Statement: Mayor Avula to release affordable housing plan for Richmond
Hey Richmond, It's Your Mayor, Danny.
For me, the idea of home has always been about more than just a roof over our heads. It's about community. It's about belonging. It's about building a Richmond where everyone-regardless of income, background, or zip code-has the opportunity to thrive.
Twenty-five years ago, I came to Richmond for medical school. I stayed because I fell in love with this city: its people, its promise, and its potential. I planted roots in the East End, drawn by the vision of Dr. King's Beloved Community: a place where neighbors care for one another, where families grow together, and where everyone has a place.
Over the years, I've seen that vision challenged. Rising housing costs have pushed longtime residents out of the neighborhoods they helped build. The fabric of our communities has started to fray. That's why, from day one, my administration has made housing a top priority. It's Pillar Two of my Mayoral Action Plan.
We've been working hard to meet the housing needs of our city so that Richmonders at every income level can afford good housing in safe neighborhoods with strong public amenities. And now, we're preparing to take the next big step.
In mid-January, I'll be announcing my comprehensive Affordable Housing Strategy-a multi-tool approach designed to protect what makes Richmond special while building a future that's inclusive, equitable, and sustainable. We'll be using every tool available, including:
- The Affordable Housing Trust Fund
- Performance grants to support new development
- A code refresh to unlock more housing options
- And focused anti-displacement measures to protect longtime residents
This strategy recognizes what Richmonders have told me again and again: there's no single solution to our housing challenges. It will take creativity, collaboration, and commitment from all of us.
I invite you to watch my latest DannyCam where I share more about why this work matters so deeply to me and why it's central to the future we're building together.
I'm so excited to share more and to create, together, a city where everyone has a place, where everyone belongs, where everyone thrives.
In service,
Danny
