RVA now one step from top – 6 upgrades in 5 years   Standard and Poor’s (S&P) has upgraded Richmond’s general obligation debt rating to AA+, the next-to-highest rating possible. S&P specifically praised the city’s strong financial performance, including its strong reserves, continued investment in economic development projects and adopted fiscal and debt policies. “This upgrade is proof positive that our financial and economic actions are paying off,” said Mayor Dwight C. Jones. “Wall Street recognizes that Richmond is on the move. We’ve now earned six upgrades in five years, demonstrating that investors are confident in Richmond and our ability to make big things happen.” S&P cited Richmond’s significant role in the regional economy, experienced management team, moderate per capita debt and manageable capital plan as significant factors in the decision to upgrade. The Mayor, along with members of Richmond City Council and city officials met with the three bon

Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones issued the following statement today following President Barack Obama’s speech recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington: “Fifty years ago today, I was 15 and traveling through Washington, DC with my parents on the day Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his historic speech to this nation. Today, President Barack Obama also delivered a historic speech marking this 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington. Reflecting on Martin Luther King’s lasting legacy and listening to the President today reminds me that I stand on the shoulders of the men and women who marched in Washington. I haven’t lost sight of the fact that I am an African-American mayor in a once terribly segregated Jim Crow city: the former capital of the Confederacy. My path to this seat in office is a direct reflection of the gains made as a result of the Civil Rights movement. But even as I reflect on the many gains and tremendous strides, I don’t discount th

The City of Richmond and partner CultureWorks are pleased to announce the launch of the Arts and Cultural District Micro Grant Program. The Micro Grant Program is one of several recent city initiatives targeted to the Broad Street Arts and Cultural District. The purpose of the grant program is to increase the activity and vibrancy of the Arts and Cultural District through the combined effect of several, small grant funded projects and improvements.   “Broad Street is Richmond’s front door and those that do business in the Arts and Cultural District are helping to put Richmond’s best foot forward,” said Mayor Dwight C. Jones. “These grant opportunities will help these businesses be able to host and bring even bigger and better exhibits to the heart of the city and in turn show our visitors what a great city Richmond is.” Two categories of grants are available; project support and capital improvements. Project support grants of up to $1,000 are designed to help fund special eve