Posted March 24, 2026

RICHMOND, VA. – The Richmond Department of Transportation will start construction of a new traffic signal at the intersection of Broad Rock Boulevard at Orcutt Lane in early April. This project is another example of the city’s commitment to Vision Zero. 

This project prioritizes pedestrian safety with the installation of:

• ADA-compliant curb ramps
• High-Visibility crosswalks, and
• Countdown pedestrian signal heads

New high-visibility traffic signals with reflective backplates (HVSB) will improve signal recognition for drivers by creating contrast and enhancing visibility at night and in low-light conditions. 

Together, these engineering improvements have been proven to provide gaps in traffic for people walking and biking to Broad Rock Elementary School and accessing transit. 

“Every element of this project is designed with safety in mind – for people of all abilities,” said Richmond Transportation Director, Andy Boenau. “From high-visibility signals to accessible ramps and visible crossings, these upgrades work together to reduce risk and help save lives. This is what Vision Zero looks like in action.”

Construction will start in early April, weather permitting, and is expected to be completed by Fall 2026. 

During construction, there will be intermittent lane and sidewalk closures. Please give our construction workers extra space. Please slow down in work zones and whenever you see orange cones.

This $780,000 project is funded through Central Virginia Transportation Authority (CVTA), which supports transportation improvements across the region.

Vision Zero emphasizes safe systems approach to prevent severe crashes. By combining safe speeds, safe vehicles, safe roads, and safe people, and the best post-crash care, the City continues to build a healthier transportation network that prioritizes safe access using engineering, education, and enforcement.

For more information about Vision Zero, visit rva.gov/visionzero or email us at [email protected].

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

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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; urban forestry; civil engineering and capital improvement projects along with the Department of Transportation (DOT). DPW delivers essential services that keep the city clean, safe, and healthy. The DOT plans, builds and maintains the city’s transportation system to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility for all users. The department is responsible for traffic operations, street signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, bike lanes, and transportation programs that support economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Guided by the city’s Vision Zero commitment, the DOT works to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven policies, street design, and community partnerships. In addition, the DOT issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station and the RVA Bike Share Program. Report service requests to RVA311.com or call 3-1-1.

Posted March 20, 2026

~All service requests in the system by March 31 will be processed ~

RICHMOND, Va. – City of Richmond residents who still need vacuum leaf removal must request the service by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31. No requests will be accepted after that date. Service requests currently in the system and those made by the deadline will be processed. Vacuum service requests can be made using the RVA311 app, by visiting https://www.rva311.com or calling 3-1-1.

Residents have the option of paying the $30 vacuum leaf collection fee by adding it to their utility bill using the RVA 311 system (or by calling 3-1-1) or by mailing a check/money order to the Department of Public Works, Leaf Collection Program, 900 East Broad Street, Suite 704, Richmond, VA 23219. 

The payment must be received before the collection is scheduled. If mailing a check/money order, the payment must be received by the March 31 deadline.

Vacuum Leaf Collection Reminders:

• Leaves must be raked and ready for pickup at the time of the request

• Rake leaves to the property line (front or side) but not in the street

  • Do not block ditches, gutters, or the street 

• Remove any sticks, stones or other objects that may damage equipment

• Leaves will not be collected from the alley

For information on DPW, go to 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

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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; urban forestry; civil engineering and capital improvement projects along with the Department of Transportation (DOT). DPW delivers essential services that keep the city clean, safe, and healthy. The DOT plans, builds and maintains the city’s transportation system to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility for all users. The department is responsible for traffic operations, street signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, bike lanes, and transportation programs that support economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Guided by the city’s Vision Zero commitment, the DOT works to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven policies, street design, and community partnerships. In addition, the DOT issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station and the RVA Bike Share Program. Report service requests to RVA311.com or call 3-1-1

Posted March 19, 2026

WHO: City of Richmond Department of Public Works (https://twitter.com/DPW_RichmondVA)  

WHAT: Street Closure 

WHEN: Starting March 20 at 6 a.m. and ending Tuesday, March 24 at 6 a.m. 

