We’re so excited to welcome you to the official website for the Amelia Street Urban Forest—a growing greenspace in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, where community, education, accessibility and native ecology come together.

Tucked behind Amelia Street School, this special space is more than just a patch of trees and pollinator plants—it’s a living classroom, a neighborhood oasis, and a symbol of what’s possible when people come together to care for the land and each other.

🌱 How It Started

The idea for the Urban Forest began with a simple observation: that the land behind Amelia Street School had the potential to be so much more. Over the past several years, VCU Sustainability has played a crucial role in maintaining and caring for this space, quietly stewarding it on behalf of the community and the school. Their dedication laid the groundwork for everything that’s coming next.

Now, with support from the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, the space is set to undergo an exciting transformation—installing native plantings and green infrastructure that will support biodiversity, manage stormwater, and offer hands-on learning opportunities for students.

Construction is expected to begin in January 2026, and we’re working now to build the foundation of a vibrant, community-supported greenspace before the first shovel hits the soil.

🌳 Why It Matters

Green spaces like this one make a big impact. They:

  • Support local pollinators and wildlife
  • Provide a calming, restorative environment for students and neighbors
  • Offer outdoor learning opportunities
  • Help reduce runoff and improve water quality
  • Strengthen community connections through shared stewardship

And with no current PTA at the school, we see this as a vital opportunity to step in with support—through a growing network of neighbors, volunteers, and local partners who care deeply about this space and what it represents.

🌼 How You Can Get Involved

We’re in the early stages of forming a “Friends of Amelia Street Urban Forest” group—a volunteer-driven initiative to help care for the space and support the school in using it to its full potential.

Whether you’re interested in planting, planning, fundraising, or simply spending time in nature with others who care, there’s a place for you here.

Stay tuned for updates on events, volunteer opportunities, and progress as we grow together.

💬 Let’s Stay Connected

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re a neighbor, educator, student, or nature enthusiast—this space is for you.
You can reach us at ameliastreeturbanforest@gmail.com, and don’t forget to follow us on social media for the latest news and photos.

Thanks for being part of the beginning – the roots of this community are already growing strong.

With gratitude,
The Amelia Street Urban Forest Team