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Often times, government (fed, state, local) has the biggest influence on development, growth, etc.
IMO VA and metro Richmond local laws, unless modified, guarantee more of the same. We will have a continuity of our current trajectory.
That is, a focus on cannibalization of existing/established developments for new, far flung suburban sprawl (none connected by mass transit). I don't think the region's pie gets much bigger - it just gets resliced so that some get bigger chunks than others.
Hopefully, City of Richmond may not decline further but may stabilize. No long hoped for renaissance of the city, though - not in VA with current independent city/county laws.
Portions of Henrico may take on the role Richmond played in the past few decades - as flight flees further out or to new areas and the western portion of the Henrico contributes to Goochland's growth. Who would've though, in the 1980's, Regency Square mall would be where it is today?
Same w/ Chesterfield spawning growth and popularity of Powhatan.
The "game changers" that may alter this outward push are the governments (fed, state, local).
Petersburg/Tri-cities' future has been dramatically altered by BRAC mandates to expand Ft. Lee. Best of luck to that area that has long suffered (& most conveniently forget is a part of metro Richmond). It is possible that area may be headed on a path to greater regional influence and power.
Pretty sure some areas will benefit from "logical" growth.
Spotsylvania, Caroline, Hanover along I-95 will likely benefit from the merging of DC/Fredericksburg suburbs & Richmond metro.
New Kent along I-64 will benefit.
Some I-85 areas may see growth from Ft. Lee.
If the talk of improved rail service becomes reality other localities along the rail line may see growth.
Again, that's government being the catalyst. I'm sure there will also be some companies or private businesses that will spark change too - but not like government. Will be interesting to see how Chesterfield's aspirations for sports parks & other regional attractions work out - long term. And how Eastern Henrico does (or does not) grow. Internet shopping & the new generation may decrease the demand for mega malls like Short Pump.
If we are still attending events in the Colesium in 2030…we’re in trouble!
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