Two Richmond Public Library branches will receive green infrastructure upgrades this year as part of the Greening Richmond Public Libraries initiative. Improvements are planned for the Belmont Branch, located at 3100 Ellwood Ave., and the Hull Street Branch, at 1400 Hull St., to enhance sustainability and manage stormwater runoff.

Residents are encouraged to provide input during public meetings later this month. The Hull Street Branch meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, and the Belmont Branch meeting will be held Wednesday, Jan. 29. Feedback collected at these meetings, as well as through online and in-branch questionnaires, will shape the final plans for the library grounds.

“We are incredibly excited to be expanding the Greening Richmond Public Libraries initiative to the Belmont and Hull Street branches,” said Scott Firestine,Richmond Public Library director.

“By incorporating green infrastructure practices like rain gardens and native plantings, we are not only enhancing the beauty and sustainability of these valuable community spaces, but also contributing to a healthier and more resilient Richmond.”

The initiative seeks to reduce polluted stormwater runoff from hard surfaces that flows into the James River and its tributaries.

“Stormwater runoff … can carry pollution to the James River and its tributaries,” said Justin Doyle, director of community conservation with the James River Association. “Trees, conservation landscaping, and rain gardens installed at Richmond Public Library branches help reduce the amount of polluted stormwater runoff flowing into the James while strengthening the resilience of communities in the face of a changing climate.”

Launched in 2019, the Greening Richmond Public Libraries initiative has implemented green infrastructure site plans at several branches, including Westover Hills, Broad Rock, East End, North Avenue, and West End. These plans have incorporated elements such as trees, conservation landscaping and rain gardens to manage stormwater and improve community spaces.

In addition to the upcoming projects, the James River Association is seeking volunteers to help implement a green infrastructure plan at the Ginter Park Branch Library, located at 1200 Westbrook Ave., this spring. Volunteers will assist with planting trees, shrubs and perennials. For more information, visit the thejamesriver.org.