Posted January 9, 2025

~Your voice matters: Join the conversation Jan. 14 from 5 - 7 p.m. at Main Street Station~ 

Richmond, VA – The City of Richmond, in partnership with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and Drive Smart Virginia, is launching a community-led seat belt safety initiative to further reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities. The effort builds on Richmond’s ongoing Vision Zero commitment to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries through safer streets, safer speeds, and safer behaviors using education, engineering, and enforcement.  

This initiative will launch with a series of free, public community meetings to increase seat belt safety and usage. The first meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Main Street Station, 1500 East Main Street.

Subsequent meetings will also be held at Main Street Station on the following dates: January 28, February 5, and February 19. The meetings will provide residents with a forum to share their experiences, ideas, and recommendations for improving seat belt use. Feedback from the meetings will help ensure messaging reflects community needs. 

"Improving seat belt use is a critical part of keeping people safe, but our Vision Zero work goes beyond cars to protect everyone on our streets," said Mayor Danny Avula. "Seat belts remain one of the simplest ways to save lives, yet unbelted occupants account for 65% of local crash deaths, and too many residents remain unbuckled. Through partnerships with IIHS, Drive Smart Virginia, and the community, we're working to prevent pedestrian deaths and make every street safer for all."

“Community engagement is at the heart of sustainable behavior change,” said Kristin Pettway, Executive Director for Drive Smart Virginia. “By incorporating residents’ perspectives, Richmond is setting a model for how cities can protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.” 

“Richmond’s work demonstrates the power of pairing research-based strategies with community input,” said David Harkey, President of IIHS. “Engaging residents in traffic safety initiatives helps ensure interventions are tailored to local needs.” 

The community is encouraged to attend, share their voice, bring a neighbor or friend, and register for the meeting at [email protected] to help increase seat belt safety across Richmond. 

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk, and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; parking enforcement; urban forestry; street signs; traffic signals and pavement markings and civil engineering. In addition, DPW issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station, the RVA Bike Share program. DPW’s operating budget comes from the general fund of the City of Richmond.  For more information about DPW services, click here or call 3-1-1

 The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries, and property damage from motor vehicle crashes through research and evaluation and through education of consumers, policymakers, and safety professionals.

DRIVE SMART Virginia is a non-profit organization charged with raising awareness and changing behavior to improve the safety of the roadways of the Commonwealth. We have endeavored to improve the lives of all Virginians through our public information and education initiatives. Founded in 1995, the organization is led by a diverse board representing safety advocates, the insurance industry and law enforcement.

Posted January 9, 2026

Richmond, VA – Due to forecasted weather, The City of Richmond’s Bring One for Chipper E-Cycle Event, originally scheduled for January 10, has been rescheduled to Saturday, January 17 to protect the safety of residents, volunteers, staff, and vendors.

NEW Event Details: 

Who:   The Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW), The Clean City Commission, and the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (CVWMA)

What: 17th Annual Richmond Bring One for the Chipper Christmas Tree Recycling E-Cycle Event

When: Saturday, January 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (New Date)

Where: 1710 Robin Hood Road (23220)

  Northeast corner of Robin Hood Road & North Arthur Ashe Boulevard

The city offers this event to promote responsible recycling, sustainability and to help reduce waste in our community. Richmond residents can recycle their Christmas trees, shred sensitive documents, and drop off old electronics – all in one easy drive-through location with curbside assistance from our volunteers. Proper recycling helps save natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and diverts waste from landfills. It also helps keep city waterways, streams, and rivers clean.

 This free event is available to city residents – proof of residency is required. No commercial or business items will be accepted. 

Note: some fees apply to recycling electronics (go to rva.gov/public-works/clean-city-commission and click on the tab for recycling to get the list of fees listed in the table section). 

Christmas Tree Recycling Options | no charge (please remove all lights and decorations):

Trees will be chipped into mulch onsite and used in local parks, gardens, and for landscapes. Free mulch will be available.

• Tree Drop-off: Residents can drop off their trees at the following locations or use the curbside option:

1. 1710 Robin Hood Road on the day of the event or prior to the event
   
   • If dropping off prior to the recycling event, please place the tree in the designated area
   • Note: No trees will be accepted at 1710 Robin Hood Road after the event ends at 2 p.m. on January 17, 2026.
2. East Richmond Road Convenience Center (ERRCC), located at 3800 East Richmond Road
   
   • The ERRCC hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday
3. Curbside Collection Instructions – handled by the department’s bulk and brush team:
   
   • Please place your Christmas tree (with no lights or decorations) beside your recycle cart and it will be picked up on your regular recycle collection day (or during the week) by the bulk and brush team (not by CVWMA).
   • The team will collect Christmas trees curbside after through Thursday, January 15.
   • Note: All trees collected curbside or dropped off at the ERRCC will be recycled. 

This recycling event also includes:

Paper Shredding – no charge

Securely shred personal documents to prevent identity theft and keep sensitive information safe. 

