Residents are encouraged to review tornado safety guidance   

Richmond, VA — The City of Richmond is actively monitoring forecasted severe weather expected to impact the region Monday, which may include strong storms and the potential for tornadoes. To coordinate preparedness and response efforts, the City will activate its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) beginning Monday morning.  

The EOC will serve a crucial role as a centralized hub for city agencies to collaborate. The center will facilitate the coordination of resources, effective communication, and the implementation of action plans aimed at promptly addressing any challenges that may arise. 

All press requests for information and interviews relating to the EOC activation should be directed to [email protected] . 

Tornado Safety Tips  

Residents are encouraged to review tornado safety guidance and be prepared if severe weather develops. 

• Before the storm: Identify a safe shelter location, such as a basement or interior room on the lowest floor away from windows and stay informed by monitoring weather alerts.
• During the storm: Move immediately to your safe location if a warning is issued and protect your head and neck.
• After the storm: Avoid downed power lines and damaged structures as well as follow guidance from local officials. 

Inclement Weather Shelters   

To protect and shelter Richmond’s most vulnerable residents, the Salvation Army Inclement Weather Shelter, located at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue and operated by the Salvation Army, will be open tonight through Tuesday, March 17.  

Additionally, the Main Library, located at 101 E Franklin Street, will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday and can be used as a tornado and severe weather shelter.   

Richmond Ready Alerts   

Residents are encouraged to sign up for Richmond Ready Alerts to receive critical emergency and weather alerts from the City of Richmond. Residents can text ‘RVAREADY’ to 888-777 to receive a sign-up link or visit rva.gov/richmondreadyalerts to learn more. 

Residents should also visit go.rva.gov/severe-weather and the City of Richmond’s social media channels for updates on City operations. For weather updates, please monitor reliable sources of information such as the National Weather Service. 

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La Ciudad de Richmond monitorea activamente el clima severo  

Se recomienda a los residentes revisar los consejos de preparación ante tornados  

Richmond, VA — La Ciudad de Richmond está monitoreando activamente el clima severo pronosticado para la región el día lunes, el cual podría incluir tormentas severas y la posibilidad de tornados. Para coordinar los esfuerzos de preparación y respuesta, la Ciudad activará su Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia (EOC, por sus siglas en inglés) a partir del lunes por la mañana. 

El EOC desempeñará un papel fundamental como centro de coordinación para que las agencias municipales colaboren. El centro facilitará la coordinación de recursos, la comunicación efectiva y la implementación de planes de acción destinados a abordar de manera oportuna cualquier reto que pueda surgir. 

Todas las solicitudes de prensa relacionadas con información o entrevistas sobre la activación del EOC deben dirigirse a [email protected] . 

Consejos de Seguridad ante Tornados

Se recomienda a los residentes revisar los consejos o guía de preparación ante tornados y estar listos en caso de que se desarrolle clima severo. 

• Antes de la tormenta: Identifique un lugar seguro, como un sótano o una habitación interior en el nivel más bajo, lejos de las ventanas, y manténgase informado monitoreando las alertas meteorológicas.
• Durante la tormenta: Diríjase de inmediato a su lugar seguro si se emite una advertencia y proteja su cabeza y cuello.
• Después de la tormenta: Evite caminar cerca de las líneas eléctricas caídas y las estructuras dañadas, y siga las instrucciones de las autoridades locales. 

Refugios por Clima Inclemente

Para proteger y brindar refugio a los residentes más vulnerables de Richmond, el Refugio por Clima Inclemente operado por el Ejército de Salvación (Salvation Army en inglés), ubicado en el 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue, estará abierto desde esta noche hasta el martes 17 de marzo. 

Además, la Biblioteca Principal, ubicada en el 101 E. Franklin Street, estará abierta de 9:00 a. m. a 8:00 p. m. el lunes y podrá utilizarse como refugio durante tornados y clima severo. 

