Richmond Business & Commercial News

Who would want to live in the city?

According to the US Census Bureau, over 200,000 people would...that's who!  The estimated population within the Richmond city limits for 2007 is 200,123.  (source:  Michael Paul Williams' column in this morning's RTD)

That's big news considering that the numbers had been on a downward trend for quite some time, and the last time it was above 200,000 was more than a decade ago.

There is certainly a movement of urban living, and we are seeing that not only in the movement back to Richmond City but also in the mixed-use developments popping up in the surrounding counties (i.e., West Broad Village).  The rise in gas prices and environmental concerns are only helping to fuel the movement back to more urban-style lifestyles.

There is a website, Walk Score, that I came across some time ago that jumped to mind when I was thinking about how people are trending towards more walkable lifestyles.  I ran a few addresses through their system to get the Walk Score.  The first one is our office in the Museum District, the others are houses or apartments that we manage (and that are currently available for rent).

• Bandazian & Holden office, 604 North Sheppard Street -- Walk Score 78 out of 100
• 1809 Lakeview Avenue (near Byrd Park/Hollywood Cemetary/VCU) -- Walk Score 65
• 16 N 18th Street #3 (Shockoe Bottom) -- Walk Score 86
• 2002 Cedar Street (Church Hill) -- Walk Score 78

For years people have loved to live in the city for all the conveniences of walking to their favorite bars and restaurants, and the ability to stroll over to festivals in the warmer months.  Now, it seems as though the numbers are supporting the anecdotes.  What are your favorite reasons for living in the city?  What is the Walk Score for your neighborhood?

What do you know about New Urbanism?

I know New Urbanism isn't a brand new mode of thought, but I just came across a great resource with lots of articles and case-studies on it.  I'll be diving in and learning all I can, since I've always been a little murky on the details.  Expect to see more references to New Urbanism in future posts, and while your waiting check out the "Field Guide to New Urbanism".  (I think this link is open to the public.  If you can't access it, let me know and I'll figure something out.)

New Urbanism combines traditional planning and modern technology to create places that break the conventional suburban mold to strive for environmental balance, social integration and a sense of community amongst a mixture of ethnic groups. Find out if this process of reintegrating the components of modern life is popular with homebuyers, planners, government officials, architects, developers, builders and the real estate community.

I would love to hear your thoughts and views on New Urbanism, as well as any links you would care to share with everyone!