Extension allows community members additional time to explore, digest, and provide feedback  

Richmond, VA – The City of Richmond has extended the comment period on draft two of the Code Refresh maps and use regulations. The extension gives community members more time to explore, digest, and offer feedback on the most recent iteration of the City’s proposed zoning ordinance. 

The comment period, which was originally scheduled to close on Sunday, February 15, has been moved two weeks to Sunday, March 1 at 11:59 p.m. ET . Community members have until that time to visit the interactive tools available at rva.gov/coderefresh and leave their comments.  

“The recent and persistent winter weather has been challenging for our community engagement efforts,” said Mayor Danny Avula . “Shifting the timeline ensures that community members have the time and space to continue sharing thoughtful feedback that is essential to creating a zoning code that reflects the needs and priorities of our many diverse neighborhoods.” 

Code Refresh is a key strategy in the Mayor’s comprehensive housing plan , which he presented yesterday to Richmond City Council’s Organizational Development Standing Committee. The other three pillars of that strategy include: 

• Establishing predictable City funding for the construction and preservation of affordable housing through a new ordinance.
• Committing to collaborative public housing redevelopment by holding RRHA accountable and centering residents.
• Delivering on anti-displacement by improving administration of our existing programs. 

Together, these priorities are meant to refine and strengthen Richmond’s housing work to create more homes for more people and expand the ways residents can stay in their homes. A new zoning code is critical to addressing the former.  

“Code Refresh is an opportunity to establish a regulatory environment that allows for increased housing supply and choices,” said Director of Planning and Development Review Kevin J. Vonck .  “It is an important piece of the Mayor’s housing plan and for our City’s future growth. We continue to encourage all residents to get involved in this process so we can make sure, as we draw the maps and write the rules, we are doing so with thought and care. This extension gives more space for that to happen.” 

Residents are encouraged to learn more about the Code Refresh process—including key changes between drafts one and two and additional opportunities to engage—on the Code Refresh website .