Richmond homeowners are fighting VMFA's 12,000-square-foot warehouse plan
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The side of the construction fence, which is the length of about 10 houses, on Sheppard. Photo: Sabrina Moreno/Axios
A fight is brewing between the VMFA and Richmond residents who don't want the museum to build an art storage facility in their backyards.
Why it matters: It's yet another representation of how homeowners are feeling left out of development decisions that could impact them, similar to the nationwide pushback to data centers.
The big picture: City officials say the VMFA has the right to build a 12,000-square-foot warehouse in the parking lot between Sheppard Street and Colonial Avenue because they own the space, reports The Richmonder.
- And since the facility would be an extension of the museum, as part of a bigger expansion project, the plan is allowed under current zoning laws and doesn't require special approval from the city.
Yes, but: That hasn't stopped resident Thomas Courtney from sending the state-owned VMFA's reps a cease-and-desist letter.
- Geena Reese, another neighbor, called the would-be building "a monster" to The Richmonder and said she found out about the plans after seeing the construction fencing — which runs along the back of about 10 houses perched on Floyd Avenue — go up.
- Concerns include the aesthetics and possible noise that could come from the building.
Between the lines: Construction on the one-story building hasn't begun yet, but VMFA spokesperson Amy Peck told Axios the first phase is to "bury all of the utility lines that are currently running along the alleyway atop unsightly poles."
- The groundbreaking is expected to happen in March 2025 and the work complete next November.
What we're watching: A state advisory board rejected VMFA's design proposal for its expansion last week, citing issues with how "massive" and "overwhelming" the new wing will look on Grove, reports BizSense.
- It's unclear how the VMFA might adjust the proposal to address the board's concerns.