Alertas Richmond Ready  

Se recomienda a los habitantes a inscribirse en las alertas Richmond Ready para recibir avisos críticos de emergencia y condiciones meteorológicas por parte de la Ciudad de Richmond. Los residentes pueden enviar un mensaje de texto con la palabra ‘RVAREADY’ al 888‑777 para recibir un enlace de inscripción o visitar rva.gov/richmondreadyalerts para obtener más información. 

Los residentes también deben visitar go.rva.gov/severe-weather y los canales de redes sociales de la Ciudad de Richmond para obtener actualizaciones sobre las operaciones de la Ciudad. Para actualizaciones meteorológicas, por favor monitoree fuentes confiables de información. 

Posted March 13, 2026

Richmond, VA — The Richmond Department of Transportation (RDOT), in collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and VCU Health System, recently launched a pilot program installing audible beacon devices at the intersection of 10th and Marshall streets. This initiative aims to improve safe access for people walking of all ages and abilities when crossing busy city intersections.

The audible beacon devices attach directly to the existing pedestrian countdown signals. 

• WALK

•     When the "WALK" signal is active, the device announces that the walk phase is on, providing clear auditory guidance. 

• Don’t’ Walk 

•     During the flashing "DON'T WALK" hand symbol (clearance phase), it emits a repeated percussive sound to alert users that the crossing time is ending, and they should not begin crossing.

This pilot represents an early and tangible outcome of the ongoing Joint Pedestrian Safety Task Force, a collaborative effort between the City of Richmond, VCU, and VCU Health System. The Task Force works to identify and implement practical measures to reduce risks to people walking or rolling, particularly in high-traffic areas near downtown campuses and medical facilities.

"Ensuring safe and inclusive access for everyone in Richmond is a top priority," said RDOT Director Andy Boneau. "By adding these audible beacons, we're taking an important step toward making our streets more accessible for residents who need additional cues at crossings. This pilot at 10th and Marshall demonstrates our commitment to quick, cheap, evidence-based solutions through strong partnerships."

The pilot will be closely monitored and evaluated for effectiveness, user feedback, any technical issues, and overall impact on safer walking for all. Following a successful evaluation period, the City will seek additional resources to expand deployment of these audible devices to other high-volume crossing locations identified through the Task Force and Vision Zero efforts.

The City of Richmond continues to advance its Vision Zero commitment to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries through infrastructure improvements, education, enforcement, and growing community-based safety cultures. For more information on safer access initiatives or to provide feedback on the pilot, visit www.rva.gov or contact  DOT at RVA311.com or call  311.

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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. Operating budgets for both departments come from the general fund of the City of Richmond. For more information about services, click here or call 3-1-1

Posted March 13, 2026

The Central Virginia Transportation Authority (CVTA) recently awarded nearly $148 million in regional infrastructure investments over the next six years bringing significant improvements to Richmond’s road, bridges, transit, and pedestrian networks. 

 Several notable Richmond projects included in this funding are:  

