To read the Richmond Times Dispatch article, please click here.
Work It, Richmond Features Numerous Articles on City Commercial Corridor Success Stories
The Wednesday, December 28th edition of the Richmond Times Dispatch's daily e-news, Work It, Richmond, is chock full of great articles about Shockoe Botton, Church Hill, Libbie & Grove, McArthur Avenue, and successful companies such as businesses that cater to people who love their pets and creative firms. Click here to read the whole edition.
Richmond Ranked a Best City for Business by Wall Street Journal's Marketwatch.com
On December 13, 2011, The Wall Street Journal's MarketWatch issued its yearly report of the top cities in the country for business. Washington, DC, located approximately 90 miles from Richmond, won first place for the second year in a row. Richmond ranked the 12th best city, closely following cities such as Denver, New York, Austin, and Boston.
New Downtown Restaurant Recipient of City Loan
Richmond BizSense featured an interview with the owner of one of downtown Richmond's newest restaurants, Pasture, located on East Grace Street in the former Montaldo's clothing boutique. Click here to read the full article.
Mayor Jones Announces Major Expansion of Health Diagnostics Laboratory, Inc.
On Tuesday, November 23, 2011, Mayor Dwight C. Jones announed the expansion of Health Diagnostics Laboratory, Inc. (HDL) in the Virginia BioTechnology Research Park. "This $68.5 million capital investment and 653 net new jobs will bring HDL's employment to over 950 employees and makes HDL a major employer in the city of Richmond," said Mayor Jones.
Click here to read the full press release and here for the Richmond Times Dispatch article.
Shockoe Economic Revitalization Strategy Unveiled
On Tuesday, November 2, 2011, Mayor Dwight C. Jones and the Department of Economic & Community Development unveiled the Shockoe Economic Revitalization Strategy. The Strategy builds upon previous planning efforts, refining the vision of the future for this portion of Downtown Richmond. To learn more, please click here.
The Atlantic Showcases Richmond as a Start-Up Hotspot
In The Atlantic's new special report, "Start-Up Nation: The Search for the next Silicon Valley," Richmond is the first city on the tour. Noted as "blossoming into a tech hub thanks to a great research university, a big creative agency, and cheap, beautiful real estate," the feature showcases Richmond's start-up potential. Click here to read the full article.
The Atlantic features Richmond in its Start-Up Nation
Richmond Ranked 7th Best City for Working Mothers
Forbes Magazine announced its list of the 50 best cities for working mothers and Richmond was ranked as one of the top ten. Cities were ranked using metrics including women's earnings, cost of childcare, cost of living and per student public education expenditure. To learn more, please click here.
Putting RVA to Work: Using Section 3 to Create More Businesses and Jobs
A community workshop to discuss Section 3 and its economic
opportunities it provides.
Richmond Public Library, Auditorium, 101 E. Franklin St.,
Come learn about the job and business creation tools available through
Section 3 legislation. J. Keith Swiney, CEO of Motivation Inc., will
illustrate nation-wide business models that used Section 3 to spur
entrepreneurship and employment within federally funded projects. Mr.
Swiney will be joined by a team of presenters from Richmond's
Department of Economic and Community Development, the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development and Richmond
Redevelopment and Housing Authority.
What is Section 3?
Section 3 is a provision of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968,
which recognizes that HUD funds are typically one of the largest sources of
federal funding expended in communities through the form of grants, loans,
entitlement allocations and other forms of financial assistance. Section 3 is
intended to ensure that employment or contracting opportunities are
generated because a covered project or activity necessities the employment
of additional persons or awarding of contracts for work, preference must be
given to low-and very low –income persons or business concerns residing in
the community where the project is located.
Light refreshments will be available. Click here to view the brochure.
John Logan at (804) 646-6428 or James Muhammad at (804) 717-5755
City of Richmond ● RRHA ● HUD Richmond Office ● Section 3 National Consulting Group LLC
Project Rebuild: HUD Tours Richmond's Church Hill Neighborhood
Last week, Secretary Donovan of the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development, visited Richmond to see firsthand how previous neighborhood stabilization efforts have helped revitalize neighborhoods, create jobs, stabilize home prices, and stimulate local economies. Click here to view the full blog entry by HUD on their trip to Richmond.
City hosts Entrepreneur Express Seminar
On Wednesday, October 12th, the City of Richmond's Department of Economic & Community Development hosted the Entrepreneur Express seminar at the Police Training Academy sponsored by the Virginia Department of Business Assistance. To learn more, please click here. The City plans to offer this seminar again in the spring of 2012.
Richmond's Tourism Coordinator Talks Slogans, Signs and the Sesquicentennial
Click here to read Style Weekly's feature interview with Anedra Bourne, the City of Richmond's new Tourism Coordinator within the Department of Economic & Community Development.
HUD Secretary Tours Richmond's Neighborhood Stabilization Program Successes
Shaun Donovan, secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, visited Richmond on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 to promote Project Rebuild. Project Rebuild is a continuation of a neighborhood stabilization program that would expand to include commercial projects and would allow private developers to participate in the program.
Mayor Dwight C. Jones, along with Councilwoman Cynthia Newbille, toured the 800 block of North 27th Street in Church Hill, which has three houses on the block that were renovated using federal funds managed by ECD's Neighborhood Revitalization. To learn more, please click here.
City Opens First Workforce Development Center
On Monday, October 3, 2011, the City opened the first joint Workforce Development Center in the city that offers services and resources to City residents to better prepare and search for jobs. The One Stop Shop Resource and Missions Center is open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. To learn more, please click here.
City Receives Excellence in Economic Development Award from International Economic Development Council (IEDC)
The City's Department of Economic & Community Development received an Excellence in Economic Development Award for their marketing kit in the category of General Purpose Promotion for communities with populations of 200,000 to 500,000 from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). To learn more, please click here.
USA Awarded 2015 UCI Road World Championship
The City of Richmond, Virginia has been selected to host the 2015 Road World Championship! Click here to read the full press release.
Forbes Lists Richmond as 15th Happiest City for Young Professionals
Richmond.com reports that Forbes.com has created the 2011 list of happiest cities for young professionals in America and Richmond is #15. The eight factors that affect workplace happiness were growth opportunities, compensation, benefits, work-life balance, career advancement, senior management, job security, and whether they would recommend their employer to others. Click here to read the full article.
Richmond schools make U.S. News & World Report's 2012 Rankings of Best Colleges
U.S. News & World Report's 2012 rankings of Best Colleges is out and Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Richmond and Virginia Union University all received accolades for various programs. Click here for the full listing reported by Richmond.com.
Richmond Gets Into a Groove
The September edition of the Virginia Business Magazine features an extensive article on the city of Richmond's significant arts and cultural scene and initiatives. Click here to read the full article.
USA Today Lists City of Richmond as Best Place for Paddling Adventure
David Brown, the executive director of the American Outdoors Association, named the City of Richmond as one of the top great places in the U.S. for a paddling adventure to USA Today. Brown said, "It's certainly an authentic whitewater experience. It's a pretty popular urban run." Click here to read the full article.
Virginia Named America's "Top State for Business" by CNBC
CNBC announced that Virginia has been named America's "Top State for Business" in 2011. Virginia received the highest point total in the history of CNBC's rankings, finishing in the top-half of every category ranked. To learn more, please click here.
Virginia Named Top Pro-Business State in National Study
Pollina Corporate Real Estate annual study picks Virginia as a "model" for pro-business states with the Commonwealth, winning by the largest margin in the history of the study. The study, considered the most comprehensive, unbiased and unvarnished by the economic development industry, is the "Gold Standard" for evaluating and ranking states based on 32 factors. To learn more, please click here.
To review the full study, please click here.
Solar Firm Moves from Incubator to Richmond
Eastlight Renewable Ventures, a solar-energy development firm, has graduated from the Dominion Resources GreenTech Incubator in Ashland and moved into a new headquarters in downtown Richmond. To learn more, please click here for the full Richmond Times Dispatch article.
Bloomberg Businessweek Names Richmond a Most Fun and Affordable City
A recent Bloomberg Businessweek online article highlights Richmond as a top city for fun and affordability. A new report from Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate, with real estate data company Onboard Informatics, evaluated over 6,000 zip codes where the mediam home price is within 20 percent of the state's median home price and then selected the 25 areas with the greatest number of bars and restaurants. Click here for more information.
City's Vision for Church Hill
As business activity increases in Richmond's Church Hill neighborhood, city officials are itching to kick the growth of this area into high gear.
Peter Chapman, Richmond's Chief Deputy Officer of Economic and Community Development who is in charge of the city's effort says that the increasing development goes beyond attracting and retaining businesses in the area. According to Work It, Richmond, the city is now focusing on what it calls "gateway corridors", which are 25th St and Nine Mile Road. These gateways "provide the greatest opportunities for new businesses," says Chapman. However this development is a bit different; in order to grow the larger businesses, the city must also focus on the smaller businesses as well as poverish areas.
