RelyEx Solutions

Drayage Brokersin Richmond, VA

Contact RelyEx today to quote your next shipment.

QUOTE REQUEST phone-number843-885-3082

Because a drayage load can mean a few different things, confusion among carriers is common. Many carriers link drayage with going into a port, but that isn't always true. While all drayage loads typically originate from a port of entry, there are often several legs of a drayage journey before a container turns up at its final stop. Legs of a drayage load may include:

Why Are Drayage Companies in Richmond, VA So Important?

You may be thinking, what's so important about drayage? It's such a small step in the container storage transport process. In reality, it's an integral piece needed in the logistics industry and a crucial part of U.S. supply chain management.

To truly understand the importance of drayage, let's use flowers as an example. Most cut flower shipments enter the market from areas in South America until they end up at Dutch auction houses. Once there, wholesalers purchase flowers in bulk and send those products to retail outlets worldwide. Because flowers are perishable, they typically need to be refrigerated and are often shipped in reefer containers. These refrigerated vessels must maintain a certain temp to prevent loss.

Drayage companies like RelyEx allow flower shippers to send their products from Argentinian ports to airports in the Netherlands with peace of mind because their products are protected. The only way to accomplish this feat is with the help of swift, meticulous port drayage services. Drayage companies allow flower shippers to send their products from Argentinian ports to airports in the Netherlands with peace of mind, because their products are protected. The only way to accomplish this feat is with the help of swift, meticulous port drayage services.

If port drayage is compromised, it can cause delays and even fines. You know the packages you get delivered to your front door from apps like Amazon? Without drayage and drayage brokers, one or two-day shipping times wouldn't even be possible.

As a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U.S. alone, it seems like drayage shipping issues shouldn't exist. But the fact is inefficiencies and congestion are still major problems at ports. Whether it's a lack of carriers, absent chassis, or overburdened terminals, delays lead to missed deadlines, lost revenue, and worse.

But anytime challenges exist, so too do innovative solutions.

QUOTE REQUEST
Container Services Richmond, VA

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Drayage Richmond, VA

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Drayage Services Richmond, VA

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Logistic Services Richmond, VA

RelyEx Solves Problems

At RelyEx, we like to consider ourselves problem solvers. The nature of the container drayage industry presents new challenges every day, but we're firm believers that there's a solution to every hurdle we encounter. And while some drayage businesses implement a reactive approach, RelyEx customers choose us for our proactive mindset. We take pride in solving your company's drayage challenges to help you avoid frustrating fees, missed expectations, and delayed shipments. We strive to make every transaction successful and streamlined by partnering with shippers who prioritize transparent, prompt, and accurate communication.

Ocean Container Drayage Richmond, VA

RelyEx Has a Unique Vantage Point

RelyEx approaches your business from the customer's perspective - a unique approach that helps us provide high-quality, effective drayage services. We've been in the customers' shoes, know their pain points, and because of that, provide first-hand solutions to stressful supply chain issues. With over 30 years of collective knowledge, our team excels in:

  • Inventory Management
  • Logistics
  • Purchasing
  • Finance

Our varied, high-level drayage shipping experience helps us achieve our overarching goal: expertly managing your freight movement needs. That way, you can direct your time and focus on growing the core aspects of your business while we handle the heavy lifting. Throw in proactive planning to avoid bottleneck situations and strong communication for transparent customer relations, and you can see why so many companies trust RelyEx.

Warehousing Richmond, VA

RelyEx Nurtures Strong Carrier Relationships

When it comes to shipping logistics, it only takes one mistake by a mediocre worker to disrupt your business. That's why, at RelyEx, we pride ourselves on forming and nurturing relationships with carriers who match our standards of care. Our founding partner started his career transporting freight for companies as an on-demand carrier. He uses that knowledge to maximize the resources of our carriers so that our customer's expectations aren't just met - they're exceeded.

Based in the port city of Richmond, RelyEx has a keen understanding of the challenges of managing the inbound and outbound flow of containers. Our team of container drayage experts provides your business with unique solutions to nuanced shipping problems, minimizing demurrage and ensuring the successful delivery of your freight.

