Press Releases
Richmond Residents Invited to Map Flooding Across Richmond as “Go with the Flow” Returns for Second Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 20, 2026
Contact: Sarah Wilkinson, sarah@southsidereleaf.org
RICHMOND, VA — As flood season begins in Richmond, Southside ReLeaf and the University of Richmond are launching the second year of Go with the Flow, a community science initiative that collects neighborhood-level data about where flooding occurs across the city after rain events.
The 2026 campaign will run from March 20 (the spring equinox) through September 22 (the fall equinox), inviting residents across Richmond to report flooding conditions through a brief mobile-friendly survey.
“Last year’s participation showed how powerful community science can be,” said Sheri Shannon, co-founder and director of programs at Southside ReLeaf. “Thanks to residents reporting flooding, we see patterns that mirror urban heat islands – areas with more pavement and lower tree canopy cover experience more frequent flooding, highlighting the role of urban design and green infrastructure in managing stormwater. After the intense rainstorms and flash flooding we experienced last summer, it’s critical that we identify and mitigate flood hazards for public health and safety.”
Flooding is driven in part by excessive runoff from the city's extensive impervious surfaces, which prevent water from soaking into the ground. Instead of being absorbed by soil and tree roots, rainwater is funneled toward aging stormwater infrastructure, which can quickly overwhelm drainage systems. These challenges are particularly acute in areas of Southside Richmond that were annexed from Chesterfield County, where the drainage infrastructure was not originally designed to handle today's level of development.
During the first year of the project, residents submitted more than 300 flood surveys representing every Richmond City Council district. Nearly half of all submissions came from Southside districts, with District 8 contributing more flood reports than any other area of the city.
Additional research conducted by the University of Richmond examined flood-related calls made through the City’s 311 system and found that Southside districts not only report significant flooding concerns but also experience the longest average response times for flood-related service requests.
Dr. Stephanie Spera, Associate Professor of Geography, Environment, and Sustainability at the University of Richmond, said the flood observations submitted by residents are critical for strengthening the project’s predictive flood model.
“The flood model we’re developing uses data about Richmond’s built environment — things like roads, storm drains, trees, and topography,” Spera said. “When residents report where flooding does and doesn’t occur after rain events, that information helps us refine the model and identify patterns. The more observations we collect, the more accurate and useful the model becomes.”
Become a Flow-Rider
Go with the Flow is a short, mobile-friendly survey that asks for the date, approximate time of rainfall, and location of the observation. Photos are strongly encouraged but not required; the survey is anonymous, and it takes only seconds to complete.
Residents are encouraged to submit surveys while it is raining — and also when flooding does not occur. Observations showing where water drains successfully are just as important for building the predictive flood model as reports documenting flooding.
Southside ReLeaf hopes to collect more than 500 surveys during the 2026 cycle and is launching two volunteer initiatives to expand participation:
Flow-Rider District Captains – volunteers who help monitor flooding within their City Council districts.
Go with the Flow Canvassing Team – community ambassadors who will help spread the word about the flood survey.
Participants can also sign up to receive text alerts during rain events, reminding them to submit observations by texting FLOWRIDERS to (866) 719-9501.
To learn more about Go with the Flow, view the project dashboard, and participate in the survey, visit: southsidereleaf.org/go-with-the-flow.
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Note to Reporters
Results from the first year of the project, including an interactive breakdown of survey submissions by Richmond City Council district, are available through a public data dashboard. Photos submitted by residents documenting flooding conditions are available to media outlets upon request.
Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities has engaged with the data collected through the project, and Go with the Flow is also featured in the City’s resilience assessment to better understand Richmond’s climate-related risks facing Richmond.
About Southside ReLeaf
Southside ReLeaf is an environmental justice nonprofit committed to improving health outcomes and the quality of life for Southside Richmond residents. By building green spaces, connecting with neighbors, and advocating for people-centered policy, Southside ReLeaf seeks a healthy, equitable, and sustainable environment for all residents in South Richmond. Get involved at southsidereleaf.org.
About the University of Richmond
The University of Richmond is an academically challenging and intellectually vibrant institution committed to enhancing the student experience through integrated coursework, hands-on research, creative expression, and experiential learning. Richmond ranks among the top 25 liberal arts schools in the country. UR is home to the first undergraduate school of leadership studies and a top 20 business school. Other schools on campus include arts and sciences, law, and professional and continuing studies.