Chapman and his partners are hoping to improve residential sites within the area, drawing more people, which in turn will attract more commercial development.
To read more on Peter Chapman's plan for Church Hill, please click here.
Shockoe Tomato Festival Shocker
Give a shocking surprise to your tastebuds Saturday, July 23 at the Shockoe Tomato Festival at the 17th Street Farmers' Market!
Tomatoes are often mistaken for a vegetable, but they're actually a "flexible fruit that do a fine job of fleshing things out at meal time." This ocassionally overlooked fruit has the ability to enhance the delectability of a variety of dishes from pastas and pizzas, to the traditional bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich.
According to Richmond.com, "The tomato is one of Virginia's central cash crops, and that's why the plant is so revered in Richmond."
So if you're a fan of this
Richmond Named Top Place to Live
Every year, RelocateAmerica.com comes out with a list of top 100 places to live in America, and Richmond is on the list. RelocateAmerican compiles data to find communities that are "well positioned for economic recovery, already experiencing strong economic recovery or have proven economic stability." Factors such as employement, education and overall quality of life also strongly considered in the decision.
According to relocateamerica.com, the cultural and artistic features give Richmond a cosmopolitan flair. "Easy, fun, accessible, and affordable, the Richmond area has something to offer for people of all ages and walks of life." Low traffic congestion and an average 24 minute commute are just some of the reasons that make Richmond a desirable place to live; "reasonable living costs and a wide array of affordable housing contribute to the region's easy lifestyle."
In addition, Richmond is noted for its diverse economy which includes 10 Fortune 1000 headquarters: pharmaceutical, chemical, biotech, and other 21st century manufacturers; Fifth District Federal Reserve, Fourt Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, and state capital, financial and information technology services; and higher education.
Downtown skyline homes a new name
After West-Coast bank Wells Fargo took over Wachovia at the height of the financial crisis, it has slowly and discreetly been changing the signs previously graced with Wachovia, over to what is now Wells Fargo. Wells Fargo has left the Wachovia banners up, reluctant to begin changing too much too fast.
According to Richmond Biz Sense, "Wells Fargo began to unveil one of the most visible symbols of its entrance into the Richmond market Tuesday; its name was raised in place of the Wachovia sign at the peak of its downtown local headquarters at James Center."
This is a big event for Wells Fargo, suggesting their acquisition of Wachovia, which in turn has given it a strong foothold in the Richmond Banking Market, "having by far the most branches of any bank in town, controlling about $6.3 billion of all deposits in the market."
Wells Fargo has planned for their official unveiling to happen on August 6, ultimately taking place of the well known Wachovia bank, which is "now on the verge of extinction."
To learn more about Wells Fargo and their transition to the City of Richmond, please visit http://www.richmondbizsense.com/2011/07/13/a-new-name-in-the-downtown-skyline/
UNOS Employees to be Transplanted
UNOS, the United Nation for Organ Sharing, a major Richmond nonprofit with a federal contract to match organ donors with transplant recipients, will relocate some of its employees to recently purchased Jackson Center, located in the heart of historic Jackson Ward, from their current location in Virginia Biotechnology Research Park.
According to Richmond BizSense, UNOS has outgrown its location in the Virginia Biotechnology Research Park and needs a place to expand - "we are just bursting at the seams here at our headquarters," says Lisa Schaffner, spokesperson for UNOS.
UNOS purchased the Jackson Center, the deal coming to an official close on June 30. 40- 50 of the 340 employees will begin the transition to the second location this fall.
To learn more about UNOS and their transition to a second location, please click here.
Richmond: Capital of Creativity
"There's just a general inventiveness about the people of Richmond that is somewhat contagious. Not to mention, riding my bike to work every morning past the 'Give me liberty or give me death' site fills me with stubborn entrepreneurial enthusiasm." Tom Oristian, LucyPhone
Click here to read Richmond.com's article highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit in Richmond. The article explains why Richmond is quickly becoming "the place" to bring businesses, both tiny startups and large corporations and as a location that "has the uncanny ability to attract business owners."
Big name companies have been in the city for years, and according to Richmond.com, "with the number of Richmond startups launching, it's clear the entrepreneurial vibe is spreading like wildfire." The article highlights exciting companies such as LucyPhone, Tumblr and Green Duck.
Picasso Exhibition Produces Nearly $29 Million Impact on Virginia
The recent art exhibition of world renowned artist Pablo Piacasso, held in the Virginia Fine Arts Museum, not only drew over 230,000 visitors to Richmond, but left the city with a better return in economic activity than what was expected. According to The Richmond Times Dispatch, the exhibition, lasting from February to May, resulted in a $26.6 million economic impact to the Richmond region - $1.6 million more than the predicted amount. "You're talking about a $5 million exhibition for which we had zero funding on the day we said yes," says museum director Alex Nyerges.
The exhibition delivered "a highly successful return on what was a 'risky' venture for the museum, agreeing in early 2010 to become one of the only 3 museums nationwide to host the exhibit," explains Nyerges.
For more information on the exhibition and impact on the Richmond area, please click here.
City Selects Coordinator of Comprehensive Tourism Efforts
In order to boost the efforts and increase the impact of tourism in Richmond, Anedra Bourne has been hired as the new Tourism Coordinator for the City's Department of Economic and Community Development.
Anedra Bourne will be working with a diverse group of people to lead the process of implementing recommendations that will emerge from the Mayor's Tourism Commision.
Welcome to the team Anedra!
To read more about Bourne and the future plans for Richmond's Tourism, please click here.
Greater Richmond Partnership Forges Agreement with Bavarian Economic Development
The Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc., the regional economic development organization, has signed a partnership agreement with the Bavarian U.S. Offices for Economic Development, LLC. Life Sciences, medical devices and products, and information technology will be the focus of the partnership.
For additional information, please click here.
Virginia has been named America's "Top State for Business" by CNBC. The Commonwealth took the top spot in the extremely competitive yearly study, receiving the highest point total in the history of the rankings. Virginia finished in the top-half of every category ranked. The number one ranking comes on the heels of Virginia's receiving the highest ranking of any state east of the Mississippi in the American Legislative Exchange Council's economic competitiveness ranking of the states, which was released last week.
The Capital of Creativity: Launch of i.e.*
On Thursday, June 24, the launch of i.e.* took place during an all-day summit held at LaDifference in downtown Richmond. The purpose of i.e.* is to tell the Richmond region's creative story and highlight the innovation and world-class work being done in Richmond every day. To read the full article in the Richmond Times Dispatch, please click here.
A Celebration of Progress: One Year Review of East End Vision Initiative
On Tuesday, June 21st, the Richmond community came out in force to celebrate the progress of the East End Initiative and to discuss next steps at the historic Robinson Theater. To read the full article in the Richmond Times Dispatch, please click here. To learn more about the East End Initiative, please click here.
New City Economic Indicators Report Now Available
The City of Richmond has developed a new Economic Indicators Report that highlights economic activity in the city as well as selected indicators for the region, state and nation. The report provides statistics on local employment, retail sales, housing market, building permit activity and tourism activity. Please click here to view the May 2011 report.
Made in Richmond - Special Report
The Richmond Times Dispatch featured several articles recently on the Richmond region's diverse food production and manufacturing base, highlighting companies such as AMF Bakery Systems and C.F. Sauer Co. Click here to read the articles.
Shockoe Bottom Development Boom Continues
Residential development in Shockoe Bottom continues as developers turn historic warehouses into apartments and lofts. Click here to view the CBS 6 News video highlighting the developments underway.
Governor McDonnell Signs New Legislation to Promote Clean and Renewable Energy in Virginia
Governor Bob McDonnell signed eight pieces of new legislation on June 15th at the VCU School of Business to promote the clean and renewable energy industry in Virginia and to spur development of new pilot projects and technologies that will promote reliable and affordable energy for Virginia families, businesses and industry.
The legislation will further advance development of renewable energy sources through solar generation demonstration programs, expansion of distributed generation and by establishing additional incentives for individuals and companies to utilize clean and renewable energy.
Richmond Makes Cover of American Airlines Magazine
The city of Richmond is the cover page featured article in American Airlines' June 15 issue of American Way magazine. Entitled Pride + Perserverance, this article highlights the city of Richmond's history of innovation, welcoming spirit and entrepreneurial energy. Click here to read the full article.
Taste of Paris Coming to Downtown Richmond
The La Parisienne Bistro and Cafe will be opening on the ground floor of the Williams Mullen building at the corner of 10th and Cana streets in July. The restaurant will feature authentic French cuisine and eventually offer live music. For more information, read the full Richmond Richmond BizSense article here.
IT publication list Richmond as a top city for IT Professionals to live
Information technologies trade publication, Microsoft Certified Professionals Magazine, has ranked Richmond #6 on their top "Top 10 Cities for IT Professionals to Live In" list.
The article noted Richmond for its large number of government IT jobs available and the selection of Fortune 500 firms calling Richmond home.
To view the full list, please click here.
