Since Macdonald Avenue’s heyday during World War II, when workers from Richmond’s Kaiser shipyards filled the streets and sidewalks, the street has reflected the common patterns of American downtowns.  Many businesses have struggled to maintain economic viability in a climate of shifting commercial development and shopping patterns.  Yet the vital corridor that hosts scores of shops, restaurants, public services, and entertainment venues during World War II is still alive in many resident’s memories and is an important component of our nations’ newest national park-the Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historic Park.

The Richmond Redevelopment Agency has undertaken a collaborative planning process to develop a community-driven strategy for revitalizing Macdonald Avenue, Richmond’s historic “Main Street.”

Macdonald Avenue played a central role in Richmond’s past and is a critical component of the City’s vibrant future.  Using information from many recent and concurrent community improvement efforts, the City of Richmond is seeking broad community input on revitalizing the economic and community health of Macdonald Avenue.

Working with an appointed advisory committee that represents a wide cross section of stakeholders in this effort, the Richmond Redevelopment Agency has scheduled two community workshops over the next three months.  Each meeting will provide an opportunity to update the community on this project and to gain ideas and suggestions for the revitalizing plan.

Community Workshops for Revitalizing Macdonald Avenue scheduled for:

Thursday, May 8, 2003 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Nevin Community Center, 589 Nevin Avenue. 

Saturday, June 21, 2003 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The Bermuda Room, Richmond Auditorium.

Refreshments and childcare will be provided.  For more information contact Marcia Vallier, Vallier Design Associates at 510-237-7745 or Tim Hurley, BMS Design Group at 415-249-0130.