Posted Feb. 14, 2025

The City of Richmond is sharing the preliminary after-action report from the outside firm hired to conduct an independent investigation of the circumstances that led to water service disruption in early January. 

The findings in the preliminary after-action report produced by HNTB Corporation, an engineering and infrastructure development firm with more than 100 years of experience, affirm that a power outage resulting from a winter storm started a chain reaction that caused flooding at the water treatment plant, damaging equipment and hampering efforts to restore water service. 

The HNTB report summarizes the sequence of events following that early morning power outage. It also lays out a series of initial recommendations that serve as a blueprint for process enhancements and protocol changes to strengthen operations at the City’s water treatment plant. 

“The release of the summary findings from HNTB provide an overview of the events of January 6, 2025 at the City’s water treatment plant, including the timing of the power outage that led to flooding that damaged critical plant equipment and computer systems, the staff response, and the service restoration effort,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “Since water service was restored, the City has made a series of changes to plant operations and equipment. That includes millions of dollars in investments towards the recovery work, much of which has been spent on equipment upgrades and repairs — including new backup power systems. We have also made meaningful changes to plant procedures, consistent with several HNTB recommendations, as part of continuing efforts to make water treatment plant operations more resilient.” 

Added Department of Public Utilities (DPU) Interim Director Scott Morris, DBA: “Many of the water plant process improvement recommendations in the HNTB report align with steps that have already been taken to more effectively deploy staff, prepare them for emergency response situations, strengthen system redundancy, and enhance preparedness protocols through training and practice exercises. That includes readiness preparation for inclement weather events, as well as regular checks of facility equipment, fuel, chemicals, and systems to avert the potential for future impact on operational continuity and service delivery.” 

The release of HNTB’s preliminary findings is part of the City’s continuing commitment to better understand the events of January 6, 2025 and share that information with the public.  

A final report from HNTB is forthcoming. 

Download the preliminary after-action report: https://rva.gov/media/41406

Posted Feb. 11, 2025

Ahead of severe weather conditions, all City of Richmond offices will close at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 11 and will reopen on a delayed schedule at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 12.

Residents should visit rva.gov and follow 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. 

Inclement Weather Shelters

To protect and shelter Richmond's most vulnerable residents, the City's Inclement Weather Shelter, located at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue and operated by the Salvation Army, will continue operations based on the weather.

Additionally, a temporary inclement weather overflow shelter can be activated during this inclement weather event and will continue to operate as needed:   

• Marshall Plaza, 900 E. Marshall Street (single adult men and women/families)   

This location will serve in an overflow capacity only. Single adult men and women in need should prioritize sheltering at the Inclement Weather Shelter located at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue. Meals will be provided at all sites.

Richmond Ready Alerts

Residents are encouraged to sign up for the new Richmond Ready Alerts system that can send information to users via text, e-mail, phone, or through an app about severe weather, fires, floods, missing persons, power outages, and other crucial public safety updates. Learn more: rva.gov/richmondreadyalerts. 

Posted on Feb. 5, 2025

The City of Richmond celebrates Black History Month and the rich contributions of Black American Richmonders. Black History Month, born out of Negro History Week and founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, is a time to commemorate and celebrate the contributions Black Americans have made to shaping of our nation. The City recognize and celebrate the contributions of Richmond leaders past and present like former Richmond Mayor and State Senator Henry L. Marsh; former Governor and Richmond Mayor L. Douglas Wilder; former State Senator Dr. William Ferguson "Fergie" Reid; the Richmond 34; Dorothy Height; Vice Admiral Samuel Lee Gravely, Jr.; Bill "Bojangles" Robinson; John Mitchell, Jr.; Oliver Hill; Arthur Ash; and Maggie Lena Walker.

Throughout the month of February, organizations including the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Virginia Museum of History and Culture, Richmond Public Library, Library of Virginia, Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commonwealth University, and The Valentine Museum among others, are hosting exhibits, educational programs, and events focused on the extraordinary history and achievements of Black Americans in our City and nation. Richmonders are encouraged to take advantage of this programming to deepen their understanding of the contributions of Black Americans.

"Black American Richmonders have played an undeniable role in shaping American history and culture. From the efforts of the Richmond 34 to the legacy of Maggie Lena Walker, Black Richmonders have been and remain at the forefront of the culture and of change. Today, Black leaders across our City continue to carry the torch of their ancestors-upholding the stories and legacy of the past, building on the present, and looking with great aspiration towards the future," said, Traci J. Deshazor, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Human Services and Chief Equity Officer.

