Vibrant wildflowers and grassy meadows will fill the park’s major green spaces. | Photo courtesy of the city of Richmond, Marvel, and TYLin
The development of Mayo Island’s new park feels more tangible than ever.
After years of proposals, budget meetings, and community feedback, Richmond’s Urban Design committee has unanimously approved conceptual designs and a construction timeline for the 16-acre site.
What can you expect?
A focus on natural elements rather than constructed buildings and commercial features. Think gravel + dirt walking paths, convenient water access, grassy meadows, picnic benches, and wildflowers.
Launch off with your paddleboard or kayak at the new park, designed intentionally to mitigate river flooding. | Photo courtesy of the city of Richmond, Marvel, and TYLin
“The site’s transformation includes the removal of impervious surfaces, introduction of layered meadow systems for habitat restoration, and the integration of stormwater gardens and no-rise grading techniques,” according to the official staff report.
“The park will feature universally accessible pathways, interpretive signage, paddler launch points, and portable restrooms.”
Anticipated bridge construction and continued park enhancements are detailed in the 2027 timeline, following the park’s official opening. | Photo courtesy of the city of Richmond, Marvel, and TYLin
The timeline
Main takeaways: Demolition is slated to begin this fall and lead into 2026. New construction and environmental management will follow, aiming toward a tentative park opening in October 2026.
Clay Creations: A Ceramic Celebration Exhibition | Tuesday, May 20-Tuesday, July 29 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Crossroads Art Center | Free | Browse this ceramics exhibit showcasing award-winning pieces by local artists — from thought-provoking sculptures to fascinating pottery vessels.
Wednesday, May 21
Yarn Yippee | 6-7:30 p.m. | Richmond Main Public Library | Free | Bring a work-in-progress project or arrive early for limited access to beginner supplies at this cozy, crafty club.
Thursday, May 22
Flowers and Fidos After Five | 5-8 p.m. | Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden | $20 | Enjoy live music at this garden concert series, and feel free to bring your leashed pup along this week.
Rock ‘n’ Roan: Open Skate | 6:30-9 p.m. | Rollerdome | $7+ | Chappell Roan fans are in for a treat with this themed open-skate night, which includes skate rentals in the ticket price.
A four-story, mixed-use building might join Patterson Avenue, near Pump Road. The new build would occupy the site of a formerly destroyed office building, lost to a fire in 2024. Wilton Companies is slated to submit a rezoning application soon and move forward with construction next spring. (Richmond BizSense)
Traffic
It’s high school graduation season. Be prepared for heavier-than-usual traffic and occasional parking blockages around VCU’s Siegel Center. Fifteen schools will hold ceremonies between now and Friday, May 23, as well as Wednesday, May 28, through Friday, May 30. (CBS 6)
Community
Richmond’s Office of Equitable Transit and Mobility invites volunteers to contribute to a street mural painting at Laburnum Avenue and Hermitage Road. Community Paint Day, intended to enhance safety culture and beautify public spaces, will take place on Saturday, May 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m, and you can sign up now.
Giveaway
Tickets, memberships, and exhibits — oh my. The Richmond Experience teamed up with 10 local venues for last Sunday’s International Museum Day, and you can still join the running for this prize haul. Head to Instagram, check out the details, and follow the entry steps. A winner will be chosen tomorrow, May 21.
Mailbag
RICtoday reader Mike P. recommended adding Team Trivia at JJ’s Grille to our quizzical guide, noting that it’s a popular Wednesday dig. Bonus: This week marks JJ’s 600th Team Trivia game, and the grill is celebrating with $350 worth of gift-card giveaways.
Get your kid in the game this summer with Richmond Spiders Camps. Led by NCAA Division I athletes and coaches, these camps are open to all skill levels and offer sports like soccer, football, field hockey, and more. Explore all camps + register.*
Calling all business owners and hiring managers — we’re growing our RICtoday Job Board, which means you can post unlimited job listings for free. No tricks or gimmicks — simply create an account and start posting.
The Buy
One of our favorite trends of the summer: textured handbags. From straw to beaded, these are our top five picks:
🌟 This standout wood bead bracelet handle bag is the perfect accessory for your beach vacation.
🌟 This versatile braided tote made with 70% recycled plastic is available in 35+ colors.
🌟 MANGO’s woven canvas crossbody with smooth faux leather detailing offers fun textural interplay.
🌟 This crescent straw bag with an adjustable shoulder strap will be our go-to all summer long.
🌟 An elegant rope clutch is a must for summertime weddings and cocktail parties.
I’m back from my Smoky Mountain trip — unfortunately, no run-ins with Dolly, but still a lovely time.
I was eager to catch up on the Mayo Island Park news upon returning. These finalized designs elevate preliminary visions and meeting notes to a new reality. Don’t forget to tell us what you think of the latest proposals.
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