The City will open three cooling shelters on Friday, June 26, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., as temperatures are forecasted to exceed 95 degrees. City cooling shelters are opened to assist residents when the temperature/heat index reaches or exceeds the 95 degree mark. Cooling shelters are located at: -Southside Community Center, 4100 Hull Street -Department of Social Services, 900 East Marshall Street -East District Center, 701 North 25th Street Bottled water will be available, but food will not be provided. Pets, with the exception of service animals, will not be allowed. All residents should take measures to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat during the day. For more information regarding cooling services, citizens can contact the Department of Social Services Fuel Assistance Office, 646-7046. Elderly citizens with heat related issues can contact the Adult Protective Service Unit, 646-7367. In the event of a heat related emergency, please call 9-1-1. ...

Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced today his support for the American Clean Energy and Security Act (H.R. 2454), legislation that will be voted on by the U.S. House of Representatives this Friday, June 26. The landmark legislation is considered historic in nature and provides clean energy incentives, encourages innovation and recognizes the concerns of sensitive industries and regions around the United States. "Comprehensive energy legislation that addresses the need for jobs, economic growth and energy independence is of the utmost importance for our country," said the Mayor. "Climate change is a problem that needs to be addressed and this bill is a good step forward in addressing the concerns. I am pleased that the bill contains a solid job training component and that concerns have been addressed about the financial impact on low income families." Additionally, Mayor Jones is supportive of funding measures for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (E...

The City will open three cooling shelters on Thursday, June 25, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., as temperatures are forecasted to exceed 95 degrees. City cooling shelters are opened to assist residents when the temperature/heat index reaches or exceeds the 95 degree mark. Cooling shelters are located at: - Southside Community Center, 4100 Hull Street -Department of Social Services, 900 East Marshall Street -East District Center, 701 North 25th Street Bottled water will be available, but food will not be provided. Pets, with the exception of service animals, will not be allowed. All residents should take measures to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat during the day. For more information regarding cooling services, citizens can contact the Department of Social Services Fuel Assistance Office, (804) 646-7046. Elderly citizens with heat related issues can contact the Adult Protective Service Unit, (804) 646-7367. In the event of a heat related emergency, please ca...

Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced today that Peter H. Chapman has accepted the position of Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) for Economic and Community Development. This position reports directly to the Chief Administrative Officer and the appointment will be effective as of July 13, 2009. Chapman, will have oversight responsibility for the Economic and Community Development portfolio, which includes the Departments of Economic Development and Community Development and the Offices of Minority Business Enterprise and Real Estate Services. Chapman will also be responsible for fostering and maintaining the City's partnership with the East District Initiative, Community and Economic Development Authorities, Greater Richmond Planning Commission, Greater Richmond Partnership, Port of Richmond, Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Richmond Metropolitan Authority, and the Greater Richmond Transit Company. "I am pleased to announce that Peter Chapman will be joining o...

RICHMOND, VA. - Mayor Dwight Jones issued the following statement following the decision by Highwood Properties to suspend their involvement in the Shockoe Bottom/Main Street Station proposed development: "The decision by Highwoods Properties to suspend their involvement in the Shockoe Bottom/Main Street Station and the Boulevard projects is due to many factors. As they have noted and as the City's own review underscored, their plan for self-financing is just not possible in today's revenue bond market. Additionally, there have been many changes that have come about since 2007 when they first developed their concept. Primarily, the prospect for high-speed rail at Main Street Station is a game changer for our area and we must carefully position ourselves for imminent high-speed rail opportunities. Also, there are several other considerations that need further research. They include the cultural heritage of the Shockoe area, the GRTC transfer station, and good developm...

Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced today that Marcus D. Jones has accepted the position of Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) for Finance and Administration. This position reports directly to the Chief Administrative Officer and the appointment will be effective as of August 24, 2009. Marcus Jones, 41, will provide key financial oversight for over $1.4 billion in annual revenue collection and spending, and oversee the departments of Finance, Budget and Strategic Planning, Procurement, Information Technology, and the Office of Risk Management. Marcus brings the kind of top-notch skills and 'can-do' attitude that Richmond needs. He is a highly-regarded individual with a depth of knowledge in Virginia state and local finances. This is a critical job in my administration, and I am delighted that Marcus will be part of my team,” stated Mayor Jones. Marcus Jones is a native of Caroline County, Virginia, and spent over a decade in Richmond as Deputy Secretary of Finance for Go...