The City of Richmond is recognizing Black History Month in several ways this year. City Hall will be illuminated throughout the month both in recognition of Black History Month and to commemorate the anniversary of the Richmond 34 - when, in 1960, 34 Virginia Union University students staged a nonviolent sit-in at the segregated lunch counter in the Thalhimers department store downtown. Their efforts were a key event in the Civil Rights Movement and helped influence the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Additionally, throughout the month of February, the City of Richmond will be facilitating programming:

Food Truck Fridays

• Fridays; Feb. 7, 14, 21, and 28

• Richmonders are encouraged to join us midday every Friday in February in supporting Black-owned businesses. In particular, each Friday during the month of February, different food trucks will be featured outside of City Hall.

Wellness Wednesday

• Wednesday, Feb. 12

• Several area organizations will host informational tables in City Hall for Richmonders to connect with resources and services that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Membership Monday

• Monday, Feb. 24

• Several area organizations will host informational tables in City Hall for Richmonders to learn more about their programs and services and to explore potential membership.

Additional events

• Feb. 13, 5 - 8 p.m.; The City of Richmond will host a Black Love Expo: A Celebration of Familial Love, Arts, and Culture featuring food, music, and a series of discussions on history and culture, art and music, and love. The event will be hosted by Kelli Lemon and will take place at Main Street Station.

• The City of Richmond will partner with the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia - with support from Shockoe-area partners, Venture Richmond, and The Art Seen - to create Portals, "a community-based exhibition currently on display in Shockoe Bottom that features large-scale, historic photographs depicting African Americans from the early 1800s to the 1980s. More information can be found here.

• The Richmond Public Library is also hosting a series of events across several library branches. A comprehensive list can be found here.

Residents should visit visitblkrva.com to learn more about additional area programming and Black-owned area businesses they may consider supporting

"Black history is an indelible part of America's story. During Black History Month - particularly in this moment - I encourage everyone to explore the legacy of Black Americans in our country and learn from their examples of resounding resilience in the face of extreme challenges." said Mayor Danny Avula. "Throughout the month, I plan to visit local museums and participate in events across the City that acknowledge the beauty of the Black experience and the complexity of that history."

Looking forward, the City of Richmond is committed to upholding the stories of the enslaved Africans and their descendants who crossed through our waterways, many of whom may still reside in the City today. These stories will be featured prominently in the Shockoe Project.

The Shockoe Project will create a comprehensive, experiential destination that places Richmond at the center of the American story by recognizing the history of enslaved and free Africans and people of African descent. Anticipated components of The Shockoe Project include the Shockoe Institute, National Slavery Museum, Lumpkin's Slave Jail, Mary Lumpkin Event Lawn, The African Burial Ground, National Memorial, as well as The Winfree Cottage, The Shockoe Hill African Burying Ground, and the Trail of the Enslaved. The project is currently in the final planning stages. Residents can learn more about this effort here.

Added Richmond City Council President Dr. Cynthia Newbille, "This Black History Month, we're proud to showcase Richmond's layered relationship with African Americans in Virginia and beyond. From the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site to the many significant sites being commemorated through The Shockoe Project - such as the Lumpkin's Slave Jail, the Trail of the Enslaved, and the Shockoe Bottom African Burial Ground - Richmond offers countless opportunities to explore and learn from its cultural landmarks. I invite everyone to find time to visit some of them this month."

Posted on Feb. 3, 2025

Richmond, VA – On January 8, in a ceremony held in the basement of the Main Branch of the Richmond Public Library, Senior Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Sabrina Joy-Hogg was sworn in as the City’s Interim Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). 

Joy-Hogg will serve as Interim CAO while the national search for a Chief Administrative Officer continues. That process is being led by the Robert Bobb Group (RBG), in collaboration with PoliHire, with a final candidate expected to be hired in the first half of 2025. Under Richmond’s governmental structure, the CAO reports to the Mayor and has responsibility for day-to-day operations in the City. 

“Effectively serving the citizens of Richmond requires deep collaboration across City Hall,” said Danny. “I appreciate City Council for confirming Sabrina Joy-Hogg as Interim CAO. Sabrina has extensive experience in local government leadership especially in the areas of administration, budget, and finance – areas she’s already had such a positive impact on here in Richmond. Having worked with her during the transition process, I am absolutely confident in her ability to serve as Interim CAO.” 

