May Update With Third District Councilwoman Ann-Frances Lambert

by Brigette Kelly 05.2022

Redistricting

The city’s population over the past decade increased by 11%, from 204,000 to 226,600, according to last year’s census data. Each district needs 25,000 residents to make them equal. Based on the national headcount, the city needs to adjust four of its nine council districts: the 2nd, 3rd, 6th and 7th.

City officials initially agreed only three districts deviated from the ideal population size, but later found that the 7th District exceeded the needed population due to residents currently incarcerated. 

On May 26 the adopted redistricting plan will take effect. 

Diamond Development

The city announced on March 23 that six development teams have been chosen to provide more information on their visions for the Diamond District. After the request for additional information is answered, the Evaluation Panel will issue a Request for Offers to the most qualified teams.

Brook and Marshall Placemaking Project

The intersection of Brook Road and West Marshall Street in the Arts District and Jackson Ward now features a new pedestrian place, an intersection mural, a parklet, shade umbrellas and bike racks. 

Upcoming FY ‘23 Budget

Mayor Levar Stoney released his budget for next year on March 4. 

Councilwoman Lambert submitted two amendments to the operating budget. One calls for a study that would look at options for a mixed-use development. This includes a parking structure in the area around the North Avenue Branch Library. 

Councilwoman Lambert also requested a Chamberbrook small area plan that includes assessing infrastructure, parking, traffic control, zoning, land use, public safety and economic vitality in the area. 

Gun Violence

Last year, Councilwoman Lambert secured $1.5 million from ARP funds that will go to gun violence prevention .

$500,000 will be used for a gun buyback program to help take illegal guns off of the streets. Last year the Richmond Police Department recovered 947 guns. 

VDOT Projects

The Virginia Department of Transportation is rehabilitating to I-64 on-ramp bridge over I-95 from Laburnum Avenue.

The project includes joint replacement, deck repair, structural steel repairs, bearing rehabilitation, concrete substructure surface repairs, concrete color coating on the bridge rail and painting ends.