Guest Commentary by Richmond Mayor Danny Avula and ChamberRVA President and CEO Brian D. Anderson
Richmond’s combined sewer system, much of it built more than a century ago, is one of the oldest in the nation. During major storms, this system can release untreated wastewater into the James River—a vital environmental and economic resource for Virginia. Modernizing this infrastructure is essential to protecting public health, complying with state law, and preserving the river for generations to come.
That is why we are deeply grateful to leaders in both chambers for their newly proposed $50 million investment in this critical work.
Lt. Governor Hashmi worked alongside us on this issue for years and introduced the original Senate amendment before leaving that chamber. Senator Jones has carried it forward. Delegate Carr has fought to protect the James throughout her time in the House and worked this year to ensure state investment to build more modern infrastructure. Their leadership reflects a clear recognition that resilient infrastructure in the capital region benefits every corner of the commonwealth.
When the General Assembly passed legislation in 2020 accelerating Combined Sewer Overflow improvements statewide, it set an ambitious but necessary goal. Richmond stands ready to meet that obligation, and to do so in partnership with the commonwealth. These investments ensure modernization moves forward responsibly and sustainably in the most cost-effective way for ratepayers while safeguarding the systems employers, investors, and families rely on every day.
The James River is an environmental and economic treasure that belongs to all Virginians. It stretches 340 miles from the Appalachian Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, with a watershed covering approximately 10,000 square miles across 39 counties and 19 cities and towns. The James supports outdoor recreation, tourism, small business growth, and riverfront development across central Virginia. In Richmond alone, the James draws more than two million visitors each year. Preventing a crisis like what is playing out in the Potomac River right now and protecting the James is both an environmental responsibility and an economic imperative.
Since 1990, Richmond has invested close to $200 million in city funds to improve its combined sewer system. State support will allow us to continue this work on schedule.
Reliable water infrastructure powers state government, major employers, health care institutions, manufacturers, universities, and small businesses. Investing in it is investing in Virginia’s economic engine.
The wide range of regional partners standing behind this work — from conservation groups and recreation associations to small businesses and tourism leaders — is a powerful reflection of how deeply our community values the James River.
Infrastructure rarely makes headlines, but it is foundational. At a time of federal uncertainty and competing priorities, the willingness to invest in essential infrastructure speaks to a shared understanding of what it takes to keep our commonwealth strong. That partnership matters, and we do not take it for granted.
Together, we can ensure that the James River and the systems that protect it remain sources of strength, pride, and prosperity for generations to come.
Danny TK Avula is Richmond’s 81st Mayor. Mayor Avula is a physician and public health leader who has dedicated his career to building healthy and thriving communities.
Brian D. Anderson serves as President & CEO of ChamberRVA. A veteran business and civic leader with experience in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, he is committed to advancing economic opportunity across the Richmond region.
