Richmond New Builds Lag, Waitlists Hit 9 Months
Slowdown in Construction Projects Economic optimism in Richmond is taking a hit as construction slowdowns reveal vulnerabilities in local development. Delays are rampant on the Richmond Peninsula, with projects facing significant roadblocks. The ongoing issues in Richmond mirror Orlando's housing permit decline , where developers face construction cost challenges and local policy delays. Resident opposition is a major factor, significantly hindering progress. Concerns about building height, parking, and traffic lead to drawn-out discussions and deferred approvals. For instance, the Westhampton Pastry Shop redevelopment faced repeated setbacks before finally getting city council approval in 2025. Phased property acquisitions by VDOT along Richmond Highway add to these delays, complicating project schedules. VDOT's ongoing efforts to improve safety and design , including the redesigning of intersections, play a pivotal role in prolonging timelines, which further impacts the progr...