Community Development

PlanRVA is dedicated to enhancing community development services for member localities and partners. By working closely with local stakeholders, including government officials, businesses, and community leaders, we work in partnership to achieve impactful solutions that address housing affordability, promote economic diversification, and enhance overall quality of life. Supported by the integrated resources from our data analytics, environmental, transportation, and emergency management teams, we strive to foster vibrant communities where businesses flourish and residents thrive. 

Economic Development and Housing are central to our Community Development program. PlanRVA works with member localities and partners to develop plans and provide support for strategic investments in human capital and physical infrastructure that will lead to a more dynamic Richmond region. Through efforts like this, PlanRVA provides a broad range of local technical assistance to its localities.

Much of PlanRVA’s Community Development work is guided by the Richmond Regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). This plan serves as a core strategic plan and compiles resources of local strategic plans and research findings from the work of allied partners.

The first Richmond Regional CEDS was adopted in 2014 and updated annually from 2014-2018.  A comprehensive update to the region’s CEDS has been underway in 2025 with EDA planning grant funds. Learn more about the 2025 CEDS and read the draft report on the CEDS Engagement Page. Comment on the draft is open October 10 - November 8, 2025.