New Downtown Development Featured at Venture Richmond Real Estate Forum
On Friday, June 3, 2011, Venture Richmond hosted the "Seeing is Believing" forum, highlighting over 40 projects underway or recently completed in downtown Richmond. For more information, please click here to read the Richmond Times Dispatch article.
Revitalization of East Broad Street
A Richmond Times Dispatch article by Carol Hazard highlights new efforts by the City of Richmond and developers to revitalize a key set of blocks along East Broad Street in downtown Richmond.
Douglas Jemal, a prominent Washington developer, has teamed up with Eagle Commercial Realty to renovate and then sell or lease at least 13 buildings between First and Third Street.
The City of Richmond has been working with Jemal to encourage improvement along East Broad Street and beginning July 1, 2011, will have funding available for facade improvements and small repairs.
Additional revitalization efforts along East Broad Street include the public-private partnership program called ArtBusiness Richmond and the new City-wide loan program. Click here to learn more.
City of Richmond Biennial Fiscal Budget Passed
For Immediate Release Contact: Tammy Hawley
Monday, May 23, 2011 (804) 646-3110
Tammy.Hawley@Richmondgov.com
Mayor Comments on FY 2012-2013 Biennial Fiscal Budget Passage
Richmond, VA – Richmond City Council passed the city's 2012-2013 Biennial Fiscal Plan and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) during its formal meeting tonight. Mayor Dwight C. Jones has provided the following comments on the budget's passage:
"I thank Richmond City Council for working with my team in reviewing and passing the city's 2012-2013 biennial budget. Richmond City Council has kept changes to my proposed budget to about 1/10 of one percent for the third year in a row; representative of how we are working together to benefit City residents. This budget is sustainable and is structurally balanced. The enormous costs of the country's financial crisis and lagging economy have continued to force hard choices, but for the third consecutive year, we have not raised taxes, there have been no furloughs or layoffs, and we have not interrupted core services.
"This budget continues our commitment to education as $124 million is included for schools, plus an agreement that the School System will keep the $6 million project fund balance from this fiscal year – to use next fiscal year. Our commitment to schools also is continued in the CIP which includes $6 million for continuing our ADA compliance efforts and includes $52.5 million in School construction projects. This constitutes the greatest commitment of all in the two-year CIP.
"These have been lean times, and it is important that we provide for our hard-working employees. Using the rates calculated by the Richmond Retirement System, we fully fund the required annual contribution to the pension fund, and Council even increased that by $500,000. We have provided a consistent health insurance plan, and in our second year of combining City and School employees in a single plan, we will be fully self-insured as of July 1; which is one year faster than we projected when we combined the two systems in 2010. This budget absorbs the employees' and retirees' shares of the increased cost of health insurance. And, we have provided for a $1,000 bonus for each eligible full-time City employee who has been with us for at least one year and included a 1% bonus per eligible employee for RPS employees.
"The budget includes funding for a satellite one-stop job referral and workforce development site at the former Richmond Nursing Home facility on Cool Lane in the city's East End. Year two of the budget allows for the opening of a child care facility to help parents seeking training and jobs. We have $400,000 for enterprise zones, and $200,000 for the CARE program, to make façade and other improvements in several areas – and this is in the face of budget cuts from HUD.
"We are moving forward with a Mental Health docket and the electronic monitoring of non-violent offenders as we seek to reduce the inmate population at the city jail by moving individuals who don't need to be there. We are also moving forward with construction of our new Justice Center.
"This budget allows us to assist the Virginia Treatment Center for Children with a new Children's Mental Health Resource Center, to ensure families receive help in getting the right assessments for their needy children. Right now, too many parents struggle to get help for their children in an incredibly complex network of providers.
"Infrastructure continues to be a major priority for my administration as this budget provides funding to pave 130 lane miles of streets this year, with a cumulative total of 30 percent of City streets paved by 2014. For sidewalks, the CIP includes $1.25 million for sidewalk projects to repair hazardous conditions, and add sidewalks as requested. And, for our cyclists, we have provided $250,000 in each of the next two years for 80 miles of sharrows for sharing roads with cars and bicycles.
"And all of this has been part of a practical budget, and I think it is important to note that we are planning for the future by setting extra reserves this year to help with spike in debt service costs due to school debt coming online in FY 13. We will also see significant savings through the replacement of vehicles with cash in an effort to reduce borrowing. And, we are taking steps to reduce our debt service in the future by paying the costs of the debt issuance with cash and by re-financing higher interest rate debt."
Greater Richmond Fortune 1000 Headquarters Grows to Eleven
The number of Fortune 1000 companies headquartered in Greater Richmond, Virginia has grown by one for a total of 11. This ranks Greater Richmond 13th best of all metros in the number of Fortune 1000 companies per 100,000 residents.
Across all U.S. metro areas, Greater Richmond ranked 19th in the number of total Fortune 1000 companies, tying with Kansas City, MO and Phoenix, AZ.
NewMarket Corporation was added this year by being ranked 943 on Fortune's list. NewMarket began in Richmond in 1887 and is the parent company of Afton Chemical Corporation and Ethyl Corporation.
Below is the list of Fortune 1000 companies in Greater Richmond*:
Altria Group Tobacco products 154
Dominion Resources Electric and gas utility 162
Genworth Financial Insurance 243
Owens and Minor Health care wholesaler 295
CarMax Automotive retailer 311
MeadWestvaco Packaging 373
Brink's Security services 645
Massey Energy Mining 662
Universal Tobacco wholesaler 749
Markel Insurance 818
NewMarket Chemicals 943
Source: www.fortune.com, May 2011.
Gregory H. Wingfield, president and CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc., said, "For a region our size, it is impressive to have 11 Fortune 1000 companies who choose to be headquartered in Greater Richmond, of which six are ranked as Fortune 500. These are well-known companies that are obviously very successful. Having another headquartered company added to the Fortune list this year validates that businesses can thrive in Greater Richmond."
The Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc. was launched in 1994 as a pioneering regional public-private initiative to serve as the regional economic development group for the City of Richmond and the counties of Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico. The mission is to help grow the Greater Richmond economy through the attraction of high quality jobs and new capital investment, the retention of existing businesses, and the continued improvement of the region's business climate. Since inception, the Partnership has played a key role in the attraction of more than $7.3 billion in investment by 395 new and expanding companies. This is a return on investment of $164 for every $1 in funding provided by public and private partners since 1994. For more information, please visit www.grpva.com. RSS feed: http://www.grpva.com/rss/rss-prod/
Greg Wingfield
Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc.
(804) 643-3227ghw@grpva.com
www.grpva.com
VCU Set to Hire Architect for New Arts Institute
Virginia Commonwealth University's plan to build a $19.3 million gallery to showcase the works of its top-ranked arts school is about to enter the design phase.
The 32,000-square-foot arts institute will be built at the southwest corner of Broad and Belvidere streets on property owned by the VCU Real Estate Foundation that is currently used for surface parking.
To learn more, please click here for the entire Richmond Times Dispatch article.
Richmond Seeks Comment on Transportation Plan
By Times-Dispatch Staff
Updated: May 17, 2011 - 12:00 AM
The city of Richmond is holding an open-house workshop today to encourage residents to help shape the city's vision, goals and policies on transportation.
The meeting will be from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Carillon, 1300 S. Blanton Ave., in Byrd Park. It's part of work to update the Richmond Strategic Multimodal Transportation Plan, known as Richmond Connects, by December.
For information, contact Phil Kempf at (804) 287-3164 or pkempf@ mbakercorp.com.
Picasso Adds His Flourish to the Bottom Line
According to a May 17, 2011 Richmond BizSense article, more than a quarter-million people came through the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to see a rare collection of Pablo Picasso works. The month-long exhibit, which ended Sunday, was a major boost to the local hospitality industry, filling hotel rooms and bringing out-of-town spenders to local restaurants and shops.
The Jefferson Hotel, for example, said it booked 1,600 guests who were heading to the museum.
Alex Nyerges, the museum's director, said the Picasso exhibit sold more than 229,000 tickets, which was more than the 200,000 the museum expected.
Nyerges said the museum sold $2.6 million in tickets for the Picasso exhibit and sold close to a half million in memberships. Nyerges also said that the Picasso exit store, a gift shop, did $1.4 million in sales over a three-month period.
To read the full Richmond BizSense article, please click here.
All of a sudden Boomtown, USA
According to Richmond BizSense, commercial real estate firms have reported $160.6 million in sales from 34 deals for the first four months of 2011, up more than 200 percent from the $47.9 million in sales for the same period in 2010.
"The office market for sales is just beginning to pick up a little steam, and I suspect that we will see some fairly steady activity from here on out," said Walton Makepeace, a broker with CB Richard Ellis.
Makepeace was one of the brokers involved with the second-largest deal to move forward this year: Dominion Realty Partners' $63.7 million sale of Riverside on the James to McLean-based American Real Estate Partners.
"I think that deal will start some momentum in downtown Richmond for office building sales," Makepeace said.
Altria Workers Expand Cleanup Effort to Richmond's Arts District
Altria workers are taking part in another event Friday to help clean up parts of the city.