Southside ReLeaf and University of Richmond Launch Flood Mapping Community Science Project
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 19, 2025
Contact: Sarah Wilkinson, sarah@southsidereleaf.org
RICHMOND, VA — Southside ReLeaf and the University of Richmond are partnering to launch a new flood mapping community science project called “Go with the Flow” to collect data on where it floods (or doesn’t flood) in the city. The project will start on March 20, 2025 (the first day of spring) and end on September 1, 2025 (Labor Day). During this time, everyone in the Richmond community is invited to support data collection efforts by completing a brief flood survey each time it rains.
The goal of this project is to gather data that allows students at the University of Richmond to build an accurate and detailed map of where it floods in the city and to gain an understanding of where infrastructure failures are causing flooding. Flood map results will also help Southside ReLeaf and community partners identify where green infrastructure is needed and advocate for priority investments that align with RVAgreen 2050, RVAH2O, and emergency management directives by city leaders and elected officials.
“There’s currently a significant gap in data about where and how much it floods in the city, but we know that flooding is a serious problem,” said Sheri Shannon, co-founder and director of programs at Southside ReLeaf. “We hear from our Southside neighbors all the time about how badly it floods in their neighborhoods and how much that disrupts their lives. We’re leveraging community science to raise awareness about the issue, identify solutions, and catalyze funding opportunities to address the root causes of flooding.”
In Richmond, flooding is caused by excessive runoff in developed areas where the water has nowhere to go. Much of the city is covered by non-permeable surfaces that can't absorb water. Instead, water is funneled towards drainage systems, which are outdated and quickly overwhelmed in many areas of the city. Oftentimes, there aren’t enough trees planted nearby to help absorb excess water that backs up out of storm drains, causing standing water. These issues are particularly bad in the areas of Southside annexed from Chesterfield, a problem the Richmond City Council has listed among their priorities for 2025.
Throughout the “Go with the Flow” project, community members from all over the city are encouraged to complete the flood survey any time it rains, regardless of whether they encounter flooding or not. Participation in the survey is also encouraged any time someone encounters standing water after it has stopped raining.
“Knowing where it floods in the city is just as important as knowing where it doesn’t flood during a rainstorm,” said Dr. Stephanie Spera, Associate Professor of Geography, Environment, and Sustainability at the University of Richmond. “The flood model we’re creating uses data on where paved roads, storm drains, trees, and other topographical features are located in the city. With the data on where it does and doesn’t flood during a rain event collected through the survey, we’ll be able to create a stronger model that will allow us to look for patterns in how the built environment of an area relates to its flood risk.”
As community members take the flood survey, the map software will be able to make more accurate predictions about whether it will flood or not in any given area of Richmond based on the patterns it learned from the survey data. The more data points gathered through the survey about where it floods and where it doesn’t will make the computer model’s predictions more accurate—and therefore, more helpful in steering resources where they are needed most to address flooding.
“We’re excited to invite the community to participate in this community science project,” said Amy Wentz, co-founder of Southside ReLeaf and director of engagement. “Everyone can contribute something meaningful to this collective effort to address flooding in our communities. The data we collect through the flood survey will help us advocate for investments that lead to real improvements in the daily lives of our neighbors.”
Go With the Flow is a mobile-friendly survey that asks for the date, an approximate time it rained, and the location. Photos are great but not a requirement, it’s anonymous, and only takes seconds to complete. Those interested in participating in the flood mapping project can sign up to receive text alerts when it rains with a reminder to complete the survey. For more information about the project and frequently asked questions, visit southsidereleaf.org/go-with-the-flow.
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About Southside ReLeaf
Southside ReLeaf is an environmental justice nonprofit committed to improving health outcomes and the quality of life for Southside Richmond residents. By building green spaces, connecting with neighbors, and advocating for people-centered policy, Southside ReLeaf seeks a healthy, equitable, and sustainable environment for all residents in South Richmond. Get involved at southsidereleaf.org.
About the University of Richmond
The University of Richmond is an academically challenging and intellectually vibrant institution committed to enhancing the student experience through integrated coursework, hands-on research, creative expression, and experiential learning. Richmond ranks among the top 25 liberal arts schools in the country. UR is home to the first undergraduate school of leadership studies and a top 20 business school. Other schools on campus include arts and sciences, law, and professional and continuing studies.
