The James River Association has a vision of a fully healthy James River supporting thriving communities. We work to achieve that vision by protecting the James and connecting people to it. Increasing river access and riverside spaces for people to enjoy is an important way to connect communities to the river.
Numerous projects intended to improve public access to the James River and its tributaries are planned or now underway across the James River basin, particularly in the Richmond region. Plans are currently being finalized for a public access project along Turkey Island Creek in eastern Henrico County. Other projects creating new opportunities to enjoy the James and its tributaries in the region include the Hopewell Riverwalk, Universal Access at Huguenot Flatwater, and Tuckahoe Creek Park.
Hopewell Riverwalk
If you haven’t visited the Hopewell Riverwalk, do yourself a favor and make a trip to Hopewell. The first phase of the Hopewell Riverwalk project, which is accessible via City Park and cost $615,000, opened earlier this year and offers views of the Appomattox River. The second phase of the project recently received a green light from Hopewell’s City Council and will connect the existing boardwalk to Hopewell City Marina when complete. The second phase of the project is funded by a grant from the Virginia Recreational Trails Program.
Universal Access at Huguenot Flatwater
Improving access to the James River within Richmond’s James River Park System is a priority of one of the James River Association’s partners, the James River Outdoor Coalition (JROC). JROC is spearheading an effort to replace the existing canoe slide at Huguenot Flatwater with a universally accessible ramp. When complete, the universal access project will allow people of all abilities to easily launch a paddlecraft and enjoy the James. The project is funded by a combination of support from the City of Richmond, grants, and donations.
Tuckahoe Creek Park
The first phase of Tuckahoe Creek Park, a boardwalk providing access to Tuckahoe Creek in western Henrico County, opened in 2016. The park offers opportunities for walking, fishing, and viewing wildlife. The second phase of the project, which features an expansion of the existing boardwalk and a parking area, is supported by the 2016 bond referendum. Construction is anticipated to begin in the not too distant future.
If you would like to help the James River Association advocate for a healthy and accessible James River, join our RiverReps Program by attending a future training session.