• Arthur Ashe Boulevard Bridge Replacement: This funding provides additional resources ($13M) to existing funding (Federal RAISE Program, GO Bond, and CSX) to replace this critical link between Scott’s Addition and the Diamond District over ACCA Yard for $48M. The existing Arthur Ashe Boulevard bridge over CSX tracks is over 75 years old and the State of Good Repair program lists the existing bridge as in “Poor” condition. The bridge provides a vital connection between regional transportation systems including I-95 and I-64 and urban and commercial centers in the City of Richmond. The proposed project is for the design and construction of the bridge replacement, which will be raised to meet standard vertical clearances and span two existing CSX railway lines and two proposed tracks (one for high-speed passenger rail and the other for a freight line). This bridge highlight includes space for people who walk, roll, and bike.
• Shockoe Valley Streets Improvements: This funding provides additional resources ($14M) for existing funding (Smart Scale Program, Revenue Sharing Program, GO Bond) to construct $54M multimodal improvements in Shockoe Valley. This project includes converting Oliver Hill Way and 18th Street from one-way streets to two-way streets to improve connectivity. Roundabouts at the intersections of Oliver Hill Way and Venable Street, 18th Street and Venable Street, Mosby Street and Venable Street, and Mosby Street/East Leigh Street/O Street will improve safe access for all users regardless of age or ability or mode by reducing the number of intersection conflict points and potential for right-angle and head-on crashes, and promoting safer driver speeds. The project also provides turn lanes on Broad Street at the Oliver Hill Way intersection. Safe access for people who walk, roll, and bike will be provided with upgraded bicycle and pedestrian connections throughout the project. The project also adds complete streetscape enhancements including lighting and landscaping.
• Belt Boulevard Transit Streetscape: This funding provides additional resources ($2M) to existing funding (Smart Scale Program) to $33M construct multimodal improvements on Belt Boulevard. This project will provide two new bus rapid transit (BRT) dedicated transit-only lanes along E. Belt Boulevard (Route 161) between Midlothian Turnpike and Hull Street Road. The proposed BRT lanes will serve the proposed GRTC Pulse North-South Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route, an approximately 24-mile planned BRT system running from Magnolia Ridge Drive on US Route 1 in Henrico County, continuing through Downtown Richmond, crossing the Manchester Bridge, and terminating at Walmart Way on US Route 60 in Chesterfield County. This project also enhances the Belt Boulevard streetscape along the BRT route by providing a raised median and eliminating redundant entrances for improved access management and multimodal operations, and by providing a 10’ shared use path with 4’ buffer along the south side of the corridor and a 5’ sidewalk with 4’ buffer along the north side of the corridor for improved bike/ped safety and connectivity to the BRT route. Additionally, the project will install a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) with ADA accessible ramps, and bike, pedestrian, and transit access improvements at eight transit stops. 

The City of Richmond also supported the following regional projects that were selected: 

• Pulse BRT Western Expansion $15M
• Virginia Passenger Rail Authority Layover Facility $15M
• Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) Transit Hub $10M
• Fall Line Trail – Longdale Road Phase $6M 

“Together, with our regional partners, we are delivering projects that will serve Richmonders for generations. These improvements support stronger communities, better access to jobs and services, and a multimodal transportation system that reflects our shared priorities. I deeply appreciate the regional partnership that got us all to this point, and am so excited for the progress ahead,” said Mayor Danny Avula. 

“These investments from CVTA demonstrate the power of regional collaboration to deliver transformative transportation improvements right here in Richmond and the region,” said Director of Transportation, Andy Boenau. “By prioritizing projects that enhance safe multimodal access and local economic vitality, we're creating a city for Richmond residents, visitors, and businesses to thrive.” 

CVTA funds, generated from dedicated local sales/use taxes and wholesale fuel taxes, enable member jurisdictions like Richmond to address critical needs that improve quality of life across the nine-jurisdiction region. 

The City of Richmond remains committed to Vision Zero and Complete Streets to provide safe access to affordable housing, jobs, and services. Working closely with CVTA, PlanRVA, GRTC, and its member partners is critical to the successful implementation of these important priorities.  

For more information on CVTA and regional projects, visit cvtava.org. Updates on City-specific initiatives are available at rva.gov/public-works.

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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. Operating budgets for both departments come from the general fund of the City of Richmond. For more information about services, click here or call 3-1-1

The Richmond Office of Elections will conduct Logic & Accuracy (L&A) testing of voting equipment in preparation for the upcoming election.

Logic & Accuracy testing is a public process used to verify that voting equipment is properly programmed and accurately records and tabulates votes as expected before ballots are cast.

Testing Details

This testing is part of the Office’s ongoing efforts to help ensure the accuracy, transparency, and integrity of the election process.

