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This new build would be 316,000 sqft with 800+ parking spaces, offices, meeting rooms, and swing space. | Rendering via Virginia Department of General Services
Richmond’s tallest building may find new life, or become rubble, according to new plans from Virginia’s Department of General Services.
The Department of General Services revealed new renderings at its meeting with the General Assembly last month that detailed its plans for a new, 316,000-sqft building. If fully approved, the project would replace both the VODT Annex site at 1401 E. Broad St. as well as the James Monroe Building at 101 N. 14th St.
Initial estimates show this would cost in the “mid-$400 million” range. The agency noted that renovations would be “approximately equal” to new construction costs.
Currently, the project is expected to take two years to design + an additional three years to build. Other challenges still remain as well, such as finding new places for the agencies that currently work inside the Monroe Building.
Ultimately, DPS said it will leave the fate of the Monroe Building to the General Assembly, who have the power to surplus, sell, or demolish.
Trivia Night | 6-8 p.m. | Intermission Beer Company | Free | Stop in for a friendly night of trivia with prizes for nearly all participants.
Friday, Feb. 21
Science on Tap: Mystery at the Museum | 6 p.m. | Science Museum of Virginia | $25+ | Leave the kids at home and visit the museum for a night of riddles, puzzles, food trucks, and drinks.
Saturday, Feb. 22
Model Train Exhibition | Saturday, Feb. 22-Sunday, Feb. 23 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Westchester Commons | Free | Hobbyists and collectors are invited to this show that will have 100+ years of train history on display.
Sunday, Feb. 23
Geoffrey Asmus | 6-8 p.m. | Richmond Funny Bone | $27+ | Prepare to to laugh with this former first-grade teacher who is now a touring stand up comedian.
Henrico Restaurant Week will return from April 28 to May 4 with two-course lunches + three-course dinners at a discounted price. Check out the Restaurant Week website for a full list of participating restaurants. This year’s proceeds will benefit Safe Harbor, a local nonprofit that supports survivors of violence and trafficking. (ABC 8)
Open
A new coworking space is open at The Fan. Ours is a New York-based company that resides inside a former pilates studio that now has multiple working desks, meeting space, a kitchen, and a lounge area. (Richmond BizSense)
Closed
Ipanema Cafe, a mostly vegetarian cafe, permanently closed after 25 years of business. The local restaurant had its building purchased in 2023 as a part of a combined real estate deal. There are no clear plans for the future of the building yet. (Richmond Times-Dispatch)
Watch
Can’t get enough of the snow? Recap the moment with these live footage cameras scattered across the Commonwealth, capturing the winter storm. (Richmond-Times Dispatch)
Plan Ahead
Let the races begin, Richmond. The 2025 Virginia Derby is happening Saturday, March 15 at Colonial Downs. With your $5 general admission ticket, enjoy a fun-filled day of thoroughbred racing, live entertainment, and plenty of action. Reserve your spot.*
Finance
Owe more than $10,000 in debt? You’re not alone — personal debt is on the rise. Freedom Debt Relief could help by offering a personalized debt settlement plan and negotiating with creditors to reduce your amount owed (with one low monthly payment + no upfront fees). Get started.*
Finance
2025 is your year to put a dent in your credit card debt. Check out these top balance transfer cards offering 0% APR on transfers into 2026. (That’s nearly two years of no interest, plus some sweet rewards.) Learn more + apply.*
Coming Soon
Did this catch your eye? That’s because locals (like you) are excited about new happenings in the city. Spread the word about your business, services, big news, or event coming soon to Richmond.
The Buy
The Buy
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I used to prefer dogs, but now I’m team cat. I’ve had a cat for five years, and he’s practically my shadow at this point. In fact, he’s looking over my shoulder right now, trying to find typos and critiquing my puns. No one said it was easy being a cat dad.
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