Transloading Richmond, VA

Customers choose RelyEx because:

  • We are a reliable drayage logistics partner that manages your freight from beginning to end
  • We have a rare industry vantage point with 30+ years of client-side experience
  • We foster and fortify the strongest vendor relations
  • We take a proactive approach to problem-solving, not a reactive approach
Let us know how we can help.
phone-number843-885-3082
Container Services Richmond, VA

Your Drayage Shipments Managed from Start to Finish

Some drayage brokers don't care how customers feel about their service as long as they sign a contract and get paid. As a solutions-oriented team, RelyEx takes the opposite approach. We're motivated by the opportunity to overachieve for our customers and to provide them with the best logistics experience possible. With professional experience as carriers and shippers ourselves, we know the roadblocks and challenges you're facing. We excel at mapping out the best plans of action to solve those problems. But that's just the start.

Our tracking experts monitor and manage every aspect of your drayage shipment from booking to delivery, 24/7. Once booked, we look for the availability of your containers hourly once they're at port. When they arrive, our team acts quickly to access your storage containers when they're available.

Plus, RelyEx ensures your company's requirements are met by the carrier during loading and delivery and provide necessary documentation as fast as possible. With real-time tracking updates and access to our customer service professionals, your team has complete visibility throughout the shipping process.

We Source Top-Notch Operators at the Best Prices

Over the years, RelyEx has built a strong network of drayage carriers, transloading locations, and container storage spaces to provide you with the best possible options to match your drayage service needs. We know that searching for quality service presents an added layer of complexity and stress to our customers. That's why we work hard to take that off your plate by connecting you with our reliable shipping partners.

With a background moving freight as an on-demand carrier, our founding partner understands how to maximize the resources and equipment of our carriers to match your needs.

Drayage Richmond, VA
Drayage Services Richmond, VA

We Make Transparent, Timely Communication a Priority

Like other industries, the global logistics space is complex. Mistakes will be made, and problems will happen. With those truths in mind, RelyEx has built its reputation as problem solvers. Unlike other drayage companies, we don't shy away from this industry's complexities because we take pride in solving problems. Even better, we aim to do what's needed to avoid those problems altogether.

As your logistics partner, we will provide your company with accurate, transparent, and prompt communication. If there are unexpected issues, we'll notify you immediately and will provide several options to remedy the problem. We even offer custom reporting for large clients who need at-the-moment updates and quick access to shipment documentation.

We Have Robust Project Management Experience

Why let the unpredictability of your industry dictate your success? With a background working in manufacturing, our founders are familiar with the demands of managing production schedules and sales orders. That experience makes it abundantly clear to us that every business and industry is different. If you struggle with seasonal surges or other factors, our team supports your business with a mapped-out plan and schedule, so you stay ahead of the game.

QUOTE REQUEST
Full Truck Load Richmond, VA

Paperwork Errors

Typically, shippers need four specific documents to clear shipments through customs: A Bill of Lading (or BOL), a commercial invoice, a packing list, and an arrival notice. Seasoned drayage brokers like RelyEx are used to preparing these documents, but new shippers tend to miss this step due to inexperience.

Payment Delays

If a shipper only pays for part of their shipment, a vessel operator may refuse to release their freight until their bill is fully paid. Payment delays lead to cargo detention at the port of entry, which triggers demurrage charges.

QUOTE REQUEST

Documents Received Too Late

Paperwork is needed when you're shipping goods with a drayage company. When documents like the Certificate of Origin or Bill of Lading arrive at their destination late, you can expect demurrage fees. RelyEx avoids this situation entirely by being proactive when submitting paperwork.

Additional causes for demurrage fees can include:

  • Damaged Container Storage
  • Custom Released Containers
  • Storage Containers Are Too Heavy

Free Consultation

RelyEx:

The Supply Chain Partner You Can Count On

At RelyEx, we know first-hand how stressful supply chain problems can be for business owners. Though drayage shipping might seem minor on the surface, it affects every stage of your shipping process. And when inevitable hurdles manifest, RelyEx propels you over the proverbial roadblocks with a proactive mindset and a passion for challenging projects. We believe that all problems have a solution, and our unique vantage point allows us to provide first-hand solutions to customers in a wide array of industries.

