More than $40 million proposed for affordable housing, anti-displacement strategies, and critical safety improvements in FY27.  

Richmond, VA  — On Friday, February 27, standing alongside City leaders, and community partners, Mayor Avula outlined key proposed investments in Pillar Two: Thriving Neighborhoods, ahead of the full release of his Fiscal Year 2027 proposed budget on March 11. This early look is intended to help residents see how their priorities—especially the need for more homes for more people and more ways to stay in the neighborhoods they love—are reflected in the City’s spending plan.  

Mayor Avula emphasized that a thriving Richmond depends on meeting the housing and public safety needs of a growing city, ensuring that people at every income level can access stable, affordable homes in safe neighborhoods supported by strong public amenities. Key FY27 proposals include: 

• Significant new investments in affordable housing, including  $11.7 million for the redesigned, unanimously approved Affordable Housing Trust Fund,  and  $1.8 million in Affordable Housing Performance Grants  to spur the production and preservation of affordable homes.
• A person‑centered approach to public housing redevelopment, with  $1.6 million to advance the next phase of Creighton Court  and new funding to support the “people plan” for Gilpin Court—covering engagement, whole‑family case management, and transition planning.
• Continued anti‑displacement strategies, including  $700,000 for Right to Counsel services, $1 million for Family Crisis Funds, $1 million for eviction diversion programs to help tenants stay in their homes, and $7.4 million in tax relief for older adults and residents with disabilities, and
• $15.6 million for renovation and safety improvements to the John Marshall Courthouse  

Together, these investments increase the supply of housing, help long‑time residents remain in their communities, and support safe, stable neighborhoods as Richmond continues to grow. 

Along with Odie Donald II, Chief Administrative Officer, Richmond Councilmember Ellen Robertson (6th District) and City of Richmond’s housing and community development, economic development, public safety, and emergency preparedness leaders, Mayor Avula was joined by long‑time partners in advancing housing and community stability, including Jovan Burton of the Partnership for Housing Affordability , Laura Lafayette of the Richmond Association of Realtors , Ciera Frye of Southside Community Development and Housing Corporation , and Rev. Donté McCutchen of Love Cathedral Community Church and Heart For The City . 

The full FY27 proposed budget will be presented publicly on March 11 and submitted to City Council for review and deliberation. For more information about the FY27 budget process, visit FY27 Budget Season | Richmond.