Richmond’s next big addition is one step closer to reality as Capital Region Land Conservancy and the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation have finalized drafting the conservation easement for Mayo‘s Island. The City of Richmond Planning Commission will vote on the document at its July 15 meeting before making its way to the Richmond City Council for vote on July 28. Co-held by CRLC and VDCR, the easement will permanently protect the 14.5-acre site in the James River that is on course to become the city’s newest public park.

Envisioned for over 40 years, the City of Richmond’s 1983 Master Plan first noted, “the conversion of Mayo‘s Island into public open space is recommended due to its accessibility by City residents, including the handicapped, the availability of excellent fishing opportunities, and the potential for boating access.” Subsequent plans such as the 2012 Riverfront Plan have continued to highlight the site as an important property to acquire for public use. 

From 2021 to today, CRLC has worked diligently to make Mayo‘s Island a reality for the community by partnering on this historic effort and raising the necessary funds to purchase the land from its private owners and protect it in perpetuity.

Now part of the James River Park System, the property connecting Shockoe Bottom and Manchester is being redesigned from a parking lot to public park under the leadership of the City of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities and Marvel Designs. Conceptional designs (pictured) show a striking transition from a mostly hard surface space to one abloom with native plantings, public use amenities, trails, and wildlife habitats. 

Read more about the Mayo Island Park project and see the conceptual plan via a May 15, 2025 article in The Richmonder. Mayo Island Park is scheduled to open in October 2026.