February 4, 2025

Water Crisis Funds Already Committed, A VCU 'Monopoly', and a Planned Protest

Cheers RVA!

Today we’ll see more sunshine with a few clouds and a high in the mid-60’s. The evening will be chilly with temperatures in the mid 30’s and expected to remain low throughout Wednesday.

the juice:

The City of Richmond has paused the application process for Water Recovery Assistance Funds stating that 100% of the funds are “fully committed to Richmonders financially impacted by the crisis.”

More than 2200 applications have been submitted since Jan 31, and residents who qualify for up to $2500 in recovery funding will be notified within 10-15 business days.

The Water Recovery Assistance fund is a part of the Family Crisis Fund.

The city has contributed more than $2.6 million to the Family Crisis Fund since 2024, with Mayor Danna Avula noting:

I know many Richmonders are facing real challenges following the water outage — rent payments, child care costs, missed medical bills. Water Recovery Assistance through the Family Crisis Fund is one important way the City can work together with residents to face those challenges. The water crisis was not the only challenge we’ll face in the coming years, and Richmonders deserve a robust and resilient Family Crisis Fund to help us meet those future challenges together. And so, my team and I are currently exploring all options to expand financial support for this critical program.

the pulp:

• A protest at the bell tower at Capitol Square is being planned for Wednesday at noon as part of the 50501 movement to “reject Project 2025 and the Heritage Foundation.” Details are still murky but Newsweek is reporting protests are being planned for Wednesday at all 50 state capitol buildings in all 50 states.

• With the purchase of the Rite Aid and adjacent parking lot VCU now controls all four corners of the intersection of Broad and Belvidere, according to Mike Platania at Bizsense. The property sits across from the $235 million Center for Arts and Innovation currently under construction and expected to be completed by late 2027.

• Venture Richmond has compiled a list of 90+ Black-owned businesses in the city, sorted by category and neighborhood, including restaurants, shopping, services and attractions.

• Richmond has a new emergency alert system, Richmond Ready Alerts, which will replace the previous system CodeRed. Sign up here.

the vibe:

Have an unstoppable day RVA!

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