Mayor Danny Avula announced on May 23 the launch of a new online platform for handling Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in Richmond, Virginia. The system is designed to manage the entire FOIA request process, from submission to record collection, redaction, review, and payment if needed.
The city says the new platform will increase transparency, save staff time, and improve the experience for those making requests. While traditional methods such as in-person or phone submissions remain available, officials say this digital option provides greater convenience. Residents and media can access the platform at rva.gov/foia. Requests related to records owned by the Richmond Police Department should continue to be sent directly to rpd.foia@rva.gov.
“The City’s approach to FOIA has improved dramatically over the last 18 months. Sharing public information promptly with the media and our residents is a priority that I have made clear throughout the administration. We’ve increased training across the organization, hired a new FOIA manager, and I’ve communicated repeatedly to leadership in my cabinet meetings that FOIA is not only just a legal requirement but a responsibility we need to take seriously. This work takes time and careful consideration to manage properly and now we have the serious technology tools to support that work,” said Mayor Danny Avula.
Ross Catrow, Director of the Office of Strategic Communications, said: “This is so exciting! I’ve been on the pilot for the new platform over the last few weeks, and it’s going to be a game-changer for the way the City handles FOIA. Shout-out to our FOIA Manager, who led the City to today’s launch. I’m grateful and proud of her work!”
The city also plans to fully launch its FOIA Library in coming weeks before a July 1 deadline set by ORD. 2025-240 introduced by Mayor Avula last year. The library will make frequently requested records publicly accessible free of charge; members of public can preview it at go.rva.gov/foialibrary.
Recent data shows that over several months extensions on requests have decreased while most are completed on time each month.
