Increased walkability is on the agenda for the redesign. | Graphic via City of Richmond
The future of the Mayo Bridge is coming into focus. Here’s the latest developments:
A series of renderings and graphics recently released by the city show the latest redesign with an emphasis on walkability, per Richmond Biz Sense. The plan? To turn the current four lanes of car traffic into two lanes (one in each direction) and include a bike lane on either side and pedestrian sidewalks outside those lanes.
Officials say the decision to increase walkability came after speaking to members of the public and local stakeholders before this latest iteration, including the Manchester Alliance and Shockoe Partnership.
While leaders initially wanted only to replace the bridge’s surface, the Virginia Department of Transportation later discovered the need to replace the structure’s piers too. This increased the estimated cost from ~$90 million to ~$195 million.
Time is running out to make a final decision. VDOT believes the current 112-year-old bridge has roughly a decade before structural failure becomes a significant risk by 2035.
Asked
Asked
Do you like the latest Mayo Bridge redesign?
A. Yes, the walk and bike lanes are an awesome idea. B. I think so, but I’m not 100% convinced. C. No, the traffic will get worse. D. If it makes it safer, I’m fine with it.
Wednesday, Feb. 12 Midweek Movie Matinee: “Soul” | 2-5 p.m. | West End Library | Free | Catch the beloved 2020 flick featuring a middle school band teacher’s quest for jazz excellence.
Thursday, Feb. 13 “Rich Soil” Sculpture Exhibition | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden | $10+ | Celebrate Valentine’s Day early with a stroll through the exhibit where dozens of life-size sculptures await within the beautiful gardens.
Friday, Feb. 14 Cupid’s Revenge: A Murder Mystery Event | 7-10 p.m. | 6000 Dominion Club Dr., Glen Allen | $85+ | Treat your special someone to a love-themed murder mystery event, food and drink included.
Saturday, Feb. 15 Anthony Rodia | 6:30 p.m., 9 p.m. | Funny Bone Comedy Club | $30+ | Laugh along as Rodia’s brand of Italian American New Yorker comedy hits the River City stage.
Sunday, Feb. 16 Glassblowing for Beginners | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | The Glass Ceiling | $250 | Learn the ropes and get your first taste of glassblowing at this hands-on guided class.
Calling fans of The Fishin’ Pig. The popular Virginia-based restaurant chain just opened its first Richmond area location. The new spot in Glen Allen is the company’s fourth, where its Southern-style Memphis barbecue eats will be served up. (Richmond Times-Dispatch)
Weather
We want to see your snowy snaps. Richmond always looks gorgeous, but we think it’s even more beautiful under a blanket of snow. Send them in and we could share them in a future newsletter.
Watch
Yesterday, we told you about Highland Springs’ Mekhi Becton, who just won the Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles. Since then, the NFL gave him a shoutout on Instagram, capturing the moment when he let the emotions out.
Announced
“One Sweet Day” during the upcoming summer, Boyz II Men will play at the Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront. Richmond’s soon-to-open music venue will host the iconic group on Thursday, June 19. Tickets go on sale today.
Holiday
Looking for Valentine’s Day plans? Lucky for you, we rounded up 25+ ideas to woo your boo in Richmond. Whether you’re after a bite to eat, an adventurous time, or something competitive, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Try This
With World Hippo Day coming up this Saturday, Feb. 15, it’s the perfect opportunity to hit up Metro Richmond Zoo and get a glance of the queen herself. Poppy the baby pygmy hippo made national headlines after her recent birth, and the zoo offers behind-the-scenes encounters with her.
Festival
Anyone for a beer? Stone Brewing’s annual Richmond Beer Fest returns this Saturday, Feb. 15. Head down from 12 to 4 p.m. to sample a local sips from 15+ breweries. The $45 ticket comes with unlimited tastings.
Sports
Beloved Flying Squirrels mascot Nutzy turned 15 years old yesterday. With only 51 days until baseball season returns to the River City, it’s never too early to plan out the games you can attend.
Finance
Out for 2025: High-interest debt. In for 2025: This balance transfer card, featuring cash back on purchases, zero annual fee, and 0% intro APR into 2026.*
Trending
Shop the No. 1 new face powder release: Laneige’s Neo Blurring Powder. It absorbs excess oil, leaving you with a more natural, softer complexion.*
The Buy
The Buy
A really good pet insurance plan. Let’s face it — vet bills aren’t getting any cheaper, and your fur baby’s health shouldn’t be a financial stressor. Money has ranked top pet insurance picks, with plans starting at just $10 a month.*
This simple soup recipe has helped me through the recent winter months. And you can give it some local flavor by picking up the ingredients at a local farmers market.
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