Posted April 1, 2026

RICHMOND, VA – The Richmond Department of Transportation (RDOT) is launching a set of street upgrades designed to created more protected space for people walking and biking along Forest Hill at the intersection of 41st Street and the intersection of 43rd Street. This project supports the City’s Vision Zero Initiative for ongoing commitment to speed management, safety, and equitable access for all road users, regardless of age or ability. 

 Construction is scheduled to begin in April, weather permitting, and completed by Winter 2026.

 Improvements include:

• Installation of Pedestrian refuge islands with ADA accessible ramps, allowing people to cross the street in shorter, safer stages and reducing the time they are exposed to traffic
• Relocation and upgrade of an existing Rapid Flash Beacon (RFP), which will be enhanced with a permanent power source
  
  • A RFB is a type of pedestrian crossing signal that alerts drivers with bright and quick flashing lights to let drivers know that someone wants to cross the street. It is only activated when someone pushes the button to cross the street.
• Conversion of the existing buffered bike lanes into a hardened, more protected bike lane to help keep vehicles out of the bike lanes near important crossings

 These improvements build on the recent safety upgrades along the corridor, including speed tables to slow traffic and buffered bike lanes.

 Scheduled Road Closures, weather permitting: 

April 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Forest Hill Avenue at 41st Street will be closed to install conduit across the roadway.
• The road will reopen at the end of the day.

 April 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Forest Hill Avenue at 43rd Street will be closed to install a conduit
• The road will reopen at the end of the day.

 “This work is about making everyday trips safer – whether someone is walking to school, the park, or biking through the neighborhood,” said Richmond Transportation Director, Andy Boenau. By shortening crossings, increasing bike protection, and improving the RFP, the city is creating a street that works better for everyone.”

 This $770,000 project was funded by grants from the Commonwealth Transportation Board, Virginia Department of Transportation Local Assistance Division, and PlanRVA’s Transportation Alternatives Program. Richmond City Council and Mayor Danny Avula’s office provided matching funds and key support.

 This project supports the City’s Vision Zero Action Plan by utilizing a complete streets approach to enhance safe access for all. The design process was guided through public engagement gathered through surveys.

 We're Social! For updates on DPW-related projects, activities, and events visit us on X @DPW_RichmondVA and follow us at x.com/RVA_DOT for news and transportation projects.

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk, and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; urban forestry; civil engineering and capital improvement projects along with the Department of Transportation (DOT). DPW delivers essential services that keep the city clean, safe, and healthy. The DOT plans, builds and maintains the city’s transportation system to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility for all users. The department is responsible for traffic operations, street signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, bike lanes, and transportation programs that support economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Guided by the city’s Vision Zero commitment, the DOT works to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven policies, street design, and community partnerships. In addition, the DOT issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station and the RVA Bike Share Program. Report service requests to RVA311.com or call 3-1-1.

Posted March 31, 2026

RICHMOND, Va. – The City of Richmond is reducing the speed limit on Westover Hills Boulevard between Forest Hill Avenue and the Nickel Bridge/toll plaza to 25 MPH.

 The decision to lower the speed limit is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to Vision Zero, an initiative aimed at eliminating traffic deaths and severe injuries by prioritizing safer streets for all users. New signage reflecting the updated 25 MPH speed limit will be installed in mid-April.

 “Westover Hills Boulevard has always been a road of connection,” said Councilwoman Sarah Abubaker. “As our neighborhoods have evolved, so has the way people travel—shifting from primarily cars to a mix of pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-vehicular commuters. Lowering the speed limit reflects our community’s evolving safety needs and the clear feedback we’ve heard from residents.”

 “By decreasing vehicle speeds, we create a safer environment for everyone—especially our most vulnerable road users,” said Richmond Transportation Director, Andy Boenau. “Managing speeds through engineering, enforcement, and education is part of our ongoing commitment to create a transportation system that’s comfortable for all ages, all abilities, and all modes of travel.” 

 Please give our construction workers extra space and slow down when you approach work zones.

 Residents are encouraged to stay informed about traffic safety initiatives on the City’s Vision Zero efforts at https://www.rva.gov/vision-zero. 

We're Social! For updates on DPW-related projects, activities, and events visit us on X @DPW_RichmondVA and follow us at x.com/RVA_DOT for news and transportation projects.

Posted March 31, 2026

RICHMOND, VA. – The Richmond Department of Transportation will install a new traffic signal at the intersection of Patterson Avenue and St. Christopher’s Road as part of its ongoing commitment to Vision Zero. Construction for the project is scheduled to begin in early April, weather permitting, and is expected to be completed by Summer 2026. 

This project includes the installation of:

• ADA-compliant curb ramps
• High-Visibility crosswalks, and
• Countdown pedestrian signal heads
• High-visibility traffic signals with reflective backplates (HVSB)
  
  • Used to improve signal recognition for drivers by creating contrast and enhancing visibility at night and in low-light conditions. 

“Every infrastructure improvement we make is grounded in Vision Zero,” said Richmond Transportation Director, Andy Boenau. “This installation reflects our data-driven approach to identifying high-risk locations and delivering targeted solutions that make a difference for the community.”

During construction, there will be intermittent lane and sidewalk closures. Please give our construction workers extra space. Please slow down in work zones and whenever you see orange cones.