WHERE: Brook Road between Chamberlayne Parkway and Webster Street 

BACKGROUND: The area will be closed (to thru traffic) to allow CSX to work on the railroad crossing. Please follow the detour signs.

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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; urban forestry; civil engineering and capital improvement projects along with the Department of Transportation (DOT). DPW delivers essential services that keep the city clean, safe, and healthy. The DOT plans, builds and maintains the city’s transportation system to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility for all users. The department is responsible for traffic operations, street signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, bike lanes, and transportation programs that support economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Guided by the city’s Vision Zero commitment, the DOT works to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven policies, street design, and community partnerships. In addition, the DOT issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station and the RVA Bike Share Program. Report service requests to RVA311.com or call 3-1-1

Posted March 19, 2026

WHO: City of Richmond Department of Public Works (https://twitter.com/DPW_RichmondVA)  

WHAT: Street Closure 

WHEN: Starting March 20 at 4 a.m. and ending Tuesday, March 24 at 5 a.m. 

WHERE: Hermitage Road between Leigh and Ownby Lane

BACKGROUND: The area will be closed to allow CSX to work on the railroad crossing.

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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; urban forestry;
civil engineering and capital improvement projects along with the Department of Transportation (DOT). DPW delivers essential services that keep the city clean,
safe, and healthy. The DOT plans, builds and maintains the city’transportation system to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility for all
users. The department is responsible for traffic operations, street signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, bike lanes, and transportation programs
that support economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Guided by the city’s Vision Zero commitment, the DOT works to eliminate
traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven policies, street design, and community partnerships. In addition, the DOT issues permits
for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station and the RVA Bike Share Program. Report service requests to RVA311.com or call 3-1-1.

Posted 3-19-26

RICHMOND, Va. — Following the tragic pedestrian deaths that have occurred since December 2025, the City of Richmond and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the Commonwealth’s Highway Safety Office, are taking action with a high-visibility, citywide pedestrian safety campaign urging everyone to “See and Be Seen.”

The multi-platform campaign will run on television, radio, digital platforms, and billboards across the city. Its message is simple, but lifesaving: drivers must slow down and look for people walking, biking, and rolling. The campaign also shares practical tips to help pedestrians in Richmond stay safe, visible, and alert.

“This is a moment for action,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “We are combining education, enforcement, and engineering improvements to protect lives and make our streets safer for everyone. The safety of our neighbors and friends has to be a priority, and we need to do our part, especially when behind the wheel.”

“Seeing and being seen isn’t just a slogan, it’s a lifesaving commitment,” said DMV Commissioner Dr. Gerald F. Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “When we look out for one another, we prevent crashes, protect families, and build a safer Richmond.”

In addition to the public awareness push, the City has fast-tracked targeted infrastructure upgrades. At 10th Street and Marshall Street, Richmond’s Traffic Signal Shop installed a pilot of new audible pedestrian beacons that provide clear crossing messages and destination guidance for individuals with limited sight. From concept to activation, the project was completed in just 40 days, a testament to the City’s urgency and commitment. If successful, the technology could expand to other high pedestrian traffic areas, prioritizing Richmond’s high-injury network.

The campaign reinforces simple but powerful safety actions:

For Drivers:

• Slow down — especially near crosswalks, schools, parks, and downtown corridors.
• Stop for pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Look left, right, and left again before turning.
• Eliminate distractions — put the phone away and focus on the road.
• Yield and be patient — a few seconds can save a life.
• Never drive impaired — choose a sober ride every time.
• Take driving seriously — don't forget that driving is a huge responsibility, give it your full attention.

For Pedestrians:

• Use marked crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
• Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.
• Stay alert — avoid walking while distracted by your phone or headphones.
• Be visible at night by wearing bright or reflective clothing.
• Take advantage of pedestrian signals and audible cues at intersections.

The Virginia DMV Highway Safety Office is supporting City initiatives through public education efforts and strategic messaging designed to change behavior and reinforce safe habits behind the wheel and out on the street.

For more information about pedestrian safety resources, visit the City of Richmond’s Vision Zero webpage.