The Planning and Preservation Division (P & P) is responsible for a multitude of long range planning initiatives, including
developing and updating the city-wide Master Plan and the Downtown Plan. Our staff also leads all city-initiated rezoning
studies.
P & P staff develops specific long-range plans for consideration by the
City Planning Commission and adoption by City Council. This includes updating and
amending the Richmond's Master Plan, the Downtown Plan, Environmental Plan and various
neighborhood plans and studies.
Rezoning Studies
P & P staff conducts fieldwork and studies existing land uses for compatibility with the underlying zoning and master plan vision
for specific neighborhoods. These studies can result in a city-initiated rezoning of the area, which includes community input and
public meetings. Currently, the staff is working on the Church Hill Area rezoning and the Manchester rezoning.
Plan Implementation / Ongoing Studies
P & P staff engages in long range planning studies and projects to support implementation of the city's Master Plans and other community priorities. These studies can pertain to a variety of civic concerns, such as parking requirements, street trees, and environmental issues.
P & P staff is responsible for enforcing the Old and Historic District Ordinance and provides support to the Commission of Architectural Review. Our staff also reviews projects associated with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.
Urban Design Committee
The Urban Design Committee (UDC) reviews work taking place on public property or within the public right-of-way. The UDC meets once a month to consider these applications.
Public Art Commission
The Public Art Commission (PAC) considers proposals for art installations on public property. The PAC meets bi-monthly and administers the Percent-for-Art program.
Census and Demographic Data
P & P staff collects, analyzes and disseminates U.S. Census data about the city of Richmond to the general public and other city agencies.
Environmental Permit Review
Staff coordinates and reviews all applications to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality within the city of Richmond.
Environmental Impact Reports
P & P staff coordinates and reviews all applications to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality within the city, that involve air pollution, water pollution and solid waste discharge permits to ensure compliance with local ordinances. Where applicable, staff may coordinate the citizen review process.
