Looking for advice on Richmond neighborhoods (Floyd: houses, school district, living)

[panative]

Hello,

My family and I are relocating to the Richmond area this year and I'd like to try to obtain some advice on the neighborhoods.

Our number one priority is finding a "walkable" community, where we could easily (and safely) walk to a library, restaurant, playground/park, etc... A good school district would be nice, but as our daughter is only 11 months old, it isn't an absolute necessity.

We would like a real community feel with plenty of young children, a yard, etc.

Any suggestions?

[susan682]

The Fan! It's quite urban (historic row houses with parks, restarants, galleries interspersed) , and if you live west of Allen St. and on or North of Monument Ave., it is safe. Some people may tell you otherwise, but I lived there for 5 years and never had an incident. I miss it terribly! There are always people out jogging, walking the dog, etc. Some streets which I particularly liked are: West Ave., Floyd Ave., Grove Ave. Close to the VCU campus are mostly students living on these streets but once you get to about 3/4 mi away, it's almost all families.
I am not so sure about the quality of Richmond City Schools but there are plenty of very good private schools in the city.
You may have a little more difficulty finding a huge backyard but I think it's better than the alternative- the cookie cutter suburbs. Can't walk anywhere!
Good luck!