The employees, who are picking up trash and planting flowers on Broad St. from 6th Street to Belvidere, are working to ensure the corridor is welcoming to visitors and residents.
Officials say the area is a crucial gateway to Richmond's Arts District, which includes CenterStage, The National, Shockoe Bottom, art galleries and restaurants.
Additionally, Altria employees will paint four new murals designed by local artists. They will also paint Richmond-inspired visuals on traffic utility boxes.
The event is part of Keep America Beautiful's Great American Cleanup program, which has been supported by Philip Morris for over 60 years.
The Great American Cleanup is the nation's largest community improvement program and takes place annually from March 1 through May 31. The event has more than three million volunteers across the country.
Click here to view the CBS 6 News video.
University of Richmond business school has a top program in the U.S.
According to a Richmond Times Dispatch article, the University of Richmond's Robins School of Business has the top international business program in the country, according to the financial magazine Bloomberg Businessweek.
The magazine said Robins got the top spot in the international program because "of a concentration that includes seven required courses; an international cultural experience involving at least a semester of study outside the U.S., along with proficiency in a second language; and a full-time international internship."
Steven Spielberg to film Lincoln in Richmond and Petersburg
Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell announced on May 4 that Academy Award-winning filmmaker Steven Spielberg will shoot his highly anticipated major feature film Lincoln in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The film is based on the book "Team of Rivals" by Doris Kearns Goodwin and will be shot in the Richmond and Petersburg areas. Filming will begin in the Fall and the movie is slated for release in 2012.
The film will star Academy Award-winning actors Daniel Day-Lewis (My Left Foot, There Will be Blood) as Abraham Lincoln and Sally Field (Norma Rae, Places in the Heart) as Mary Todd Lincoln. The screenplay was written by Tony Kushner who last worked with Spielberg on the feature film Munich. The film will be produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Steven Spielberg for DreamWorks Studios.
"We are honored that Steven Spielberg, an award winning and visionary film maker, has chosen the Commonwealth for this important film. It is especially notable coming during the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and emancipation," said Governor Bob McDonnell. "Steven is an exceptional storyteller who brings historic themes to life on screen, resulting in such important and influential films as Saving Private Ryan, Schindler's List, Munich and the mini-series Band of Brothers. I have no doubt that Lincoln will quickly join the ranks of those famous works."
Steven Spielberg noted, "Virginia's rich historic legacy, coupled with the remarkable period architecture found in Richmond and Petersburg, make Central Virginia the ideal location for this production."
Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Jim Cheng remarked, "It would not have been possible for Virginia to attract such a prestigious film to the Commonwealth without the work of the Virginia Film Office, support of the General Assembly, and the cities of Richmond and Petersburg."
Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones commented, "Richmond played a central role in the Civil War, and we are honored that our city will be featured in a film about this important time in American history. We welcome this extraordinary opportunity to be part of this film."
The Virginia Film Office worked with the cities of Richmond and Petersburg to secure this project. The incentive package includes $1 million from the Governor's Motion Picture Opportunity Fund, $2.5 million from the Virginia Motion Picture Tax Credit program and $1.1 million in in-kind contributions. The amount of funding awarded to a project is based on Virginia workers hired and the purchase of Virginia based goods and services.
The direct and indirect impact of Virginia's motion picture and video production industry in 2009 was $346 million, representing 2,700 jobs for the state.
German Solar Company Locates U.S. Operations in Richmond
The Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc. and the City of Richmond are pleased to announce abalus solar USA's decision to locate in Richmond to distribute solar panels and components. abakus solar has already hired four employees and has aggressive plans to grow the distribution range along the East Coast over the next few years.
abakus solar USA is a subsidiary of abakus solar AG, located in Germany.Founded in 1995, abakus solar AG engineers and operates photovoltaic turnkey plants renowned internationally with locations in Germany, Italy, Greece, Taiwan and now the U.S. The company has special competence in high-quality BIPV (building integrated photovoltaic), tailor made according to the requirements of customers and architects.
James Huff, CEO of abakus solar USA, said "With the emphasis on the need for alternative energy, now is the perfect time for abakus solar to expand in the U.S." The company imports modules to Richmond and plans to create a network of contractors for solar panel installation. Customers will be able to stop by the storefront facility, simplifying both the purchase of materials and installation process. Huff sees ample opportunities to work with existing solar businesses in the region and geographically grow distribution in increments.
On selecting Greater Richmond for its location, Huff explained: "Access to the Port and being at the crossroads of I-95 and I-64 were critical for our decision to locate in Richmond. If accessibility is what you need, why locate anywhere else?" He added, "The Greater Richmond Partnership and the City of Richmond were a tremendous help to abakus solar in making our business decision on where to locate and then supporting us as we established our facility."
Mayor Dwight C. Jones said, "abakus solar AG has chosen the right city for its first USA location! The decision by this German company reaffirms Richmond's most recent accolade as the Best Small American City of the Future by Foreign Direct Investment (fDi) Magazine. Having recently launched our own sustainability planning process, we are extremely pleased to welcome and support businesses at the cutting edge of alternative energy solutions. We welcome abakus solar USA to our city."
Gregory H Wingfield, president and CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc., said "We are pleased to welcome another German company to the Greater Richmond community and one that is focused on the growing alternative energy market. It was a pleasure working closely with abakus solar and it's rewarding to know that our services were valued. We are very excited about their growth plans."
abakus solar USA was provided site-selection and relocation assistance by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Inc., the Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc. and the City of Richmond.
Greg Wingfield, President/CEO, Greater Richmond Partnership, Inc.
ghw@grpva.com
James Huff, CEO, abakus solar USA
huff@abakus-solar.com
www.abakus-solar.com
ECD Welcomes New Director, Lee Downey
The City of Richmond Department of Economic & Community Development welcomes Lee Downey as the new director. Click here to read the full release regarding the Mayor's announcement of Mr. Downey's appointment and here for additional information in the April ECD E-News. Welcome Lee!
City of Richmond Kicks Off Strategic Multimodal Transportation Planning
The City of Richmond is kicking off the development of the Richmond Strategic Multimodal Transportation Plan, known as Richmond Connects, with two events in early May. The first event is on Tuesday, May 3, 2011 at the Byrd Theatre from 5:30 - 8:30 PM. The second event is at Carillon in Byrd Park on Tuesday, May 17, from 5-8 PM. For more information, please click here or contact Phil Kempf at (804) 287-3164 or pkempf@mbakercorp.com.
Riverside on the James Purchased by Herndon-based American Real Estate Partners
On April 14, 2011 American Real Estate Partners (www.americanrepartners.com), a Herndon, VA-based, fully-integrated private real estate investment company announced its most recent acquisition, the firm's first purchase into the Richmond, Virginia market. In addition to the $63.7 million acquisition of Riverside on the James, the company also announced the firm's first acquisition in the New York metro area.
"These new acquisitions are the very best assets in their respective submarkets and will exceed our return objectives," said Douglas Fleit, Chief Executive Officer. "We are seeking many more of these types of opportunities and expect to be extremely active in acquiring quality office projects the next few years."
American Real Estate Partners concentrates on commercial real estate assets and real estate financial instruments in markets along the Eastern Seaboard, including Washington, DC; Virginia; suburban Maryland; Raleigh-Durham; Philadelphia; New Jersey; and New York. The firm's current holdings total approximately 4.2 million square-feet of Class A office and flex assets.
Mayor Jones Announces New Director of Economic & Community Development
On Thursday, May 14, 2011, Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced the appointment of three key positions in his administration, including Director of Economic & Community Development. Lee Downey, currently Vice President for Business Development with McKinney & Company, will begin on May 2. Mayor Jones stated, "You need people who have the direct experience, the direct training and a proven track record to take the city forward, and it's been difficult to find such a person. We've interviewed many people, but I think our waiting was well worth waiting." Click here to read more.
VCU Creates First Program In Product Innovation
Virginia Commonwealth University has received approval from the State Council of Higher Education to develop a master's degree program in product innovation, making VCU the first university in the U.S. to offer such a program. The VCU's da Vinci Center, which is a collaboration between VCU's schools of the Arts, Business and Engineering, will launch the program beginning with the 2011-2012 academic year. To read the fill Richmond Times-Dispatch article, please click here.
Mayor Announces ArtBusiness Richmond Development
On Wednesday, March 13, Mayor Dwight C. Jones and Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) Peter H. Chapman, announced a new development project in ArtBusiness Richmond that includes an approved loan from the new City-wide loan program. The loan is for adaptive rehabilitation along the Broad Street Corridor and is the first investment in the City Administration's ArtBusiness initiative. To view a video from NBC 12 News, please click here.
Foreign Direct Investment (fDi) Magazine Names City of Richmond Best Small City of the Future
The Financial Times Froup fDi (Foreign Direct Investment) Magazine has awarded the City of Richmond the top "Small American City of the Future" 2011/2012. Richmond was also ranked as the third Top Small Cities for FDI Strategy and fifth overall for Small Cities Business Friendliness. To read the City of Richmond press release, please click here.