This $680,000 project is funded through General Obligation (G.O.) bonds.

Vision Zero emphasizes safe systems approach to prevent severe crashes. By combining safe speeds, safe vehicles, safe roads, and safe people, and the best post-crash care, the City continues to build a healthier transportation network that prioritizes safe access using engineering, education, and enforcement.

For more information about Vision Zero, visit rva.gov/visionzero or email us at askpublicworks@rva.gov.

We’re Social! For updates on DPW-related projects, activities, and events, visit us X  @DPW_RichmondVA and follow us at x.com/RVA_DOT for transportation news and projects. 

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk, and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; urban forestry; civil engineering and capital improvement projects along with the Department of Transportation (DOT). DPW delivers essential services that keep the city clean, safe, and healthy. The DOT plans, builds and maintains the city’s transportation system to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility for all users. The department is responsible for traffic operations, street signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, bike lanes, and transportation programs that support economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Guided by the city’s Vision Zero commitment, the DOT works to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven policies, street design, and community partnerships. In addition, the DOT issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station and the RVA Bike Share Program. Report service requests to RVA311.com or call 3-1-1.

Posted March 24, 2026

RICHMOND, VA. – The Richmond Department of Transportation will start construction of a new traffic signal at the intersection of Broad Rock Boulevard at Orcutt Lane in early April. This project is another example of the city’s commitment to Vision Zero. 

This project prioritizes pedestrian safety with the installation of:

• ADA-compliant curb ramps
• High-Visibility crosswalks, and
• Countdown pedestrian signal heads

New high-visibility traffic signals with reflective backplates (HVSB) will improve signal recognition for drivers by creating contrast and enhancing visibility at night and in low-light conditions. 

Together, these engineering improvements have been proven to provide gaps in traffic for people walking and biking to Broad Rock Elementary School and accessing transit. 

“Every element of this project is designed with safety in mind – for people of all abilities,” said Richmond Transportation Director, Andy Boenau. “From high-visibility signals to accessible ramps and visible crossings, these upgrades work together to reduce risk and help save lives. This is what Vision Zero looks like in action.”

Construction will start in early April, weather permitting, and is expected to be completed by Fall 2026. 

During construction, there will be intermittent lane and sidewalk closures. Please give our construction workers extra space. Please slow down in work zones and whenever you see orange cones.

This $780,000 project is funded through Central Virginia Transportation Authority (CVTA), which supports transportation improvements across the region.

Vision Zero emphasizes safe systems approach to prevent severe crashes. By combining safe speeds, safe vehicles, safe roads, and safe people, and the best post-crash care, the City continues to build a healthier transportation network that prioritizes safe access using engineering, education, and enforcement.

For more information about Vision Zero, visit rva.gov/visionzero or email us at askpublicworks@rva.gov.

We’re Social! For updates on DPW-related projects, activities, and events, visit us X  @DPW_RichmondVA.

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk, and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; urban forestry; civil engineering and capital improvement projects along with the Department of Transportation (DOT). DPW delivers essential services that keep the city clean, safe, and healthy. The DOT plans, builds and maintains the city’s transportation system to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility for all users. The department is responsible for traffic operations, street signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, bike lanes, and transportation programs that support economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Guided by the city’s Vision Zero commitment, the DOT works to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven policies, street design, and community partnerships. In addition, the DOT issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station and the RVA Bike Share Program. Report service requests to RVA311.com or call 3-1-1.

Posted March 20, 2026

~All service requests in the system by March 31 will be processed ~

RICHMOND, Va. – City of Richmond residents who still need vacuum leaf removal must request the service by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31. No requests will be accepted after that date. Service requests currently in the system and those made by the deadline will be processed. Vacuum service requests can be made using the RVA311 app, by visiting https://www.rva311.com or calling 3-1-1.

Residents have the option of paying the $30 vacuum leaf collection fee by adding it to their utility bill using the RVA 311 system (or by calling 3-1-1) or by mailing a check/money order to the Department of Public Works, Leaf Collection Program, 900 East Broad Street, Suite 704, Richmond, VA 23219. 

The payment must be received before the collection is scheduled. If mailing a check/money order, the payment must be received by the March 31 deadline.

Vacuum Leaf Collection Reminders:

• Leaves must be raked and ready for pickup at the time of the request

• Rake leaves to the property line (front or side) but not in the street

  • Do not block ditches, gutters, or the street 

• Remove any sticks, stones or other objects that may damage equipment

• Leaves will not be collected from the alley

For information on DPW, go to rva.gov/public-works or email us at AskPublicWorks@rva.gov.

We’re Social! For updates on DPW-related projects, activities and events visit us on X @DPW_RichmondVA

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 225 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk, and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; urban forestry; civil engineering and capital improvement projects along with the Department of Transportation (DOT). DPW delivers essential services that keep the city clean, safe, and healthy. The DOT plans, builds and maintains the city’s transportation system to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility for all users. The department is responsible for traffic operations, street signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, bike lanes, and transportation programs that support economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and quality of life. Guided by the city’s Vision Zero commitment, the DOT works to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries through data-driven policies, street design, and community partnerships. In addition, the DOT issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages Main Street Station and the RVA Bike Share Program. Report service requests to RVA311.com or call 3-1-1