When it comes to your business, don't settle for anything less than RelyEx. Contact our office today to learn more about how we make your shipping experience streamlined and stress-free.

phone-number843-885-3082

Latest News in Richmond, VA

How to Spend Your Summer in Downtown Richmond

Spend Your Summer Downtown!Looking for a lineup of the best events in Richmond, VA to celebrate this summer? From outdoor live music to all you can eat crab festivals, there is something for everyone to do in downtown Richmond! Check out our list of summer events in Richmond, VA and spend the season near the River!Dominion Energy RiverrockFrom tunes to trail running, bikes to bouldering, SUPs to pups, fishing, craft brews, paddling on the James, and more…it’s all hap...

Spend Your Summer Downtown!

Looking for a lineup of the best events in Richmond, VA to celebrate this summer? From outdoor live music to all you can eat crab festivals, there is something for everyone to do in downtown Richmond! Check out our list of summer events in Richmond, VA and spend the season near the River!

Dominion Energy Riverrock

From tunes to trail running, bikes to bouldering, SUPs to pups, fishing, craft brews, paddling on the James, and more…it’s all happening right here in Richmond!

Highlighted by the James River, surrounding trail network, and numerous parks, we are lucky to have so many options for outdoor adventure! Join Riverrock and #RockTheOutdoors as you discover new ways to experience Richmond’s amazing outdoor scene!

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Festival Open Hours

Friday, May 19

Saturday, May 20

Sunday, May 21

See the full Riverrock schedule.

Friday Cheers

Friday Cheers is a weekly summer concert series that brings some of the biggest up-and-coming artists to Brown’s Island along Downtown Richmond's riverfront every Friday in May and June at just $10-15 for a family-friendly night of live music. Fun for all ages!

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Friday Cheers returns for its 38th season in 2023 as Richmond’s longest running concert series showcasing some of the nation’s hottest touring bands and all-time regional favorites.

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Check out the full lineup of artists.

LiveLoud Concerts

Enjoy some great shows from the Broadberry on Brown's Island! With artists like Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Young the Giant, and Jason Isbell, these outdoor shows in Richmond are sure to be a summer highlight!

Richmond Night Market

There's something for the whole family at the Richmond Night Market! Explore the Artisan Village and support local artists and small business owners while the Creative Kids Hangout keeps your young explorers busy then check out the Main Stage, which offers live music and crowd engagement. The Maker Space is where adults can create and have fun with friends, and new mural artists will be painting live throughout the night. Don't miss out on the fun of these summer activities in Richmond VA, held every second Saturday from 5-9 PM (April-December) at the 17th Street Market!

RVA Black Farmers Market

Experience the vibrant showcase of African American creators, crafters, farmers, and growers at the renowned RVA Black Farmers Market. This eagerly anticipated Richmond summer event returns to a Historic Jackson Ward outdoor venue, providing a platform for individuals to share their exceptional talents with the Richmond community. Immerse yourself in the diverse array of offerings, where creativity and skill come together to create a truly remarkable experience!

80's Was The Greatest

Get ready for the ultimate blast from the past with the highly anticipated 80's Was the Greatest on Brown's Island! Prepare to be amazed by incredible acts such as "JEEZY" (The SnoMan), the iconic "DRU HILL" featuring SISQO in celebration of their 25th anniversary, Grammy-nominated sensation "MARSHA AMBROSIUS" from the duo Floetry, hip-hop legend "KOOL MOE DEE," and the unstoppable force of "BE'LA DONA," DC's renowned all-female Go-Go Band.

Hammers & Ales

Hammers & Ales is an all-day party and community give-back event on Brown's Island Saturday, June 10th. The Hammers & Ales party side features live music, local beer & food trucks, and tool-themed games. The give-back experience includes team-sponsored build projects where participants use ToolBank materials, tools, and instructions to hand-build outdoor furniture and placemaking features that are donated to local community groups. This year, teams will choose from hand-building a park bench, picnic table, or a dog house. The outdoor furniture and placemaking features will be donated to James River Park and the doghouses go to Ring Dog Rescue.

