Nearly eight years in the making, Venture Richmond’s Brown’s Island Improvement Plan is realer than ever, with renderings and outlines showing us precisely what’s in store for this eventful, riverfront destination.
How do the plans compare to what locals asked for? We revisited an article from last year in which we asked our readers to brainstorm ideas for the $30 million project. From dreams to reality, let’s see what’s coming true.
Public infrastructure
Reader suggestions:
- Common queries included requests for water fountains, benches, and parking.
Reality:
- Long-awaited water fountains are joining the scene, along with a multitude of new seating options, especially around the canal and riverfront areas.
- As far as we’re aware, project proposals do not include new parking developments.
Reader suggestion:
- “I think it should have a few water features, maybe like a little water park play area for kids — for hot summer days. Plus, adults could also cool off.” – @kiwi_chikie
Reality:
- Interactive water elements will include a splash pad and a miniature waterfall-like feature, located along a new seating area.
Reader suggestion:
- “Permanent restrooms, a small playground near the Tredegar end of the island, and a permanent stage area.” – Judith M.
Reality:
- Permanent restrooms are a hard-earned, celebration-worthy reality. Restroom buildings will be installed on the east and west ends of the island, one featuring six single-use restrooms, including one ADA-accessible stall.
- While there won’t be a conventional, dedicated “playground,” special play elements include trellis swings, an embankment slide, a tree-log scramble, and the previously-mentioned splash pad.
- Current project plans do not include a permanent stage.
Flora and fauna
Reader suggestions:
- “Maybe a flowering garden with native pollinators, benches, and covered walkways — a lush, quiet spot.” – @hollandwilliamsart
- “Flowers on the island in general would be nice. Even if it’s wildflowers. We have green space in RVA, but not so many flowering spaces.” – @desi9ner
Reality:
- Environmental priorities include the removal of invasive species and the planting of 200 native trees + 60,000 plants.
- Select buildings will feature vegetated roofs.
Community activity
Reader suggestion:
- “Bring back the bicycle path!!!” – @____e__r____
Reality:
- Proposals don’t specify a particular bicycle route, but newly paved pathways should result in less bumpy rides. Bike-friendly features also include an existing bike rack and a new bike repair station.
Reader suggestion:
- “Community garden or an outdoor gym.” – @mavi_taylor
Reality:
- Current project plans do not include a dedicated community garden or an outdoor gym.
Reader suggestions:
- “Restaurants and cafes so people can hang out.” – Phil S.
- “A coffee shop/ice cream shop/bar where you can sit and people watch and enjoy the view.” – @nelemarston
Reality:
- There are currently no permanent restaurant additions in the works; however, a new plaza under Manchester Bridge aims to become a pop-up hub for food trucks.
Reader suggestions:
- You all got creative with suggestions for zip lines, a Ferris wheel, and a projection screen.
Reality:
- Alas, these elements are not on the agenda, but one can still dream.
More project details
To see more details and explore the full project scope, take a look at Venture Richmond’s unanimously approved project plans.
