Summary

UDC recommends conditional approval of Mayo Bridge replacement (UDC 2026-01)

RichmondJan 15, 20263 min read

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Urban Design Committee met January 15, 2026 (9 present, 2 absent) and reviewed UDC 2026-01, a Location, Character, Extent concept for the proposed replacement of the Mayo Bridge between Manchester Road and Dock Street. The Committee recommended approval with conditions to the Planning Commission (return due 2026-01-20) and reviewed the Urban Design Guidelines update schedule.

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Urban Design Committee

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TransportationEnvironmental

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Key decisions

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UDC recommended approval, with conditions, of UDC 2026-01 (concept review of the proposed replacement of Mayo Bridge) to the Planning Commission; item due back 2026-01-20.
Condition 1: Revise FINAL plans to show how pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle lanes connect north and south of the bridge to existing transportation networks and to the adjacent Richmond Slave Trail; include low-height, high-contrast visible barriers for protected bike lanes.
Condition 2: Revise FINAL plans to provide sidewalks of the same width on both sides of the bridge.
Condition 3: Provide a rendered elevation of the bridge cross section at FINAL review.
Condition 4: Provide updated plans for Mayo Island Park at FINAL review.
Condition 5: Provide an updated community survey at FINAL review.
Condition 6: Explore outdoor lighting details that are sensitive to light pollution or dark‑skies compliant where applicable.
Condition 7: Explore inclusion of permeable hardscape materials and sustainable stormwater features as suggested by the Urban Design Guidelines.
Condition 8: Explore inclusion of public art where feasible.
Condition 9: Explore spacing and integration of lighting fixtures into the architectural design.
Condition 10: Explore making railings more permeable to allow visibility of the river.
Condition 11: Explore the use of plantings on the bridge.
Condition 12: Explore adding additional safety measures to the pedestrian crossings on the island.

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Urban Design Committee

Jan 15, 2026, 12:00 AM5th Floor Conference Room of City Hallscheduled

Agenda

Call to Order
To access the meeting via Microsoft Teams, please use the following link: https://tinyurl.com/hfwyw98m or dial *67-804-316-9457 and enter ID: 742 420 550#. Public comment will be requested in turn for each item on the agenda. Please stay on mute during other times to reduce background noise. If using a phone to access the meeting, you can use *6 to mute and un-mute.
Roll Call
Approval of Minutes
A high level summary statement will be provided before voting on a final motion for each individual item. The summary statement will be transmitted to the Planning Commission along with the Motion outcome; and be recorded as minutes for the record.
Secretary’s Report
Scope of Review Reminder 17.07 General Location, Character, Extent Approval of public buildings, structures, streets, parks, etc. - Items of a specific nature that are designed by professionals, such as engineers or architects, are not considered general. 17.05 UDC may make recommendations on the specific design of public structures, appurtenances, and street fixtures.
Consideration of Continuances and Deletions from Agenda
CONSENT AGENDA
REGULAR AGENDA
UDC 2026-01 CONCEPT Location, Character, Extent review of the proposed replacement of Mayo Bridge, located between Manchester Road and Dock Street.
OTHER BUSINESS
Urban Design Guidelines Update - Schedule
Adjournment

UDC recommends conditional approval of Mayo Bridge replacement (UDC 2026-01)

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