Richmond Slave Trail Marker Unveiling this Sunday, April 10, 2011
On Sunday, April 10, 2011, an emancipation celebration and unveiling of 17 new slave trail markers will commence at 3:00 PM at Lumpkin's Jail Site, 1500 E. Franklin Street. The markers are located throughout the Shockoe Bottom area of Richmond and mark sites that help tell the historic journey, human impact, and the role Richmond played in the history of slavery. Click here to view an interview by CBS 6 News with Delegate Delores McQuinn.
New Neighborhood Stabilzation Program (NSP) Homes for Sale
The City of Richmond has been allocated $2.4 million in Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) funds from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (ECD) to address foreclosed and abandoned properties in three neighborhoods: Highland Park, Barton Heights, and Church Hill. Click here to view the list of properties that have been acquired and are being renovated under Other Publications.
VCU's Final Four Debut Brings Record National Exposure
The Washington Post highlights the significant amount of attention given to Virginia Commonwealth University as it rose through the NCAA Tournament. According to this article, it means 11 million Web hits - in one day, significant local and national media coverage, more friends, followers and engaged alumni, and more interest in admissions. Richmond BizSense's Monday Q&A interview with George Mason University President Alan Merten highlights George Mason University's similiar experience in 2006 and the aftermath. GMU has quantified the exposure it received from its run as worth more than $600 million. And five years later, Merten says George Mason is still reaping the benefits. To read the full interview, please click here.
Richmond's 11th Ukrop's Monument 10K is Virginia's Largest Participatory Sporting Event
Over 41,000 runners and walkers participated in this year's Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K in downtown Richmond. More than 100,000 spectators cheered on the participants. All proceeds benefit the VCU Massey Cancer Center. Click here for a great CBS 6 News video.
Richmond Named 6th Best City to Find a Job
Ajilon Professional Staffing, a speciality recruiting and workforce solutions firm, issued its top 10 cities for finding employment in the U.S., listing the City of Richmond as the 6th best. Using Department of labor data and insights from its regional market branches, Ajilon selected cities with an unemployment rate of 8 percent or lower, and considered other factors such as diversity of industries, cost of living, the range in size of companies offering employment, and the level of higher education among its residents. To learn more, please click here.
Hoopstown USA: Richmond is Focus of National Attention During NCAA Tournament
The City of Richmond is one of only four cities in the country to have two schools in the NCAA Mens Basketball tournament that head to the Sweet 16. To honor the VCU and University of Richmond teams, the City, in partnership with Venture Richmond, VCU and UR, held a pep rally along the Canal Walk at the Turning Basin. Mayor Jones, Dr. Rao, President of VCU and Dr. Ayers, President of the University of Richmond joined in the festivities as hundreds of people came out to cheer their team and their city. Click here to view a Richmond Times Dispatch video of the people rally and here for photos from Richmond.com. The momentum continued as VCU won in overtime against Floriday State on Friday, March 25th, continuing on to the Elite Eight. On Sunday the 27th, VCU beat Kansas, ranked second in the country, heading on to the Final Four - the first time in the university's history. Click here for more coverage from Sport Illustrated.cnn.com.
Richmond Celebrates U of R and VCU Making Sweet 16 in NCAA Tournament
On Wednesday, March 23rd, 5:00 PM, the City of Richmond is hosting a Sweet 16 Pep Rally at the Turning Basin along the Canal Walk in Shockoe Slip to cheer the University of Richmond Spiders and the Virgininia Commonwealth University Rams. Richmond has become the first city since Los Angeles (in 2007) to send two teams to round 16 of the tournament - the fourth time ever in history.
To view a featured video by CBS 6 News, please click here.
University of Richmond Ranked 12th Best Business School for Undergrads
The University of Richmond's Robins School of Business ranked 12th in the country for Best Undergraduate Business Schools 2011 by Bloomberg Businessweek. Last year the school was ranked No. 15. To read more, please click here.
In addition to this accolade, the newly expanded Robins School of Business opened recently with a 37,000-square-foot expansion to Queally Hall. The expansion includes eight new classrooms, a 225-seat auditorium and a large trading room, equipped with 12 Bloomberg terminals where students can get up-to-the-minute stock market and economic data. For more information, click here.
Dominion Announces "Troops to Energy Jobs" Initiative
At Dominion's downtown Richmond HQ's on March 14th, Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling announced the Dominion (NYSE: D) will establish a pilot program to begin linking thousands of future job openings in the energy industry with troops leaving military service. To learn more about the "Troops to Energy Jobs" initiative, please click here.
A member of our Economic and Community Development team found these pictures in a news article and thought you might find them interesting!
http://shockoenews.com/2011/03/16/17th-street-market-2/
City Planners Focus on Riverfront Planning
The City of Richmond Department of Planning and Development Review has begun a series of community forums to receive public input on planning for future riverfront development. Click here to view a video highlight from NBC Channel 12 News on this weekend's public forum.
Luck Stone Supports 15th Annual XTERRA East Championship
On Friday, March 11, 2011 Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced that Luck Stone Corporation has signed on as the presenting sponsor of this year's XTERRA East Championship June 11th and 12th in downtown Richmond.
Bob Grauer, Senior Vice President of Luck Stone stated, "Today we mark another milestone in our efforts to support our city and to positively impact the lives of the people within the community where our company began. It is our hope that this will be the first step in connecting with a new generation of athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, while reaffirming our commitment to the environment and the Greater Richmond community. We know that keeping XTERRA in Richmond is important to the Mayor, City Council and downtown businesses. We're proud to be the presenting sponsor of XTERRA which plays such a vital role in the local economy."
To read more, please click here. To read the Richmond Times Dispatch article, please click here.
Richmond Workforce Pipeline Success Story
During the week of March 7th, 2011, the Workforce Development Division of ECD worked with our Richmond Workforce Pipeline Partners to host an event for a local employer, Standard Parking, to connect local qualified job applicants to job opportunities available with the company. Over 100 job seekers recruited by RRHA, Social Services, Justice Services, RESOURCE, Goodwill, and Boaz & Ruth interviewed for positions as cashiers and parking valets. Standard Parking was pleased with the turnout of high quality candidates and plans to continue to utilize the Richmond Workforce Pipeline to help fill their future hiring needs. If you'd like support for your hiring needs or would like to be a participant in the Richmond Workforce Pipeline, call 646-6464.
Virginia Business Highlights Best In Business
In the March issue of Virginia Business, twenty-five of Virginia's top business leaders are highlighted. Of this prestigious group, a number are leaders of companies based in the City of Richmond including John Adams, Jr. and Mike Hughes of The Martin Agency, William H. Goodwin, Jr. of CAA Industries, Thomas F. Farrell II of Dominion Resources, Inc., and Floyd D. and Bruce C. Gottswald of NewMarket Corp. To read the full article, please click here.
Mayor Jones Places Emphasis on Tourism
On Thursday, March 9th, Mayor Dwight C. Jones held a press conference at ECD's headquarters at Main Street Station to announce the creation of a tourism commission tasked to focus on three issues: how to manage the tourist experience, how to expand and support local attractions, and how to market the city in a way that continually attracts visitors. To view the NBC Channel 12 highlight video and read the full article, please click here.
JPMorgan Chase Opens Downtown Office
Richmond BizSense reports that the New York banking giant JPMorgan Chase announced on Sunday, March 6, 2011 that it is moving its local team from Innsbrook to Three James Center. JPMorgan spokesman Michael Fusco said the company also has plans for further expansion that could include Richmond. To read the full article, please click here.
Richmond Ranks 4th Best City for Commuters
In its "10 Best Cities for Commuters" online article, Kiplinger.com ranked Richmond as 4th best in the nation, noting the gas prices in the area are lower than the national average and the network of major highways that feed right through the center of the city. To read the full article, please click here.
RFP for Brand Development, Website Design & Creative Services Posted
On March 1, 2011, Economic & Community Development issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Brand Development, Website Design and Marketing Services. To read the complete RFP, please click here, a link within the City of Richmond's Department of Procurement Services (www.richmondgov.com/procurement). Please direct any questions regarding this RFP to the listed contact in the RFP.
Hull Street Renaissance Underway
Click here to view the video posted on the River District News blog of a NBC 12 feature highlighting the infrastructure improvements being made by the City.
The video highlights Papa's Pizza, a restaurant that opened in Manchester in March, 2010 with assistance through the City of Richmond's Economic & Community Development Commercial Area Revitalization Effort (CARE) program and the Enterprise Zone Program. Both programs are administered by the Department of Economic & Community Development. For more information on these programs, please click here.
