About Richmond's Honorary Street Name Designations
Honorary street names can be found throughout Richmond, and are intended to memorialize individuals for their civic, cultural, humanitarian, or historically significant contributions to the Richmond Community. These designations typically apply to a portion of a street, such as a city block, and are designated by Richmond City Council via the passing of an Ordinance. Honorary street names do not replace the existing name of a street and do not require an alteration to maps or addresses.
Ronald C. Lewis
Ronald C. Lewis served as Richmond's first African American Fire Chief, a post which he held for 17 years (1978 until his retirement in 1995). He guided the modernization of what is now the City’s Department of Fire and Emergency Services, and advocated for equality in hiring and promotional opportunities for minority firefighters.
During his tenure, Fire Chief Lewis oversaw the rebuilding of seven fire houses, secured funding for updated firefighting equipment and advanced protective gear, and launched progressive firefighter training and development programs. He also spearheaded a successful fire safety education campaign delivered to Richmond residents, resulting in a significant yearly decline in fire-related fatalities.
Designation Area:
Birdwood Road has been designated in honor of retired Fire Chief Ronald C. Lewis.
Download the Council Ordinance:
Learn more about this Honorary Street Designation by downloading a copy of the legislation. The Council Ordinance below is in PDF format:
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