Rodgers named Richmond’s economic development director
Free Press staff report
Angie Rodgers has been named Richmond’s new director of economic development, city officials announced this week. Rodgers comes to Richmond from Prince George’s County, Maryland, where she spent the last five years as the deputy chief administrative officer for economic development. In that role, she oversaw 10 county agencies, including those responsible for neighborhood revitalization, business retention and attraction, small-business support, lending and incentives, tourism and workforce development.
“Angie brings decades of experience in community-building and economic development,” said Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II.
Rodgers previously served as chief of staff for the deputy mayor for planning and economic development in Washington, D.C., where she managed budget, policy and operations for an 85-person agency involved in real estate and business development, as well as revenue bond activities.
“I look forward to doing my part to create a thriving, equitable business landscape that benefits all Richmonders and am grateful for the opportunity to do so,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers will begin her new role on Aug. 4. Her appointment follows the recent resignation of Sheila White, Richmond’s finance director, who is set to leave the administration on July 25.
Henrico schools offer free immunization clinics
Free Press staff report
Rising seventh- and 12th-grade students in Henrico County Public Schools can receive required immunizations at no cost during four clinics scheduled in August.
The clinics are being held in partnership with the Virginia Department of Health’s Richmond and Henrico Health Districts. Students entering seventh or 12th grade can receive the Tdap, MenACWY and HPV vaccines, which are required for school attendance in Virginia. The clinics are open to all HCPS students in those grades, regardless of insurance status.
The MenACWY vaccine is required for students entering both seventh and 12th grades. The Tdap vaccine is required for those entering seventh grade and can be given to students ages 11 or older. The HPV vaccine is also available to students 11 and older, though parents may opt out at their discretion.
The clinics will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Aug. 6 at Fairfield Middle School, 5121 Nine Mile Road; Aug. 7 at Elko Middle School, 9501 Elko Road; Aug. 12 at Quioccasin Middle School, 9400 Quioccasin Road; and Aug. 13 at Henrico High School, 302 Azalea Ave.
Registration is encouraged but not required. Walk-ins will be accepted based on vaccine availability. Students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and should bring an insurance card if available. A photo ID is also required for parents and guardians, along with a completed consent form for each student. Forms can be filled out on-site or downloaded in advance at henricoschools.us/health.
More information is available at vddh.virginia.gov/immunization.
City seeks public input on Hull Street bridge replacement project
Free Press staff report
The City of Richmond is inviting residents to weigh in on plans to replace the Hull Street bridge over the Manchester Canal, with a public meeting scheduled for Aug. 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Main Street Station.
The bridge replacement project aims to modernize critical infrastructure while maintaining connectivity between the Manchester and South Richmond communities. City officials say the aging bridge requires replacement to ensure public safety and accommodate future traffic needs.
“This project is critical for ensuring safe, modern infrastructure while preserving connectivity for the Manchester and South Richmond communities,” according to the city’s announcement. At the meeting, residents will have the opportunity to review proposed plans and design options, speak directly with the project manager and consulting team, and provide feedback that could influence the final design.
The meeting will be held at Main Street Station, located at 1500 East Main Street. Those unable to attend the meeting at Main Street Station, 1500 E. Main St.,can still submit comments through Aug.14 by emailing Thomas Westbrook at Thomas. Westbrook@rva.gov or mailing them to Thomas Westbrook, 900 E. Broad St., 6th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219. Comments should include “UPC 113920 – Hull Street over Manchester Canal Bridge Project” in the subject line.
For more information about the Department of Public Works, visit rva.gov/public-works.