• Up to five (5) paper bags or boxes of paper documents
• Remove staples and clips
• Paper shredded onsite

Electronics – various fees apply

Electronics will be collected for environmentally responsible disposal.

• Computer systems (hard drive or CPU) and accessories (cables, wires, keyboards, mice, speakers, etc.) VCRs, camcorders, stereos, and all phones
• Televisions, computer monitors and printers
• Other electronic equipment (almost anything with a plug - see the online list for clarification)
• To get fees and the full list of electronics go to:
  • www.rva.gov/public-works/clean-city-commission and click on the tab for recycling

For more information on DPW, please visit us online at rva.gov/public-works or email us at [email protected] 

We’re Social! For updates on DPW-related projects, activities and events visit us on X @DPW_RichmondVA or on Instagram at RVACleanCityCommission 

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; parking enforcement; urban forestry; street signs; traffic signals and pavement markings and civil engineering. In addition, DPW issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station, the RVA Bike Share program. DPW’s operating budget comes from the general fund of the City of Richmond.  For more information about DPW services, click here or call 3-1-1

Posted December 22, 2025

~ Community input needed by January 16, 2026 ~

Richmond, VA – The Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is inviting the community to share their input on making Richmond’s intersections safer through low-cost/high-impact engineering treatments. Feedback from both surveys will help inform projects throughout the city.

Data shows that since 2017, intersections have been the location of 82 percent of all fatal and serious injury crashes in Richmond. Intersections require special attention because they involve multiple conflict points among all modes of travel. At any given time, people are walking, rolling, cycling, and driving in multiple directions at various speeds. 

Survey #1: 

This survey focuses on improving safety at intersections using Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper (LQC) approaches. LQC is a planning and design strategy that allows the city to test and refine safety ideas quickly, using low-cost, flexible materials such as paint, flexible posts, signs, and temporary curb elements. These improvements can be adjusted over time based on how they perform and on community feedback. 

Survey Link #1: https://arcg.is/1W0en5

Survey #2: 

This survey highlights more than 400 quick-build intersection improvements across Richmond. Safety improvements include:

• Left-turn hardening (85 intersections)
• Low-cost improvements (275 intersections)
• High-visibility crosswalks (58 intersections)

Left-turn hardening is a low-cost, quick-build traffic calming measure that uses modular curbs and striping to reduce left-turning speeds and prevent “corner cutting” by people who drive. The installations minimize the conflict area between turning vehicles and people walking, rolling, or biking.

Survey Link #2: https://arcg.is/0fSTnn1

LQC approaches are often used to test and refine safety concepts, while quick-build projects apply proven designs to deliver improvements at scale. Together, these strategies allow Richmond to improve street safety faster, more affordably, and with greater community input.

Community feedback from these surveys will help DPW:

• Improve safety for all road users
• Prioritize locations with the greatest safety needs
• Deliver safety benefits quickly and equitably

Both surveys are open now, and responses must be submitted by January 16, 2026.

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; parking enforcement; urban forestry; street signs; traffic signals and pavement markings and civil engineering. In addition, DPW issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station, the RVA Bike Share program. DPW’s operating budget comes from the general fund of the City of Richmond. The Department’s mission is to provide a clean, safe, and healthy environment.  For more information about DPW services, click here or call 3-1-1

The LQC program is a key initiative in the city’s efforts to promote transportation equity, improve public safety, and foster community engagement in urban planning. As the first phase of the Richmond Connects implementation process, LQC aims to address pressing safety concerns and provide more immediate solutions while longer-term, permanent infrastructure changes are being developed. Although LQC projects are not intended to replace permanent infrastructure, they provide essential, timely improvements to make streets safer and more accessible in the interim. For more information go to rva.gov/public-works/lqc

Posted December 18, 2025

~ The opening reception will be held January 9, 2026 from 6 – 8 p.m. ~

Richmond, VA – Main Street Station announces the Second Annual “I Love Main Street Station” Art Gallery Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of local artists, creativity, and community connection. The exhibit will run January 9 – 30, 2026 with the opening reception from 6 – 8 p.m. on January 9. The gallery, located inside Main Street Station, 1500 East Main Street, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with free admission.

Building on the success of its inaugural year, the exhibit deepens the artistic celebration by expanding to also include a special collaboration with Gallery5, incorporating select pieces from their River City Rails exhibition. Bringing miniature train cars and imaginative tributes to Richmond’s railways into the gallery, this collaboration broadens the narrative—highlighting not only the landmark itself, but the larger Richmond rail culture that has shaped the identity and connectivity of the city.

Through a dynamic collection of paintings, sculptures, mixed media works, and railway-inspired art objects, the exhibition explores how transit, architecture, and memory come together to define place. The show reflects an ongoing commitment to arts, accessibility, community pride and reinforcing Main Street Station as a hub for cultural expression and a symbol of Richmond’s evolving story.