Proposed $3.4 billion budget invests in City workforce, housing affordability, Richmond Public Schools, and neighborhood economic growth     

Richmond, VA — Today, Mayor Danny Avula presented his proposed Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget to the public and Richmond City Council, outlining investments across the four priority pillars of his Mayoral Action Plan: A Thriving City Hall, Thriving Neighborhoods, Thriving Families, and Thriving Economies.

The proposed budget prioritizes strengthening City operations, expanding housing affordability, supporting Richmond Public Schools and families, and creating economic opportunity across the city while maintaining fiscal responsibility during a more constrained financial environment.

“Richmond’s future depends on a city government that works — one that delivers results for residents, strengthens neighborhoods, supports families, and creates real opportunity,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “This budget continues the work we began over the past year: building a high-performing City Hall while investing in the people, places, and partnerships that make Richmond a thriving city.”

Strengthening City Hall and Investing in the Workforce

Under Pillar One: A Thriving City Hall, the FY27 budget includes $263.5 million in citywide investments related to collective bargaining, an increase of $22.1 million over FY26, ensuring Richmond honors its commitments to employees while strengthening the workforce that delivers essential services residents deserve.

Key investments include compensation increases for sworn police and fire personnel, salary adjustments for union-represented employees, and equivalent increases for non-union employees performing similar work.

Advancing Thriving Neighborhoods

The proposed budget continues major investments in housing affordability, anti-displacement strategies, and neighborhood safety under Pillar Two: Thriving Neighborhoods.

More than $40 million is proposed to support affordable housing production, housing stability, and public safety improvements, including:

• $11.7 million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund 
• $1.8 million in Affordable Housing Performance Grants 
• $1.6 million to advance the next phase of Creighton Court redevelopment 
• $450,000 to support the transformation of Gilpin Court 
• $10.1 million in anti-displacement programs such as eviction diversion, Right to Counsel services, and tax relief for older adults and residents with disabilities 
• $15.6 million for renovation and safety improvements to the John Marshall Courthouse  

These investments help ensure more homes for more people and more ways for residents to stay in the neighborhoods they love.

Supporting Thriving Families and Richmond Public Schools

Under Pillar Three: Thriving Families, the proposed budget includes $257 million for Richmond Public Schools, almost a quarter of the general fund, and an $8.2 million increase over FY26. The budget also proposes $9.3 million to address immediate capital maintenance needs for critical infrastructure repairs and facility upgrades maintain safe and functional learning environments.

The budget also proposes nearly $3 million in additional investments supporting children and families, including funding for childcare assistance, after-school programming, youth development initiatives, and school-based supports that connect students and families to critical services. To continue advancing gun violence prevention efforts, Mayor Avula’s budget proposes $644,000 to support immediate crisis intervention and trauma-informed services, plus additional support for the We Matter RVA Gun Violence Prevention Initiative.

Strengthening Richmond’s Economy

Through Pillar Four: Thriving Economies, the FY27 proposed budget includes more than $5 million in investments to support small businesses, neighborhood commercial districts, and economic opportunity.

Key proposals include:

• $4.9 million for Economic Performance Grants to support job-creating development projects
• $250,000 for commercial façade improvement grants for neighborhood businesses
• $125,000 to support the establishment of a Carytown Business Improvement District 

These investments aim to strengthen the small businesses, artists, entrepreneurs, and neighborhood corridors that power Richmond’s economy.

Building the Next Chapter for Richmond

Mayor Avula emphasized that the FY27 budget reflects both progress and long-term vision as Richmond approaches the nation’s 250th anniversary.

“The choices we make today shape the next chapter of Richmond’s story,” Avula said. “This budget continues the work of building a city where government works well, neighborhoods thrive, families are supported, and opportunity reaches every corner of our community.”

Mayor Avula’s proposed FY27 budget will now move to Richmond City Council for review and consideration.

• Read the full text of Mayor Avula’s Budget Introduction speech
• Budget in Brief: (A Brief) Roadmap to a Thriving Richmond
• 2027 Budget: Roadmap to a Thriving Richmond
• For more information about the FY27 budget process, visit FY27 Budget Season.