Statement of Solidarity / Declaración de solidaridad
Statement of Solidarity
January 23, 2025
Southside ReLeaf expresses solidarity with our neighbors who are experiencing deep fear as a result of executive orders that the new White House administration has begun to issue. We recognize the full personhood and dignity of our immigrant and LGBTQ neighbors regardless of your official status as recognized by the government, and we stand in solidarity with you as you face threats to your safety and wellbeing. We will continue to support the Paris Climate Agreements, knowing that global cooperation is essential to combat the climate crisis and protect the future of our communities.
In the coming days, weeks, and months, our values of justice, compassion, and care are going to be continually challenged, but our commitment to the Richmond community remains unchanged. As new orders are issued and policies are passed, we will continue to advocate for the health, safety, and wellbeing of our neighbors and our communities. We remain united in the fight for a more inclusive, sustainable, and compassionate future.
Declaración de solidaridad
23 de enero de 2025
Southside ReLeaf expresa su solidaridad con nuestros vecinos que están viviendo un profundo temor como resultado de las órdenes ejecutivas que la nueva administración de la Casa Blanca ha comenzado a emitir. Reconocemos la plena humanidad y dignidad de nuestros vecinos inmigrantes y LGBTQ, independientemente del estatus oficial que sea reconocido por el gobierno, y nos solidarizamos con ustedes mientras enfrentan amenazas a su seguridad y bienestar. Seguiremos apoyando los Acuerdos de París sobre el clima, sabiendo que la cooperación mundial es esencial para combatir la crisis climática y proteger el futuro de nuestras comunidades.
En los próximos días, semanas y meses, nuestros valores de justicia, compasión y empatía se verán continuamente puestos a prueba, pero nuestro compromiso con la comunidad de Richmond permanece intacto. A medida que se emitan nuevas órdenes y se aprueben nuevas políticas, seguiremos abogando por la salud, la seguridad y el bienestar de nuestros vecinos y nuestras comunidades. Seguimos unidos en la lucha por un futuro más integrador, sostenible y compasivo.
Swansboro West Civic Association Receives CGA Mini-Grant from Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 9, 2024
Contact: Sarah Wilkinson, sarah@southsidereleaf.org
RICHMOND, VA — The Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay has awarded Swansboro West Civic Association a $20,000 Community Green Access (CGA) mini-grant to conduct a visioning process to transform the area behind Swansboro Elementary School into a community park. Southside ReLeaf is serving as the Association’s fiscal agent.
The goal of this project is to engage community members of Swansboro West and teachers, staff, students, and parents of Swansboro Elementary School to develop a common vision for how the space behind the school can be re-developed to better meet the needs of residents.
“Creating access to quality green space for the community is critical,” said Amy Wentz, co-founder of Southside ReLeaf. “We’re honored to be able to support Swansboro West Civic Association as they build community consensus around what a new park behind the elementary school could look like. Neighbors in Swansboro know best what they need, so the fact that they will be the ones to design future park upgrades is so exciting.”
In the Richmond 300 master plan, a stated goal of the City of Richmond is for all residents to be within a 10-minute walk of a park. While there is a sizable area behind Swansboro Elementary School, it currently lacks many of the amenities associated with a community park and the playground equipment requires upgrades. The area is not currently designated as an official city park.
“Green spaces to meet and gather help make a community strong and vibrant. It really is the community’s heart and soul,” said Denise Payne, Swansboro West Civic Association President. “Swansboro West has lacked this for many years, and more importantly, our children have lacked that their entire lives. They already know Swansboro Elementary as a wonderful school. Now we have to show them it can be a beautiful, safe, and fun park as well.”
Swansboro West Civic Association is a volunteer-led organization that represents Richmond residents between Hull Street and Forest Hill Avenue from Clopton Street to just before Belt Boulevard and along Reedy Creek. By engaging with neighbors, the Association solves problems pertaining to community safety, health, and quality of life in order to make the Swansboro West neighborhood a better place to live. In partnership with the Richmond Tree Stewards, the Association is currently in the process of planting more than 100 trees in the community to reduce urban heat islands and improve air quality.
