The Amelia Street Urban Forest is a developing greenspace located behind Amelia Street School in the heart of Richmond, Virginia. What began as an underutilized patch of land is growing into a vibrant outdoor space rooted in community, education, and environmental stewardship.

This project was inspired by a vision of what this space could be—a living classroom for students, a haven for native plants and pollinators, and a peaceful gathering place for neighbors. Thanks to the ongoing care from VCU Sustainability and the upcoming restoration work led by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, this space is being thoughtfully transformed into something truly special.

With construction beginning in January 2026, the Amelia Street Urban Forest will include:

• Accessible trails to invite exploration and ensure that everyone—regardless of age or ability—can enjoy the space

• Native plantings and pollinator habitats that support local ecology

• Green infrastructure and stormwater management features designed to reduce runoff and improve the health of the James River and our watershed

• Outdoor learning zones to bring hands-on environmental education to life for students

Recognizing that Amelia Street School currently doesn’t have a PTA, community members came together to form the Friends of Amelia Street Urban Forest—a group dedicated to supporting the long-term care and success of the space. From planting and maintenance to fundraising and programming, this grassroots effort is driven by neighbors, educators, and volunteers who believe in the power of green spaces to bring people together.

The Amelia Street Urban Forest is a work in progress—and that’s the beauty of it. We’re planting more than just trees; we’re planting a vision of a greener, more connected future for all.

Let us know if you’d like to be part of the journey. Everyone is welcome here.