Richmond Zoning Code Refresh

February 2024 - Present - CURRENT

Richmond, VA

Brick & Story is working alongside Code-Studio to provide engagement strategy and services to the City of Richmond as they undertake their first zoning ordinance update since 1976, as called for by Richmond 300, the city’s most recent master plan. This initiative, known as Code Refresh, aims to identify gaps in engagement from the Richmond 300 process and explore new ways to connect with historically underrepresented communities to help create a more inclusive and accessible Richmond for both current and future residents.

Brick & Story is leading the development and implementation of a community engagement strategy that prioritized creative, accessible, and meaningful participation opportunities throughout the planning process. Our work includes hosting pop-up events across different project phases, facilitating open houses to share progress updates, and launching a Community Ambassador Program to reach residents beyond traditional engagement settings by working through trusted local leaders and their networks. We have also organized several public panels on zoning topics where community members can engage directly with experts, and we are planning targeted roundtables to uplift underrepresented voices. Additionally, we have been actively collaborating with local groups such as the Zoning Advisory Council (ZAC) by participating in monthly meetings to share updates and gather feedback.