4th Annual Crabs, Beer & Spirits by the James

Richmond's All You Can Eat Crab Festival is back on Brown's Island! Indulge in delicious hot and fresh crabs, live music featuring the legendary DJ Kool and En'Novation Band & Show with DJ Joe Fu and DJ Drake, along with food and merchandise vendors!

Virginia PrideFest

Virginia PrideFest is a FREE event celebrating Virginia's LGBTQ+ community with performers, vendors, food, live music and more! This year's festival will close with a special performance from Tegan and Sara - don't miss it!

Is Richmond, VA a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Consider

If you’re considering a move to Richmond, Virginia, you’re probably wondering if it’s the right place for you. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history or modern conveniences, there are countless reasons why people choose to call this place home. Richmond has a neighborhood for any lifestyle, from charming downtown condos near shops and restaurants to picturesque, affordable suburbs. However...

If you’re considering a move to Richmond, Virginia, you’re probably wondering if it’s the right place for you. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history or modern conveniences, there are countless reasons why people choose to call this place home. Richmond has a neighborhood for any lifestyle, from charming downtown condos near shops and restaurants to picturesque, affordable suburbs. However, like any city, there are also drawbacks to consider before moving to Richmond. .

In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in this exciting city, providing you with the information you need to decide whether Richmond is a good place to live. So whether you’re interested in Richmond apartments or Richmond homes, let’s dive in and discover all that this historic city has to offer.

Pros of living in Richmond

1. Rich history

Richmond’s rich history is undoubtedly one of the city’s most significant draws, and it’s a definite pro for anyone who calls this place home. From the American Revolution to the Civil War, Richmond has been at the forefront of many pivotal moments in American history. Historic monuments like the Virginia Capitol building and museums like the Edgar Allan Poe Museum serve as a reminder of the crucial role the city played in shaping the United States. For history buffs, the city offers a treasure trove of information and experiences to explore, and for everyone else, it’s an opportunity to learn and appreciate the stories and events that have led us to where we are today. The rich history of Richmond is not just something to admire from afar; it’s woven into the fabric of the city, making it an exciting and dynamic place to live.

2. Great location and proximity to popular metros

Located within a few hours’ drive of major metropolitan areas such as Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Virginia Beach, giving residents of Richmond the best of both worlds. Additionally, Richmond is home to the Richmond International Airport, making air travel even more accessible. With its convenient location, residents can enjoy a smaller city’s charm and the easy access of larger urban areas.

3. Lively social scene

Whether you want to explore the local arts scene, celebrate the city’s history, or have a good time, something is always happening in Richmond to suit your interests. Some of the most popular events in the city include the Richmond Folk Festival, the Richmond Jazz Festival, the Richmond International Film Festival, and the annual Richmond Bacon Festival, to name a few. These festivals attract thousands of people every year, offering a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, experience new cultures, and enjoy the city’s vibrant energy.

4. Excellent culinary experience

From southern comfort food to international cuisine, Richmond has various dining options that cater to every taste and preference. In addition to its delicious food, Richmond is also home to a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries and taprooms like the Hardywood Park Craft Brewery offering unique and flavorful brews. With so much culinary creativity and innovation on display, it’s no wonder that Richmond has become a destination for foodies worldwide. So, if moving to Richmond has you hungry, you don’t want to miss trying the oysters and country ham.

5. Growing job market

Richmond is home to various leading industries like CarMax and Dominion Energy, including other leaders in finance, healthcare, education, and technology. In recent years, Richmond has seen a surge in job growth, with many new companies moving to the city and existing businesses expanding their operations. This growth has been driven in part by the city’s skilled and educated workforce, as well as its attractive business climate and low cost of living. Richmond is a great place to start or advance your career, with many job opportunities. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or a skilled tradesperson, many opportunities await you.

Cons of living in Richmond

1. Poor transportation infrastructure

Richmond has struggled with poor transportation infrastructure for many years. The city’s public transportation system, run by the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC), has long been criticized for its limited service area, irregular schedules, and outdated vehicles. Additionally, the city’s roadways are often congested, particularly during rush hour, making commuting and getting around the city a frustrating experience.

