Richmond Riverfront Improvements

This project consists of several components to enhance the Richmond Riverfront. The project’s main aspect is the adaptive re-use of an existing bridge structure over a former hydroelectric dam — 20 feet above a river — to create a pedestrian walkway and connectivity to park space on Brown’s Island.

Making the James River more accessible, the bridge project represents the first complete “dream” of the City’s overall Riverfront Plan. The 1,600-foot-long pedestrian and cycling pathway was partially built by using existing concrete piers and steel infrastructure in the river. The wheelchair-accessible bridge, linking Brown’s Island with Manchester, is proposed to be open 24 hours a day.

The new T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge is named for the late T. Tyler Potterfield, a senior planner in Richmond’s Department of Planning and Development Review who contributed to the development and adoption of the Riverfront Plan. Potterfield first began work in Richmond in 1991 and later served as secretary to both the Commission of Architectural Review and the Urban Design Committee.

Mayor Dwight C. Jones and other officials dedicated the bridge in December 2016. Shockey served as construction manager at risk for the award-winning project.