Hello friends and neighbors,

Last week’s general meeting was well-attended, and we covered a wide range of important matters. I’ll do my best to summarize and point us to the proper resources.

Park Improvements and Park & Rec Updates

We received a few updates regarding the bathhouse structure and construction.

• Demo is slated to begin sometime around February or March.

• Note: The park gate may remain open or unchained during the construction period.

• Splashpad and Bathroom will likely undergo concurrent construction.

• There will likely be limitations for park programming and access near the construction site. north 

• You will notice fencing going up soon for the duration of construction. That area, called the limit of disturbance, will be for park safety.

• We will request a map of the construction for park community’s awareness.

Additionally, we discussed other park improvements, namely the skate park, basketball courts, and accessible walkways throughout the park that have long been a concern. We will be looking into establishing a proper community process to prioritize what we can effectively do. The desired outcomes of this will be based on feasibility, cost, and community input.

We are aware and appreciate that ample community input has been gathered in the past on these matters. Many of the circumstances since then have changed and precluded any meaningful progress on these projects. Our primary factor right now might be cost. There is roughly $800k remaining that could be allocated to another project after the bathhouse and splash pad construction.

Please be on the lookout for updates and share your thoughts.

Upcoming Events and Important Dates

• We started discussions for potentially hosting the Buy Nothing Community Event and Giveaway. There is plenty of interest.

• Tiny Porch Concerts will start again in June. If you are interested in helping with planning or participating, follow the LINK.

• Be on the lookout for other events and opportunities over the next few months.

• Richmond’s Code Refresh to update the city’s zoning ordinance is underway.

  • Zoning Advisory Council Meeting: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 from 4-6:30pm

    • City Hall, 5th Floor Conference Room | 900 E. Broad St.

    • AGENDA

Would you like to get involved and promote safety in the neighborhood?

There are opportunities to get involved!

• Join the Semmes Avenue Safety Committee via Woodland Heights Civic Association

• Fill out LQC Survey 1 and Survey 2 

• Attend 5th District Town Halls

• Apply to attend this year’s Bike Walk RVA Academy

Please reach out with any comments, concerns, or questions.

Your Neighbor,

Carl Joseph

FoFP Board Chair