Sharon Ebert News Today

Richmond City Council made a big swing in determining the future of the city, with members unanimously approving a new redevelopment project in the Diamond District during a special meeting last Wednesday afternoon. Outside of Council Chambers, the reaction was more mixed.

A special meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m. tomorrow on the new approach to financing the stadium and infrastructure improvements for the development's first phase. Citizens will have a chance to weigh in.

The City of Hampton announced Sledge’s rehire Wednesday, the same day BizSense reported his planned departure after five years as Richmond's economic development director.

Multiple sources with knowledge of his plans confirmed that Leonard Sledge, the department's director for five years, had said he will be stepping down in June.

Administrators’ pitch to change the city’s approach to financing its massive Diamond District development appeared to land receptively with Richmond City Council on Monday, despite increased risk.

The 150-page document in the works since 2020 aims to balance development and preservation interests as a supplement to the citywide Richmond 300 plan.

Maritza Pechin, whose various roles have included guiding the Diamond District project, is departing City Hall this Friday to take a job with the USDOT’s Build America Bureau.

Frustrated advocates and unhoused residents vocalized concerns about Richmond's homeless shelters as city officials gave their final report on last season's inclement weather shelters.

Sixty shelter beds are expected to open on about Nov. 15. Ninety more are planned to be available in early 2023.

Please join us on Wednesday, March 23 for The Future of Shockoe Bottom, presented by ThompsonMcMullan. This will be held as a virtual event.