Congratulations to Richmond's "Best Places To Work" in Virginia Awardees
The February issue of Virginia Business Magazine highlighted the commonwealth's best places to work and featured the following city of Richmond companies:
Best Small Employers:
#1 CRT/tanaka LLC - Public relations and marketing
#4 Kinsale Insurance Co - Excess and surplus lines
Best Midsize Employers:
#9 Allen, Allen & Allen - Legal
#10 Vaco Richmond LLC - Consulting/professional services
Best Large Employers:
#6: Davenport & Co. LLC - Investments
#19 Virginia Farm Bureau - Agriculture/insurance
Richmond in Top Ten Cities for Filmakers
CBS 6 News highlighted Richmond's newest accolade of being named by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the ten best cities in the country to "live, work and make movies." To read the CBS 6 article, please click here. To read the full article in MovieMaker Magazine, please click here.
New Homes for Sale Brochure Now Available Online
Click here to view the beautiful homes that are now for sale through ECD's neighborhood revitalization partners including Better Housing Coalition, Lifetime Homes and Southside Community Development & Housing Corporation.
Census 2010 Results: City of Richmond Population is Increasing
Results from the 2010 Census for the Richmond region were released Thursday, February 3, 2011 showing that the city of Richmond's population has increased for the first time in 40 years from 197,790 residents in 2000 to 204,214 in 2010. To read more about the results of the 2010 Census, please click below.
NBC 12 News
ABC 8 WRIC
Mayor Jones Gives Second State of the City Address
On Thursday, February 3, 2011 Mayor Dwight C. Jones held his second State of the City Address to a full house at the recently renovated Hippodrome Theater in historic Jackson Ward. Many news outlets covered this speech. Click below to read news articles and view video clips from the event.
CBS 6 News
RVA News
Mayor Dwight C. Jones' State of the City Address
This Thursday, February 3rd, 2011, Mayor Dwight C. Jones will present the State of the City Address at a public event held at the Hippodrome Theater in historic Jackson Ward from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, please click here.
Study Recommends Downtown as Site for New Richmond Coliseum/Arena
The Coliseum Study consultants issued recommendations for the site of a new arena of 14,000 to 15,000 seats to be constructed downtown between 8th and 10th Streets, next to the existing Richmond Coliseum site. The cost estimate for a new downtown arena is $147 million. Click here to review the full report.
Two city of Richmond hotels receive coveted AAA awards
In a January 27, 2011 article in the Richmond Times Dispatch by John Reid Blackwell, two hotel located in the city received the coveted AAA rating of four- or five- diamonds. Less than 4 percent of the properties evaluated by AAA inspectors receive the four- or five- diamond awards. The Berkeley Hotel received a four-diamond rating for the 22nd year and The Jefferson Hotel received the five-diamond award for the 18th consecutive year, the only hotel in Virginia to receive this award. To read the full article, please click here.
"We want to be part of the resurgence occurring downtown"
Reported by Al Harris in the January 17th, 2011 edition of Richmond BizSense, one of Rchmond's oldest skyscrapers is about to get the apartment-conversion treatment. Local development firm Hunt Investments LLC and the Virginia Beach-based Armada Hoffler together purchased the building at 700 E Franklin Street for $7.2 million. The historic building is planned to be converted into 115 units of studios and one- and two- bedroom apartments. Tony Nero, president of Armada Hoffler said his firm hopes to pursue more projects in the Richmond area. "We've obviously developed a lot of relationships in Richmond, and we want to be part of the resurgence occurring downtown." To read the full article, click here.
2010 Digital Cities Focus: Richmond, Virginia Praised for Innovation
In a January 26, 2011 article posted by Wayne Hanson with Digital Cities, the city of Richmond's Department of Information Technology (DIT) is highlighted for the innovative cost-saving projects that earned the city three digital government achievement awards and an honorable mention in 2010. To read the complete article, please click here.
Fast-Growing Firm Expands at Biotech Park in City of Richmond
Health Diagnostic Laboratory, Inc. celebrated the opening of its expanded office and laboratory space within Virginia BioTechnology Park in the City of Richmond on Wednesday, January 19th. Since its founding in 2009, HDL has grown from a staff of 11 to about 180 with revenue reaching about $70 million in 2010. To read the full article, please click here.
Richmond Highlighted as Tourism Destination
The City of Richmond has been highlighted by the Today Show and Daily Candy, the New York edition, as a hotspot to spend a 3-day weekend. Click here to view the Today Show feature and here to view the Daily Candy article.
USA Reports Richmond International Airport a "Road Warrior" Favorite
USA Today reports today on the popularity of regional airports by "road warriors" who log millions of miles each year and highlights Richmond International Airport (RIC)as being a top favorite.To read the full article, click here. To learn more about Richmond International Airport, including the newest nonstop services to Miami and Minneapolis/ St. Paul, please click here.
Richmond Ranked 7th Best City for Business
According to the Wall Street Journal's online magazine Marketwatch, Richmond ranked seventh in this year's review of the best cities in the country for business. Marketwatch states, "Richmond boasts the best of both worlds; it's about an hur and a half to metro Washington by car, yet it's a lower-cost, relatively smaller city." Washington, D.C. was ranked the top city for business this year. To read the full article, please click here.
Mayor Jones Announces Richmond's Eligibility to Pursue Federal EDA Funding
Mayor Dwight C. Jones' resolution to validate the City Administration's process for completing a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) was adopted by Richmond City Council during its final session of 2010. CEDS is an analytical document, which considers important economic development assets and opportunities, such as infrastructure, workforce development, target industries, and others. While the CEDS is an important tool to help the City achieve its economic development goals, it is also a prerequisite for access to many of the funding opportunities through the EDA. Richmond's approved CEDS strategy has now been submitted to the Economic Development Administration (EDA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce. To read the full CEDS, please click here.
Richmond Receives Award for Environmental Pioneering Work
The city of Richmond received the Sierra Club Falls of the James Group's Green Giant Award for it's environmental pioneering work, as it is the first major locality in the region to hire a sustainability manager and an energy manager to develop a comprehensive program to improve overall energy performance and increase sustainability. Among other items, the comprehensive program includes establishing a baseline greenhouse gas emissions inventory, retrofitting 220 intersections with LED lights by the end of 2010, and creating two new green alleys with permeable pavers to reduce storm water run-off. To read the full story through the Alliance for Innovation website, please click here.
Mayor Jones Opens "RVA on Ice"
Richmond's newest downtown attraction opened to the public Wednesday, December 22, 2010. Mayor Dwight C. Jones opened the new outdoor seasonal ice skating rink "RVA on Ice" to an excited group of citizens eager to watch the professional ice skaters perform and take on turn on the rink as well. Click here to view a video from CBS 6 News' Mark Holmberg during the opening celebration and read about visiting details.
Richmond Represents USA in Bid for 1015 Cycling World Championship
On Tuesday, December 21, 2010 Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced the City of Richmond's bid to the International Cycling Union (UCI) to host the 2015 World Championship. To view the Mayor's announcement, please click here. To read an article regarding USA's bid in Cycling Weekly, please click here.
Richmond CenterStage Receives National Award for Historic Renovation and Reconstruction
Richmond CenterStage was recently awarded by Building Design and Construction Magazine the 2010 Reconstruction Award. Wilson Butler Architects and the building and construction teams at Gilbane Building Company and Christman Construction worked together to design and build this regional performing arts center, including the renovation of the historic Carpenter Theatre. "This award once again reminds Richmonders how fortunate we are to have a world-class performing arts facility in our backyard," said CenterStage Foundation Executive Director Richard M. Parison, Jr. "We are grateful to be recognized and proud to be such an integral part of the revitalization of Downtown Richmond." The City of Richmond is the owner/developer of the property. To read more more, please click here.
GRTC New Headquarters Honored with Industrial Project of the Year
The Greater Richmond Transit Co.'s new $37-milion Bus Operations and Maintenance Facility located in Richmond won Mid-Atlantic Construction's honor of Industrial Project of the Year. The GRTC system is the oldest mass transportation system in the United States. After over 100 years of operating out if its Cary Street facilities, GRTC needed a 21st century facility to support the company for the next 100+ years. The new maintenance building was completed on time, and the administration building was occupied two months early. The project was completed approximately $2 million under budget. It is the first public building in Richmond to achieve LEED Silver certification. For additional information, please click here.
New Tourism Signage Coming to RVA
Richmond Biz Sense features an article today by Al Harris about the city's plan to update the outdated tourism signage around the city. The New York firm Two Twelve Associates in partnership with local firm BAM Architects have been hired by the city in response to requests from local cultural institutions, businesses and tourist attractions to update the signage, according to Rachel Flynn, director of the city planning and development review department. To read the full article in Richmond Biz Sense, please click here.
Megabus.com Starts Service at Richmond's Main Street Station
Today's Richmond Times Dispatch features an article by Peter Bacqu about the new discount intercity busy service that has begun operations in downtown Richmond. The express bus company started its service yesterday and already more than doubled its operations. Megabus is running seven daily departures from Richmond's departure location opposite Main Street Station. The City of Richmond's transportation planner Viktoria Badger notes that this kind of acceptance has implications for the region's efforts to develop the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor through Richmond. To read the full article, please click here.