2. Nuclear power plants near the city

There are two power plants in Richmond, located in nearby Louisa County. While these plants provide a significant energy source for the region, they may be a potential drawback for some people considering living there. There are concerns about nuclear power plants’ safety, particularly in an accident or natural disaster. Additionally, some people may worry about the long-term effects of exposure to low radiation levels.

3. Hot and humid summers

During the summer months, temperatures can often reach above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with high levels of humidity that can make it feel even hotter. This can be challenging for people who are sensitive to heat, as well as for outdoor activities such as hiking or sports. Additionally, the hot and humid conditions can lead to increased levels of air pollution, which can harm people with respiratory issues. To protect yourself from the heat, learn how to heatproof your home.

4. Among the worst places for allergy sufferers

Richmond’s location in the mid-Atlantic region means it experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, including high pollen levels. According to the Allergy Capitals Report, Richmond ranked number 23 on the list for the most challenging place to live with allergies. This can be particularly challenging for people who suffer from seasonal allergies, which can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. The city’s urban environment can also exacerbate allergies, as air pollution and other environmental factors can trigger symptoms. Despite these challenges, there are steps that people can take to manage their allergies, such as avoiding triggers and seeking medical treatment.

5. Expensive education

Private institutions such as the University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University have tuition rates that can be significantly higher than the state’s public universities, as well as the national average. This can concern families with limited budgets or students looking to minimize student loan debt. However, it’s important to note that Virginia also offers various financial aid programs that can help offset the cost of education.

Is Richmond, VA a good place to live? Final thoughts

Richmond has plenty to offer those considering a move to the area. Its rich history, lively social scene, growing job market, excellent food and drink options, and prime location are all significant positives for many people. However, like any city, there are potential drawbacks, including poor transportation infrastructure, nuclear power plants, bad allergy seasons, hot and humid summers, and expensive education costs. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of living in Richmond to determine if it’s the right place for you.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

New Richmond community greenspace: Science Museum of Virginia opens ‘The Green’

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The wait is over! The Science Museum of Virginia has officially opened The Green, a former parking lot turned several-acre urban greenspace, right in the middle of the city.Featuring native trees, lighted walking paths, benches, public art and more, the Broad Street greenspace provides a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and is available for all community members to utilize.“Richmond needs more greenspace, and we’re proud to showcase examples of natural solutions to address th...

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The wait is over! The Science Museum of Virginia has officially opened The Green, a former parking lot turned several-acre urban greenspace, right in the middle of the city.

Featuring native trees, lighted walking paths, benches, public art and more, the Broad Street greenspace provides a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and is available for all community members to utilize.

“Richmond needs more greenspace, and we’re proud to showcase examples of natural solutions to address the impacts of climate change,” said museum Chief Wonder Officer Richard Conti. “We can’t wait to see guests, neighbors and community members enjoying The Green’s robust ecosystems and blooming native plants, and we look forward to watching that connection and engagement deepen as we complete the remaining work of greening our campus.”

The Green project has been in the works for more than five years and progress toward the goal began with the construction of a four-level museum parking deck and the demolition of two acres of flat surface lot where the greenspace now resides.

In addition, the greenspace aligns with the Richmond 300 development plan, which prioritizes green space for Scott’s Addition in an effort to reduce stormwater into the combined sewer system, reduce heat islands and increase the tree canopy — among other goals. The science museum says the green space will assist in mitigating the heat island effect felt in the district.

Although The Green is open to the public, the full-scale goal of the museum’s larger green space project has yet to be completed. The museum hopes to have more than 20 acres of green space surrounding the building in the next several years.

The Green is open to the public every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pets are welcome in the space, but must be on a leash.

Find 8News on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram; send your news tips to iReport8@wric.com.

Highest-rated things to do in Richmond, according to TripAdvisor

STACKER — Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated things to do in Richmond on TripAdvisor. TripAdvisor rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews.TripAdvisor#30. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts– Rating: 5.0 / 5 (3,120)– Type of activity: Art Museums– Address: 200 N Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220-4007– ...

