RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Construction crews began tearing down the concrete wall around Kanawha Plaza today clearing the way for improvements.
“We want this to be a place where workers can come to in the middle of the day for lunches, to relax,” says Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones.
The Mayor admits the park has long been neglected. Overgrown weeds line the brick paths, The fountain which is supposed to be focal point is crumbling and filled with dirty water.
While the plaza is surrounded by several large businesses, it’s become a resting spot for the homeless.
Most downtown workers don’t stop in the park.
Chris Jameson who works nearby says, “It’s a walk through. There’s not currently a lot good places to sit and eat.”
The renovations include a stage, fountain repairs, landscaping and lots of programming.
“That means the food trucks, the food truck courts, the concerts, daily activities, exercise, explains John Sydnor the Executive Director for Enrichmond Foundation.
Those working nearby like the renovations. “The plans a nice plan. It’s exciting it is getting revamped,” says Jameson.
As for the homeless, they’ll have to pack up their stuff stashed in park trees.
Mayor Jones says, “This is a place that is not designed for that population.”
8News has been told the city is working with social services to accommodate the homeless.
City officials had once hoped to complete the renovations at Kanawha Plaza by the start of the UCI Road World Cycling Championships in September but with less than 50 days left, they admit that’s a tall order.
“We are not sure whether it will get completely done before the race but it will be improved,” explains the Mayor.
Realistically, project coordinators say expect a new path, sans weeds.
The project is costing 6 million dollars. The City is contributing 1 million. The rest will come from corporate sponsors.