City Hosting Two Free Holiday Events Friday, December 3
The city of Richmond invites you to historic Shockoe Bottom on Friday, December 3, for a free Polar Express themed Holiday Open House at Main Street Station, 1500 East Main Street, and the free 12th Annual Holiday Market at the 17th Street Farmers' Market, 100 North 17th Street. For more details, please click here.
Richmond Places First in 2010 Digital Cities Survey
The city of Richmond placed first in its population range in the 2010 Digital Cities Survey which is conducted by the Center for Digital Government and Government Technology magazine. For additional information on this award, please click here.
Happy National Entrepreneurs' Day!
President Barack Obama proclaimed this week of November 14 through November 20, 2010 as National Entrepreneurship Week and November 19, 2010 as National Entrepreneurs' Day. To read the full Presidential Proclamation, please click here.
ECD Launches Richmond Workforce Pipeline
The City of Richmond's Department of Economic & Community Development Workforce Development Division has launched the Richmond Workforce Pipeline, an initiative to prepare residents for jobs, including ones tied to the planned construction of new jail and four schools. To learn more and read the Richmond Times Dispatch article, please click here.
The City is Accepting Applications for the 2011-2013 General Fund Non-Departmental and Federal Fund Budgets
The city of Richmond's Department of Economic & Community Development Neighborhood Revitalization Division is now accepting applications for the 2011-2013 General Fund Non-Departmental and Federal Fund Budgets. For full details, please click here.
The City is Now Accepting Applications
Mayor, City Council and School Board Present Unified Front
The City of Richmond presented its legislative priorities for the 2011 Virginia General Assembly during a breakfast meeting with members of the state delegation. This is the first year the Mayor, City Council and Richmond Public Schools have presented a unified legislative agenda.
The City is calling for support from the state delegation in moving forward with educational opportunities for all of Richmond's children; reducing urban blight; increasing economic development; creating and retaining businesses and jobs; and investing in workforce readiness, training and development.
For additional details and the full press release, please click here.
Kick Off of Shockoe Bottom Economic Revitalization Strategy
The City of Richmond's Department of Economic and Community Development has hired Bay Area Economics for the purpose of developing an Economic Revitalization Strategy for Shockoe Bottom to guide the area's future growth.
The Strategy will build upon previous planning efforts, including the recently adopted Downtown Plan, by further refining the vision of the future for this portion of Downtown Richmond. Evaluation of land use/zoning, architecture, urban design, economic development, history, the natural environment, storm water management, public infrastructure, multi-modal transportation, tourism/culture, and parking will be considered and compiled into an implementable strategy. The Strategy will include up-to-date demographic and economic profiles, a retail gap analysis, existing and future market competition as well as market demand for specific uses and recommendations. The Strategy will provide stakeholders in the area, from both the public and private sectors, with specific guidance toward effectively implementing the vision.
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT: CHARRETTE AND TEAM WORK SESSIONS:
Public forums and team work sessions have been scheduled to engage the Shockoe community to insure public engagement and inclusion in the development of the Economic Revitalization Strategy. The focus will be the citizens and their vision for their community. The work shops are intended as listening and learning sessions, for the collection of ideas, concerns and observations. Please plan to attend these sessions on November 16, 17, 18.
Monday November 15, 6 – 8 PM
Opening Session and Charrette
Location: Main St. Station, Train Station – 2nd Floor
1500 E. Main St., Richmond, Va. 23219
The Opening Session will be a brief overview of existing physical and market conditions and issues and opportunities of development in Shockoe. The majority of the meeting will be small working groups working on exercises Bay Area Economics will lead the community through. The exercises are tailored to confirm overall vision, but mostly focus on the "catalytic projects" (both public and private).
Tuesday November 16, 9 – 5 PM
Wednesday November 17, 9 – 5 PM
Team Work Sessions
Location: Main St. Station, Office of Economic and Community Development – take elevator to 4th Floor, take stairs to the 5th Floor
The Team Work Sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday are the consultants' work sessions. The public is invited to attend to stop in and observe the process. If you are unable to attend on Monday night's Opening Session and you want to share information with the consultant team, please stop by one of the Team Work Sessions.
Presentation of Findings & Concluding Session
The Presentation of Findings on Wednesday evening will be a presentation of proposed plans and conceptual projects for public comment. The public will be asked to advise what projects they would consider priority.
Please see the attached Shockoe Bottom Economic Revitalization Strategy Public Input Sessions information flyer for details.
FREE PARKING FOR ALL SESSIONS:
Plaza at Main St. Station: directly across from Main St. Station (free with validation, bring your parking ticket with you to the sessions)
West Lot: accessible via Franklin St. on the west side of Main St. Station
Mayor Joins Celebration of C'est Le Vin Grand Opening in Shockoe Bottom Today
Mayor Jones and the city of Richmond will celebrate the grand opening of C'est Le Vin Art and Wine Gallery today, Thursday, October 28 at 4:30 p.m. at 15 N. 17th Street. C'est Le Vin is opening in Shockoe Bottom with financial assistance from the city's Department of Economic & Community Development Commercial Area Revitalization Effort (CARE) Program. For additional information, please click here.
213 New Jobs Coming to City of Richmond
Governor McDonnell announced on Wednesday, October 27, 2010 that Health Diagnostic Laboratory, Inc. (HDL, Inc.) is investing $4.2 million in its operation in the City of Richmond. HDL, Inc., located in the Virginia Biotechnology Research Park, is expanding its clinical laboratory, diagnostics and clinical trial services, as well as its physician/patient consulting. The project will create 213 new jobs. To learn more about this expansion, please click here.
City CARE Program Helps Companies Relocate to Richmond
A September 29th article in Richmond BizSense highlights success stories of companies that relocated to Richmond with the assistance of the city of Richmond's Commercial Area Revitalization Effort (CARE) program. To read more, click here.
Southwest to buy AirTran
According to a story by NBC12.com, Southwest has announced plans to buy AirTran for $1.4 billion. Richmond International Airport spokesman Troy Bell said, "We think it opens up many opportunities." CEO of Southwest, Gary Kelly said, "This means more airplanes, more routes, more customers and importantly more profit." To learn more, click here.
Richmond Experiences Burgeoning Arts District
A September 27th article in Richmond BizSense highlights a number of new shops that are opening in Richmond along Broad Street, between Belvidere and First Streets. To read more about the new businesses coming to Richmond, click here.
City of Richmond Dedicated to Boosting Tourism
A September 26th article in the Richmond Times Dispatch titled, "City developing plan to help visitors take in historic riches," highlights preparations Richmond is making for the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War. Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones' administration has dedicated nearly $1 million to help tourists navigate the city and Governor Bob McDonnell added $3.6 million to the state tourism budget. To read the full article, please click here.
Section 3 Informational Forum Summary Is Now Available
A detailed summary of information captured from the Thursday, August 12th Section 3 Public Informational Forum is now available. To view the report, please click here.
City Receives Digital Achievement Awards
The city of Richmond Department of Information Technology (DIT) was recognized for several digital achievements as e.Republic's Center for Digital Government announced its 2010 Best of the Web and Digital Government Achievement Awards. For additional information and a listing of the awards received, please click here.
City Celebrates Relocation of A Blooming Child Petite Academy
On Thursday, September 9th, 2010 the city of Richmond celebrated the relocation of A Blooming Chiled Petite Academy at their new 300 West Clay Street location. The Academy is opening in Jackson Ward with financial assistance from the city's Department of Economic & Community Development's Commercial Area Revitalization Effort Program (CARE). For more information, please click here.
Coliseum Study Group Unveils Update on Preliminary Findings
On Thursday, September 9th, the city of Richmond held a media briefing to provide an update on the Coliseum Study and offer preliminary market findings and the site selection process. Mayor Dwight C. Jones comments on the study, saying, "We want a facility that accomodates what this market can support and what this market deserves." For additional information regarding this report and the Mayor's response, please click here.
Richmond 3rd "Best Tennis Town" by United States Tennis Association
On September 6th, 2010 the United States Tennis Association announced at the U.S. Open in New York City that the city of Richmond was selected as second runner-up ina contest to determine the country's "Best Tennis Town." For additional information about this honor, please read the the Richmond Times Dispatch article here.
Update: Section 3 Informational Forum
The City/RRHA planning team is completing its review of the information gathered from the small group discussions held on August 12, 2010 regarding Section 3. Thank you for all your input. Please visit our websites beginning the week of September 20th to view summaries and to learn information regarding upcoming meetings. Thank you! For information, please click here.
Economic & Community Development Photo Gallery Now Live
Please click here to view pictures from three recent events organized by the Department of Economic & Community Development with their partners: The East End Planning Charrette, the Luscious Lashes Grand Opening, and the Pfizer Celebration.
Free Small Business Resource Summit
The city of Richmond's Department of Economic & Community Development will have representatives at the Small Business Resource Summit at John Tyler Community College, Chester Campus on August 26th, 2010 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. Hosted by The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Small Business Administration, this free event will be a "one-stop shopping" opportunity that brings together small business and farm service providers. For additional information, please click here.