STACKER — Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated things to do in Richmond on TripAdvisor. TripAdvisor rankings factor in the average rating and number of reviews.

TripAdvisor

#30. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

– Rating: 5.0 / 5 (3,120)– Type of activity: Art Museums– Address: 200 N Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220-4007– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#29. Maymont

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (2,066)– Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks • Farms– Address: 1700 Hampton St, Richmond, VA 23220-6899– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#28. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,612)– Type of activity: Gardens– Address: 1800 Lakeside Ave, Richmond, VA 23228-4700– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#27. Hollywood Cemetery

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,425)– Type of activity: Cemeteries– Address: not available– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#26. Virginia Capitol Building

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,077)– Type of activity: Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings– Address: 9th & Grace Sts, Richmond, VA 23219– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#25. Carytown

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,165)– Type of activity: Points of Interest & Landmarks– Address: 3166 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221-3504– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#24. White House of the Confederacy

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,262)– Type of activity: Military Museums • Speciality Museums– Address: 1201 E Clay St, Richmond, VA 23219-1615– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#23. Virginia Holocaust Museum

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (415)– Type of activity: Speciality Museums • History Museums– Address: 2000 E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23223-7032– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#22. Edgar Allan Poe Museum

– Rating: 4.0 / 5 (534)– Type of activity: Speciality Museums • Historic Sites– Address: 1914 E Main St # 16, Richmond, VA 23223-6964– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#21. St. John’s Episcopal Church

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (405)– Type of activity: Historic Sites • Churches & Cathedrals– Address: 2401 E Broad St Corner of E. Broad Street and 24th at top of Church Hill. Across from Patrick Henry Park., Richmond, VA 23223-7128– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#20. Virginia Museum of History & Culture

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (266)– Type of activity: History Museums– Address: 428 N Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220-3307– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#19. Science Museum of Virginia

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (452)– Type of activity: Science Museums– Address: 2500 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220-2057– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#18. Tredegar Iron Works

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (496)– Type of activity: History Museums– Address: 500 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219-4330– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#17. Agecroft Hall & Gardens

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (269)– Type of activity: Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens– Address: 4305 Sulgrave Rd, Richmond, VA 23221-3256– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#16. American Civil War Museum- Historic Tredegar

– Rating: 4.0 / 5 (432)– Type of activity: Military Museums • Historic Sites– Address: 480 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219-4328– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#15. James River

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (393)– Type of activity: Bodies of Water– Address: 22nd Street and Riverside Drive James River Park, Richmond, VA 23223– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#14. Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (142)– Type of activity: Historic Sites– Address: 110 1/2 E Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23219-1308– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#13. Belle Isle

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (181)– Type of activity: Bodies of Water • Parks– Address: not available– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#12. Short Pump Mall

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (173)– Type of activity: Shopping Malls– Address: 11800 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23233-1064– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#11. Canal Walk

– Rating: 4.0 / 5 (324)– Type of activity: Historic Walking Areas– Address: not available– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#10. Blue Bee Cider

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (111)– Type of activity: Wineries & Vineyards– Address: 1320 Summit Ave, Richmond, VA 23230-4710– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#9. Virginia Capital Trail

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (126)– Type of activity: Biking Trails • Jogging Paths & Tracks– Address: not available– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#8. The John Marshall House

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (69)– Type of activity: Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks– Address: 818 E Marshall St, Richmond, VA 23219-1917– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#7. Richmond Raceway

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (245)– Type of activity: Auto Racing Tracks– Address: 600 E Laburnum Ave, Richmond, VA 23222-2253– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#6. Virginia War Memorial

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (147)– Type of activity: Monuments & Statues– Address: 621 S Belvidere St, Richmond, VA 23220-6504– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#5. Library of Virginia

– Rating: 5.0 / 5 (87)– Type of activity: Libraries– Address: 800 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219-1905– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#4. Fan District

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (79)– Type of activity: Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas– Address: not available– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#3. Three Lakes Nature Center and Aquarium

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (84)– Type of activity: Nature & Wildlife Areas • Aquariums– Address: 400 Sausiluta Dr, Richmond, VA 23227-2139– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#2. The Valentine