Prior to being confirmed as Interim CAO, Sabrina Joy-Hogg served as Senior DCAO for Administration and Finance for the City of Richmond. Her past experience includes roles with the U.S. Department of Treasury, Deputy City Manager for the City of Charlotte, NC, and Chief Deputy City Manager for the City of Norfolk, VA, among other positions. 

As part of the national CAO candidate search, a formal posting that includes a job description and information about the application process has been posted online. 

In conducting the national search, the Robert Bobb-Group – a minority-owned national consulting firm specializing in public and private sector consulting and advisory services – is focused on identifying qualified candidates whose vision and values are aligned with the needs of the City of Richmond. The executive search firm PoliHire, which specializes in identifying accomplished municipal and philanthropic leadership candidates, will support RBG during this process. 

About the Robert Bobb Group: The Robert Bobb Group, LLC is a minority-owned national consulting firm specializing in public and private sector consulting and advisory services. It offers solutions to government, military, private sector organizations, and educational institutions. Its excellence in strategic planning and knowledge of city government ensures searches return the best and the right candidate. 

About PoliHire: PoliHire is an executive search firm that partners with public-serving and mission-based organizations to understand their leadership needs and identify the highest-caliber candidates whose skill sets, demonstrated track record, and future aspirations are aligned with their clients’ commitment to service, excellence, and equity.

Posted on Feb 3, 2025

Richmond, VA – The City of Richmond is pleased to announce that residents, workers, and visitors will now be able to receive quick and reliable emergency notifications through the city’s new emergency alert system, Richmond Ready Alerts. This innovative emergency alert system, powered by Everbridge—an industry leader in critical event management—will provide prompt and dependable notifications during critical incidents and emergencies.

The new alert system, which will replace the city's previous alerting system CodeRed, will keep users informed about a wide range of events, including severe weather, fires, floods, missing persons, power outages, and other crucial public safety updates. Users will have the flexibility to receive these alerts through their preferred channels, including text messages, emails, landline phones, or via the Everbridge app.

“In emergencies, having timely information can make all the difference, and Richmond Ready Alerts guarantees that users get real-time updates when they matter most,” Stephen Willoughby, Director of Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response said in a statement. “We strongly encourage anyone who lives, works, or frequently visits Richmond to sign up for alerts to stay connected during critical times.”

Residents can opt-in for Richmond Ready Alerts by texting RVAREADY to 888-777 or by visiting rva.gov/richmondreadyalerts.

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La Ciudad de Richmond lanza su nuevo sistema de alertas de emergencia

Richmond, Virginia – La ciudad de Richmond se complace en anunciar que sus habitantes, trabajadores y visitantes ahora podrán recibir notificaciones de emergencia rápidas y confiables a través del nuevo sistema de alertas de emergencia de la ciudad, Richmond Ready Alerts. Este innovador sistema de alertas de emergencia, impulsado por Everbridge, líder de la industria en la gestión de eventos críticos, proporcionará notificaciones rápidas y confiables durante incidentes críticos y emergencias.

El nuevo sistema de alertas, que reemplazará a CodeRed, el anterior sistema de alertas de la ciudad,  mantendrá a los usuarios informados sobre una amplia gama de eventos, incluyendo mal tiempo, incendios, inundaciones, personas desaparecidas, cortes de energía y otras actualizaciones cruciales de seguridad pública. Los usuarios tendrán la flexibilidad de recibir estas alertas a través de sus medios de comunicación preferidos, incluyendo mensajes de texto, correos electrónicos, teléfonos fijos o a través de la aplicación Everbridge.

"Durante una emergencia, tener información oportuna puede marcar la diferencia, y Richmond Ready Alerts garantiza que los usuarios obtengan actualizaciones en tiempo real cuando más se necesitan", dijo Stephen Willoughby, Director de Comunicaciones, Preparación y Respuesta ante Emergencias en un comunicado. "Recomendamos encarecidamente a cualquier persona que viva, trabaje o visite Richmond con frecuencia, que se inscriba para recibir alertas y mantenerse conectada durante momentos críticos", añadió.

Los richmondeses pueden inscribirse para recibir las alertas de Richmond Ready enviando el mensaje RVAREADY al 888-777 o visitando la página rva.gov/richmondreadyalerts.