New Neighborhoods in Bloom Homes for Sale
A new flyer highlighting homes for sale through the Neighborhoods in Bloom housing partners, including Better Housing Coalition, Lifetime Homes, Southside Community Development & Housing Corporation, is now available on the city's Economic & Community Development Department website. To view the homes currently for sale, click here.
City of Richmond Contractor Assistance Program
The city of Richmond's Office of Minority Business Development (OMBD) and the Department of Economic & Community Development (ECD) invite local businesses to submit pre-applications for financing under the newly created Contractor Assistance Loan Program. This loan program represents one of several measures being implemented by the Mayor Dwight C. Jones administration to address challenges faced by under-utilized businesses and entrepreneurs. For additional information, please click here.
City's Shockoe Chef Showdown this Weekend at 17th Street Farmers' Market
The city of Richmond's 17th Street Farmers' Market and the Shockoe Bottom Neighborhood Association present the third annual Shockoe Chef Showdown this Saturday, August 14th, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For details on the day's events, please click here.
Section 3 Informational Forum Today
The City and RRHA are holding a public informational forum on Section 3 opportunities in the city this Thursday, August 12th from 10:00 AM to Noon and 6 PM to 8 PM. The meetings will be held at the Richmond Police Training Facility Auditorium on 1202 West Graham Road. For additional information, please click here.
Mayor Jones Successfully Negotiates to Retain Pfizer Consumer Health R&D in City of Richmond
On Tuesday, June 29, 2010 Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced that the city of Richmond and Pfizer Consumer Healthcare agreed to maintain the business unit's Sherwood Avenue R&D operations in the city of Richmond. The agreement will retain more than 300 jobs locally and continue the long-standing civic-corporate partnership. For additional information, click here.
Southside Business Relocates with City Assistance
The city of Richmond welcomed the grand opening of Luscious Lashes, 4708 North Southside Plaza, on Thursday, June 24th. Owner Tamala White opened the business utilizing financial tools from the CARE Program offered by the city's Department of Economic & Community Development. To learn more, click here.
Regional and Corporate Study Kicks Off This Week on the Future of the Richmond Coliseum
The firms of Barrett Sports Group, LLC., Populous and Weston Sports have been contracted to jointly conduct a Market Validation and Financial Feasibility study on the future of the Richmond Coliseum. The corporate and public partners of Altria Group, Inc., Dominion Resources, Inc., Genworth Financial, Inc., MeadWestvaco, City of Richmond, Chesterfield County, Hanover County and Henrico County unanimously selected this team to conduct the extensive study. The kick-off meeting for the study was held yesterday, June 10th. Click the following links for more details.
WTVR
Best Places for Business & Careers 2010: Richmond Places in Top 50 on Forbes List
In a Forbes Magazine special report titled Best Places for Businesses And Careers, the Richmond metro area ranked 50th. Criteria for ranking included the cost of doing business, job growth projected, and educational attainment. Click here to read the full report.
East End Vision Charrette Begins this Week
A series of public engagement meetings, known as a Charrette, and designed to plan for the revitalization of the East End and Nine Mile Corridor will take place on June 2-7, at various locations in Church Hill and the East End. The intensive week-long session will include a number of sessions open to the public. For more information, visit the charrette website here or read the recent Channel 12 news report here.
MeadWestvaco To Move 128 Jobs to Richmond
Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that MeadWestvaco will relocate its Center for Packaging Innovation from Raleigh, N.C., to Richmond. It is estimated that MeadWestvaco will invest $10 million in the new CPI facilities. John A. Luke, Jr., chairman and chief executive office of MWV states, "By bringing our innovation experts together with our teams in Richmond, we will improve the real-time interaction and collaboration on which our business thrives. The move will also allow us to take full advantage of our world class headquarters." To read the full article at NBC12.com, click here.
Williams Mullen Law Firm Moves to New City Office Building
Today's Richmond Times Dispatch reported that in a few weeks 275 Williams Mullen employees will move into their brand new headquarters in downtown Richmond. The $62 million, 16-story building has 258,000 square feet of office space, parking and retail. To read the full article, click here.
Delta Adding Three Daily Nonstop Flights Between RIC and New York
According to the Richmond Times Dispatch, Delta Air Lines announced that it will increase its daily nonstop flights between Richmond and New York City from four to seven. Aviation industry consultant Michael Boyd, president of Boyd Group International, based in Evergreen, Colorado says, "When you look at access to the world, Richmond's in very good shape." To read the full article, click here.
Mayor Jones and Bon Secours Announce East End Planning Initiative
Mayor Dwight C. Jones and Peter J. Bernard, CEO of Bon Secours Virginia, announced today a public design workshop, best known as a charrette, to revitalize the East End and Nine Mile Road corridor. The charrette will take place June 2nd through June 7th at various Church Hill and East End locations. To learn more, click here.
City's Department of Economic & Community Development Relocates to Main Street Station
The newly formed Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) has begun operations in its new office space within historic Main Street Station, located in Shockoe Bottom. "DECD's move to Shockoe Bottom firmly anchors that department into the things that are quintessential to the city of Richmond: African-American heritage and historic themes, manufacturing, general business, trade, transportation, government, literature, and architecture." To view the full press release, please click here.
Workshop Tomorrow: "We All Win: Housing for People with Barriers Renting & Profiting Together"
Tomorrow, Friday, April 23, 2010, the HUD Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships presents "We All Win: Housing for People with Barriers Renting & Profiting Together." Held at the 25th Street Community Service Center at 15th and M Streets, sessions begin at 1:15 and 2:30 p.m. For additional information, please click here.
Historic 17th Street Farmers' Market Season Opening this Saturday, April 14!
The season opening of the historic 17th Street Farmers' Market is this Saturday, April 24th. Growers' Market hours are between 9:00 am and 4:00. Please click here to visit the market's website for more information on the market and additional special events scheduled throughout the season. Sign up online to receive additional special event information!
Proposed 2010-2011 Consolidated Action Plan Available Now
Wednesday, March 31, 2010: The Mayor's proposed 2010-2011 Consolidated Action Plan and budget for the use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnership (HOME), Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG), and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) programs was introduced at City Council on March 22nd and is now available for public review and comment. There are also copies of the document available for review at each of the public library branches. City Council will hold a public hearing to receive public comment on the annual Action Plan and budget at their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, April 26th at 6:00 PM. The document must be approved by City Council and submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) by May 15th, 2010.
Want Google Fiber in Richmond? We Need Your Help!
Friday, March 26, 2010: Help Richmond win a project that will bring ultra-high speed broadband to our community...it is the technological equivalent of winning the Olympics! Today the city of Richmond will submit an application for the Google Fiber for Communities Project that will build a broadband network that delivers internet speeds more than 100 times faster than what most Americans have access to today. One of the biggest factors in Google's decision is community support! Click here to find out how you can help make this happen for Richmond.
City Welcomes Grand Opening of Papa's Pizza
Thursday, March 11, 2010: Papa's Pizza held its grand opening celebration on Friday, March 12th, 2010. Business owners utilized financial assistance tools available through the city's Department of Economic & Community Development's Commercial Area Revitalization Effort (CARE) and Enterprise Zone programs. To read the full press release, click here.
City Tax Sale Auction Coming Up
Thursday, March 25, 2010: The next city of Richmond tax sale auction will be held Tuesday, March 30th at Motley's Auction and Realty Group located at 4402 West Broad Street. For more information and a listing of the properties, please click here.
Friday, March 12, 2010: Papa's Pizza held its grand opening celebration today at their 214 Hull Street location. Utilizing financial assistance from the Department of Economic & Community Development's Commercial Area Revitalization Effort (CARE) and Enterprise Zone programs, this new Manchester district small business offers tradition New York style pizza. Click here for additional information.
MeadWestVaco Celebrates New Downtown Headquarters
March 2, 2010: MeadWestVaco held its grand opening celebration last night. Their new nine-story headquarters overlooking the James River is home to up to 700 employees and includes a state-of-the-art gym facility and cafeteria. Click below to read stories of the grand opening event from various news sources.
NBC12 News
Virginia Business
Movieland Sucess on Boulevard - Story by CBS 6 News
Monday, March 1, 2010: Click here to read the CBS 6 story highlighting the popularity of Richmond's Movieland theater along the Boulevard corridor. This past Saturday marked the theater's one-year anniversary in the city.
Apartments Planned for Reynolds Downtown Parcel
February 26, 2010: Richmond Times Dispatch reports on future downtown development of former Reynolds Manufacturing industrial buildings into 170 apartments. Restaurants, retail shops and entertainment venues are likely to follow. To read this article, click here.
Neighborhoods In Bloom Houses For Sale
February 22, 2010: Click here to view current properties for sale in NiB program areas such as the Blackwell, Church Hill, Carver, Highland Park and Swansboro neighborhoods. For more information on these properties, please contact the developers, which include Better Housing Coalition, Lifetime Homes and Southside Community Development Housing Corporation.
Remodeling Carytown
February 22, 2010: Richmond BizSense reports on future streetscape improvements in Carytown. To read the full article, click here.
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