The City of Richmond’s Office of Sustainability is seeking community feedback on a proposed project to convert the former East Richmond Road Landfill at 3800 East Richmond Road into a solar array and pollinator meadow. The initiative, in partnership with Ameresco, Inc., aims to produce renewable energy and includes funding for a Community Benefits Agreement. This agreement will allocate up to $500,000 toward local sustainability and resilience projects chosen by the community before the solar project becomes operational.
Residents are encouraged to participate in shaping which community benefits will be implemented. Potential projects include pollinator gardens, electric vehicle charging stations, youth programming, or public art installations. According to the city, “Community input will help determine which Community Benefits will be implemented – through projects such as pollinator gardens, EV charging stations, youth programming, or public art – ensuring the development benefits East End residents directly.”
A series of engagement sessions are scheduled at various locations:
– Wednesday Nov. 12 at Powhatan Community Center from 6:30pm to 8pm
– Monday Nov. 17 at Ashley Oaks from 6:30pm to 8pm
– Wednesday Nov. 19 at Franklin Military Academy from 6:30pm to 8pm
– Wednesday Dec. 3 at Powhatan Community Center from 6:30pm to 8pm (Final Report-Out)
For those unable to attend in person, an online survey is available for submitting feedback and ideas regarding the project.
Michael Smart, Sustainability Engagement Manager for the City of Richmond’s Office of Sustainability, can be contacted for more information at michael.smart@rva.gov.
