Description
Title: To request that the Chief Administrative Officer cause the Department of Planning and Development Review to (i) collaborate with the residents of and stakeholders in the Westwood neighborhood, bordered by Dunbar Street, Patterson Avenue, and Glenburnie Road, to evaluate and recommend appropriate land use, zoning, and policy tools, , and (ii) develop community-informed design guidelines and strategies to preserve the cultural and historic character of the Westwood neighborhood and support neighborhood stability, and (iii) provide a written report of such findings and recommendations. (1st Distr
Summary
On May 26, 2026, the Richmond City Council introduced Resolution No. 2026-R, aimed at preserving the Westwood neighborhood, a historically significant community established by formerly enslaved African Americans. The resolution requests that the Chief Administrative Officer direct the Department of Planning and Development Review to collaborate with Westwood residents and stakeholders to assess land use and zoning strategies that honor the neighborhood's cultural character while ensuring housing stability. The initiative addresses concerns about increased development pressures threatening the community's identity and offers a framework for a community-driven planning process to develop guidelines that prevent displacement and promote long-term investment. A report detailing findings and recommendations is expected within 180 days of the resolution's adoption. This effort aligns with Richmond's strategic goals of affordable housing access