New Path at Manchester Climbing Wall
This spring, with a $14,000 grant awarded to Groundwork RVA from the National Park Service, work will begin on a dedicated path connecting the Floodwall to the T. Potterfield Memorial Bridge. This path will divert traffic from the climbing area to provide a safer experience for both climbers and those who are just “passing though.”
Be on the Lookout for Crime
In February a vandal, or vandals, pried off covers and removed the LED elements from over 90 lights fixtures on the T. Potterfield Memorial Bridge. Repairs are estimated to cost close to $20,000. No one has been charged and no witnesses have come forward.
Spring Time is Budget Time and the JRPS Could Use Your Help
In 2017, the James River Park System had over 1.7 million visitors. This is greater number of visitors than any other park in Richmond. It is estimated that about 40% of our visitors are Richmond residents and 60% come from the surrounding counties and beyond; each visitor spends an average of $23.90 with Richmond businesses during each visit.
New Group Tackles Pump House Restoration
Have you thought about how cool it would be to have regular access to the Pump House? The stately old structure has seen better days, and will again thanks to a new group dedicated exclusively to the revitalization of the Pump House.
A Conversation with Nathan Burrell
Held 20 feet up, Views from the Treehouse is Richmond Outside’s latest creation. The multi-episode video series features conversations with RVA’s outdoor leaders and most recently featured an hour-long conversation with Park superintendent Nathan Burrell.
Invasive Species Awareness Week Improves Park Experience
Members of the JRPS Invasive Plant Task Force, along with local business and volunteer groups, worked throughout the Park to mitigate the impact of invasive species. Activities included species identification instruction, watching goats munch, botanist-guided nature walks and hands-on plant removal.
Maggie and Walker are back!
Richmond’s favorite osprey couple has returned and the FOJRP is proud to sponsor the RVA Osprey Camera, a project by Richmond Outside, again this year.
Salamanders Migrating
Every year an early March warm spell creates the perfect conditions for the Yellow Spotted Salamander migration at the James River Park. When daytime temperatures are about 60 degrees and there is a heavy rain the salamanders stir into action. That evening they trek toward their breeding site in a vernal pool near Pony Pasture.
Friends Announces Lead Gift for Park Master Plan
The Board of Directors of the FOJRP is pleased to announce it has made a $50,000 lead gift in support of the development of a long-range James River Park Master Plan. The total cost of the plan will be $250,000 and it will be developed in partnership with the consulting firms of VHB and Hargreaves once funding has been secured.
Get Healthy in the Outdoors
The number one benefit of outdoor activity is stress reduction and the James River Park has so much to offer. Come check us out!