City officials will host a community meeting on Wednesday, June 11, to discuss plans to replace the Arthur Ashe Boulevard bridge. Now over 75 years old, the bridge has been deemed outdated for use.

The bridge, built over the CSX railroad, better connects interstate traffic to the Diamond District and Scott's Addition. Photo courtesy of Google Street View

This $38 million project is still in its early phases, which means community input is more vital now than ever. The project timeline anticipates a final design by March 2026. Construction will follow in the fall of 2026, slated for completion in late 2028.

If you can’t make it to this week’s community meeting, don’t fret. Another public input session will take place this fall, followed by a public hearing in the winter.

Gather your thoughts

We browsed the project plans for you + put together a few questions to help prompt your feedback.

Designs are only at 30% completion now, so there is plenty of room for your input. | Photo provided by the City of Richmond.

Access:

How can the new bridge improve accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and cars?
What specific features would help cater to pedestrian commutes?

Safety:

How can the new bridge increase safety for drivers and pedestrians while minimizing travel times and decreasing congestion?

Economic development:

How can the new bridge help connect small businesses and make for a more pedestrian-friendly area?
What small business would you love to see boosted through improved access?

Keep in mind: This bridge is a significant connection point for Scott's Addition and the newly developing Diamond District.

Appearance:

How can the new bridge serve as a visually appealing development?
What are the potential avenues to support local artists?
How can nature be incorporated into the final design?

History:

Should any parts of the bridge be preserved for historical significance?

Project plans note (Future) Carmax Park, Movieland at Boulevard Square, and River City Roll as a few points of interest. | Photo provided by the City of Richmond

There are still many bridges to cross during the development process, but these early stages are vital for community members to make their voices heard.

Attend the community meeting

Tomorrow’s community meeting will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Science Museum of Virginia, located at 2500 W. Broad St.

Want to cut to the chase and share your thoughts now? We may not be on the construction crew, but we'd still love to hear.