Urban Tell reports on community water conservation and accessible garden projects

On July 31, 2025, the Richmond Rising Collaborative Stakeholder Committee convened to discuss several community-focused initiatives aimed at enhancing local sustainability and health. The meeting highlighted ongoing projects, recruitment efforts, and future plans that are set to impact the Richmond community significantly.

One of the key discussions centered around the recruitment of new committee members. The committee is actively seeking individuals from the community who are interested in participating in its efforts. This initiative aims to foster greater community involvement and ensure diverse representation in decision-making processes.

Urban Tell presented an update on a water conservation project that has already saved approximately 43,000 gallons of water annually. The project focuses on educating residents about efficient water use and includes the installation of five water conservation systems in the Iron Triangle area. With a current expenditure of $287,000 and a remaining budget of $1.3 million, Urban Tell plans to continue community engagement and training programs in the coming weeks.

Another significant project discussed was the development of an accessible garden on 16th Street and Ohio, designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. The project has a budget of $930,000, with $861,000 remaining. The committee is excited about the progress made, including site selection and ongoing design work with architects and contractors.

The meeting also covered the Orchard for All initiative, which has distributed 672 pounds of fruit and provided a six-week training program for participants. With expenditures of $173,000 and a remaining budget of $994,000, the program aims to continue its training and tree distribution efforts.

Additionally, the VegiRX project, in collaboration with Life Long Medical, focuses on providing fresh fruits and vegetables to patients through a prescription program. The committee reported on workshops held for the Coronado community and the upcoming graduation of the third group of Climate Health Promoters on July 12, which is anticipated to be a significant milestone.

Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing community health and sustainability through various projects. As these initiatives progress, the Richmond Rising Collaborative Stakeholder Committee aims to keep the community informed and engaged, ensuring that local voices are heard in shaping the future of Richmond.