The opening reception will give attendees the chance to meet and engage in interactive art experiences. Voting will also open to select the top three exhibition winners. 

For more on Main Street Station, go to www.mainstreetstationrichmond.com

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; parking enforcement; urban forestry; street signs; traffic signals and pavement markings and civil engineering. In addition, DPW issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station, the RVA Bike Share program. DPW’s operating budget comes from the general fund of the City of Richmond. The Department’s mission is to provide a clean, safe, and healthy environment.  For more information about DPW services, click here or call 3-1-1

Main Street Station (MSS) is owned and operated by the Department of Public Works. Built in 1901, the station is centrally located in the heart of the city and is a historic transportation hub offering a blend of modern amenities, historic charm and classic, stunning architectural design. It features a grand central atrium, intricate stonework, head house, train shed, outdoor space (and patio), and a distinctive clock tower creating a lasting impression of Richmond along the I-95 corridor. This historic venue offers a unique setting for both public and private events. It provides Virginia and the northeast corridor a unique world-class event space that includes 47,000 square feet enclosed in glass, providing breathtaking views of downtown Richmond. It’s a top venue for weddings and events, appearing on numerous “best of” listings. Main Street Station serves as a key point for both Amtrak and local commuter rail services. The station is a vital connection to the region’s transportation network which include partnerships with bus services, such as, GRTC Pulse Bus Rapid Transit, Greyhound and various Megabus services. It also offers bike paths connecting to the Virginia Capital Trail. Described as an “architectural gem” by the United States Postal Service, MSS was selected and featured on a postage stamp! 

Posted December 10, 2025

This recycling event includes paper shredding, the collection of electronics, and Christmas trees 

Who:   The Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW), The Clean City Commission, and the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (CVWMA)

What: 17th Annual Richmond Bring One for the Chipper Christmas Tree Recycling E-Cycle Event

When: Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: 1710 Robin Hood Road (23220) Northeast corner of Robin Hood Road & North Arthur Ashe Boulevard

The city offers this event to promote responsible recycling, sustainability and to help reduce waste in our community. Richmond residents can recycle their Christmas trees, shred sensitive documents, and drop off old electronics – all in one easy drive-through location with curbside assistance from our volunteers. 

Proper recycling helps save natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and diverts waste from landfills. It also helps keep city waterways, streams, and rivers clean.

 This free event is available to city residents – proof of residency is required. No commercial or business items will be accepted. 

Note: some fees apply to recycling electronics (go to rva.gov/public-works/clean-city-commission and click on the tab for recycling to get the list of fees). 

Christmas Tree Recycling Options | no charge (please remove all lights and decorations):

Trees will be chipped into mulch onsite and used in local parks, gardens, and for landscapes. Free mulch will be available.

• Tree Drop-off: Residents can drop off their trees at the following two locations or use the curbside option:

1. 1710 Robin Hood Road on the day of the event or prior to the event
   
   • If dropping off prior to the recycling event, please place the tree in the designated area
   • Note: No trees will be accepted at 1710 Robin Hood Road after the event ends at 2 p.m. on January 10, 2026.
2. East Richmond Road Convenience Center (ERRCC), located at 3800 East Richmond Road
   
   • The ERRCC hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday
   • Residents can start dropping off Christmas trees after the holiday through January 8, 2026.
3. Curbside Collection Instructions – handled by the department’s bulk and brush team:
   
   • Please place your Christmas tree (with no lights or decorations) beside your recycle cart and it will be picked up on your regular recycle collection day (or during the week) by the bulk and brush team (not by CVWMA).
   • The team will collect Christmas trees curbside after the holiday through Thursday, January 8, 2026.
   • Note: All trees collected curbside or dropped off at the ERRCC will be recycled. 

This recycling event also includes:

Paper Shredding – no charge

Securely shred personal documents to prevent identity theft and keep sensitive information safe. 

• Up to five (5) paper bags or boxes of paper documents
• Remove staples and clips
• Paper shredded onsite

Electronics – various fees apply

Electronics will be collected for environmentally responsible disposal.

• Computer systems (hard drive or CPU) and accessories (cables, wires, keyboards, mice, speakers, etc.) VCRs, camcorders, stereos, and all phones
• Televisions, computer monitors and printers
• Other electronic equipment (almost anything with a plug - see the online list for clarification)
• To get fees and the full list of electronics go to:
  • www.rva.gov/public-works/clean-city-commission and click on the tab for recycling

For more information on DPW, please visit us online at rva.gov/public-works or email us at [email protected] 

We’re Social! For updates on DPW-related projects, activities and events visit us on X @DPW_RichmondVA or on Instagram at RVACleanCityCommission 

###

The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; parking enforcement; urban forestry; street signs; traffic signals and pavement markings and civil engineering. In addition, DPW issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station, the RVA Bike Share program. DPW’s operating budget comes from the general fund of the City of Richmond.  For more information about DPW services, click here or call 3-1-1