Know your way around a planning commission meeting with our guide. | Photo by @j.will.photography
City code language can be confusing — we’re here to demystify it. The next time you find yourself turned around by the terminology of complex developments or news releases, use this vocab guide as your 101.
Pro tip: These terms will come in handy when diving into Richmond’s Code Refresh drafts.
Mixed-use
Projects that serve multiple community purposes.
Think: The upcoming Diamond District project will be a mixed-use development with commercial, residential, and retail spaces.
Rezoning
Changing an area of land from the city’s designated use. For example, rezoning might be considered when a developer seeks to build a high-rise in a neighborhood with a height restriction.
Think: City Council formerly adopted an ordinance to revise the zoning code around City Center ahead of its redevelopment.
For many years, City Council has taken a piecemeal approach to rezoning and amending the zoning ordinance.
Eager for more Renaissance Faire fun? As you wish. Richmond Ren Faire returns this April, but to ease the wait, you can attend a fencing demonstration and screening of “The Princess Bride” at the Byrd Theater on Saturday, Feb. 7. The cost isn’t too inconceivable — reserve your $15 ticket.
Volunteer
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is next Monday, Jan. 19. There are plenty of opportunities to show support for your neighbors on this National Day of Service, like Gallery5’s cemetery clean-up day or Sylvia Sisters’ supply-packing session. Find those sign-ups and 20+ more volunteer options for next Monday.
Concert
This one’s for the 1990s indie-rock loyalists. California-based band Pavement will perform at The National on Saturday, July 25. If you’re already eager to curate your summer concert calendar, you can cement your spot (aka buy tickets) starting this Friday, Jan. 16, at 10 a.m.
City
The inauguration of Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger will take place this Saturday, Jan. 17, at 12 p.m. in Capitol Square. Tickets for the event are sold out, but anyone out and about should keep these inauguration-day street closures in mind.
Cause
Maymont Community Garden has launched a petition to fund shade structures at Texas Beach Skate Park, stating, “This would be a game-changing investment.” They propose additional funding for gutters, rain barrels, and solar-powered cell phone charging stations.
Asked
Lombardy Market, a staple convenience store in the Fan, has been advertising their claim to “the best deviled eggs in RVA” for quite some time. We’ve heard tales of superiority, but seek more local opinion. Have you tried the golden eggs? For the sake of journalism, let us know your thoughts.
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Some golden vocabulary selections inspired by today’s newsletter: Squish, faeries, weenie dogs, 1980s film, 1990s rock, and deviled eggs. What did we miss?
In case you missed some context, I’ll remind you of one: I want to hear what you think of the deviled eggs at Lombardy Market. It’s very important.Drop a line.
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