The Alliance for Chesapeake Bay engages communities, companies, and conservationists to build a more resilient landscape and foster deeper commitment to improving communities, lands, and waters in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. As part of this work, the Alliance offers financial and technical assistance to local groups through their Community Green Access (CGA) mini-grants program. The aim of the program is to increase environmental access for community members in historically underserved areas.
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About Southside ReLeaf
Southside ReLeaf is an environmental justice nonprofit committed to improving health outcomes and the quality of life for Southside Richmond residents. By building green spaces, connecting with neighbors, and advocating for people-centered policy, Southside ReLeaf seeks a healthy, equitable, and sustainable environment for all residents in South Richmond. Get involved at southsidereleaf.org.
Southside ReLeaf Receives $25,000 Capacity-Building Grant from Robins Foundation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 30, 2024
Contact: Sarah Wilkinson, sarah@southsidereleaf.org
RICHMOND, VA — Robins Foundation has awarded Southside ReLeaf $25,000 in operating funds to support the organization’s capacity to grow and sustain its programming.
“We’re grateful for our relationship with Robins Foundation and the support they’re providing to the organization, including critical resources to build our infrastructure,” said Sheri Shannon, co-founder of Southside ReLeaf. “We’ve been able to fund new positions, start fundraising, and see much new growth, both within Southside ReLeaf and our broader community of neighbors.”
The working relationship between Southside ReLeaf and Robins Foundation began in February 2023 and has since grown in a shared support for transforming communities into dynamic places to live. Last year, a mini-grant from the foundation supported the creation of the organization’s first paid staff member, as well as access to fundraising coaching and relationship management software through the Jumpstart program. To reach neighbors and other stakeholders, Southside ReLeaf can build capacity through staff to green spaces, connect with neighbors, educate neighbors, and advocate for resources that benefit Southside residents.
The Robins Foundation was founded on Claiborne Robins’ belief in the power of education to transform lives and society. Robins Foundation continues that legacy through a focus in early childhood care and education. The foundation honors its commitments by investing in organizations that are contributing to the culture and vibrancy of Richmond’s dynamic community.
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About Southside ReLeaf
Southside ReLeaf is an environmental justice nonprofit committed to improving health outcomes and the quality of life for Southside Richmond residents. By building green spaces, connecting with neighbors, and advocating for people-centered policy, Southside ReLeaf seeks a healthy, equitable, and sustainable environment for all residents in South Richmond. Get involved at southsidereleaf.org.
Southside ReLeaf Applauds the City on Finding New Location for Fire Training Facility
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 1, 2023
Contact: Amy Wentz, hello@southsidereleaf.org
RICHMOND, Va. - Today, Richmond’s Acting Chief Administrative Officer Lincoln Saunders issued a memo to City Council President Michael Jones and 8th District representative Reva Trammell announcing the withdrawal of a new burn tower at Hickory Hill Community Center for the Richmond Fire Department training facility. The memo proposes a “compromise” for the burn tower to be built in Sandston, Va. to replace the current structure. RFD would still occupy classrooms at the community center for training classes.
Southside ReLeaf issued the following response:
“The city made the right decision by listening to community members and finding an alternative location for the burn tower. Given the environmental racism Southside residents experience daily due to discriminatory policies and decisions, it’s important for city leaders to stand by their commitment to protect and expand green spaces. The mayor’s administration and Richmond City Council have a responsibility to create a healthy, safe and climate-resilient city and removing valuable green space in a predominantly Black and Latino community is unjust.
“Parks and green spaces mitigate the effects of the urban heat island effect, improve air quality and mental health, reduce flooding, and act as gathering places for community. Community members have rallied for years to preserve the community center and improve the space with newly planted trees and a community garden. We hope the city will make greater investments at Hickory Hill to build an accessible park that benefits neighbors.
“Southside ReLeaf encourages city leaders to keep an open dialogue with community members to determine the best path forward on how the community center should be used.”
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About Southside ReLeaf
Southside ReLeaf is a community and volunteer-driven organization committed to environmental justice in South Richmond. Our goal is to improve the life expectancy and quality of life for Southside residents by increasing green spaces, reducing pollution, and improving infrastructure. We believe in uplifting voices that are often unheard and people-powered advocacy as we build climate-resilient neighborhoods. Get involved at southsidereleaf.org.