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (141)– Type of activity: History Museums– Address: 1015 E Clay St, Richmond, VA 23219-1527– Read more on TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

#1. Richmond National Battlefield Park

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (99)– Type of activity: Battlefields– Address: 3215 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23223-7517– Read more on TripAdvisor

Inside the $2.4 Billion Plan to Redesign Richmond, Virginia

Richmond, Virginia, is nearing final approval to embark on the largest development project in its history: a $2.4 billion initiative that includes a new minor league ballpark, hotels and over 1,000 units of mixed-income housing.After the city’s planning committee unanimously recommended approval of an agreement between Richmond and its development partner for th...

Richmond, Virginia, is nearing final approval to embark on the largest development project in its history: a $2.4 billion initiative that includes a new minor league ballpark, hotels and over 1,000 units of mixed-income housing.

After the city’s planning committee unanimously recommended approval of an agreement between Richmond and its development partner for the project, RVA Diamond Partners, the deal now hinges on a city council vote taking place Monday evening.

Richmond officials say the development, which will be located in the city’s Diamond District, has the potential to revitalize its North Side, deliver a net benefit of approximately $1.1 billion over the 45 year lifespan of the project and secure the future of the Richmond Flying Squirrels’ — a Minor League Baseball affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.

“For years to come this project will bring revenue into the city so that we can continue to invest in our schools and mental health services, and repair our infrastructure,” said Levar Stoney, Richmond’s mayor, in a telephone interview. “It’s not just about building a ballpark, it’s about building an entire neighborhood.”

However, with the city council vote looming and an imminent deadline set by Major League Baseball to complete structural improvements to aging facilities, questions remain about the economic impact and the public dollars required.

Just two weeks before the city council vote, Richmond officials announced amendments to the financing proposal, citing rising interest rates. The announcement brought into question claims made by the city that the project would be entirely self-financed and raised concerns about whether revenues generated within the proposed special taxing district will be enough to cover debt service payments.

Under the new proposal, Richmond intends to cover the costs of infrastructure improvements, an expense the developer had previously agreed to pay for.

“In conjunction with the rapid rise in interest rates, we’ve had to work closely with the city to underwrite a project that meets their goals for affordable housing, a high-quality public park, a new mixed-use development and of course an MLB-compliant ballpark,” said Jason Guillot Principal at Thalhimer Realty Partners, one of the firms that is part of the consortium that makes up RVA Diamond Partners. “Our modified financing structure has the effect of producing tax-exempt bond proceeds, which substantially lowers the annual debt service to the city as compared to higher-interest taxable bonds.”

Further, Richmond is expecting to issue roughly $23 million of capital improvement plan general obligation bonds and expand the special taxing district to include adjacent properties to cover the costs of the project.

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Adding to a growing chorus of criticism, the city has yet to release a third-party analysis of the financing plan, a point of contention for financial consultant John Gerner, who served as vice chairman of the Richmond City Council-appointed Navy Hill Development Advisory Commission four years ago. The Navy Hill project, a defunct proposal to replace the Richmond Coliseum — a now abandoned sports and entertainment arena — had a similar financing structure.

“At best, the Diamond District plan presents an opportunity cost and at worst the city’s going to end up having to pay for a substantial amount directly out of its general fund,” Gerner said.

But Richmond officials have not been afforded the luxury of time to wait for a third-party analysis.

The city is facing a 2025 deadline set by MLB to provide the Richmond Flying Squirrels an upgraded ballpark or risk losing its affiliation with the San Francisco Giants. Under the proposal, the stadium won’t open until 2026 at the earliest. Plus, Flying Squirrels owner Lou DiBella has expressed skepticism about the team’s future in Richmond.

DiBella did not respond to requests for an interview.

Richmond has learned from its Navy Hill failure, Mayor Stoney said, and he is confident that the city council will pass the resolution.

“The Navy Hill project failed for a number of reasons, politics being at the center of it,” Stoney said. “We took those lessons seriously when we constructed the Diamond District deal, and on Monday, we will find approval.”

(Updates with comments from Thalhimer Realty in the seventh paragraph.)

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