On September 28, 2026, City Council approved Richmond INSPIRE as an amendment to Richmond 300, establishing the City’s first modern, comprehensive, systemwide master plan for parks, recreation, open space, and community facilities. Led by PRCF with Design Workshop and City partners, the plan was shaped by extensive community engagement and reflects the experiences, priorities, and vision shared by residents and community partners throughout the planning process. With the plan now adopted, PRCF is transitioning to implementation and working to finalize a public facing Implementation Dashboard that will track progress and promote transparency and accountability. The dashboard is anticipated to launch before the end of the year and will provide an ongoing resource for residents to follow implementation and stay informed about the future of Richmond’s parks and recreation system.

Richmond INSPIRE is the City of Richmond’s comprehensive 10-year plan and long-term vision for parks, greenways, community centers, natural areas, and recreation. Shaped by community input, the plan provides a roadmap for improving existing parks and facilities, expanding access and recreation opportunities, and guiding future investment. Explore the adopted plan to learn about Richmond’s vision for parks and recreation, priority projects for the next 10 years, and the strategies and actions that will guide implementation.

Since the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities began the planning process in winter 2024, Richmond INSPIRE has been described as the first master plan for the park system since the 1970s. The document from that era was less a comprehensive master plan and more an inventory of park facilities and amenities.

It’s an interesting snapshot of the park system 50 years ago, when many parks featured roller skating areas and other unique amenities such as funnel ball, buck-about, and saddle mates.