Combating Sprawl
Richmond is very protective of its landscape and takes great pride in the preservation of natural areas. While many metropolitan areas are defined by cookie-cutter suburbs, strip malls, and traffic jams, Richmond has worked to limit sprawl. Smart growth opportunities are characterized by key adaptive reuse projects in the central core of the city and along the riverfront. Tax abatement programs propel renovation in residential areas. Plus, the city has a master plan that demonstrates a planned approach to development.