Richmond unveils $140M sewer project to protect James River, cut pollution

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A popular park in the City of Richmond is set to play a key role in a major environmental effort aimed at making the James River cleaner, reducing flood risks and protecting public health.

Richmond is moving forward with a multimillion-dollar Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) project at Canoe Run Park. The plan includes installing an underground storage tank and diversion structure to capture stormwater and sewage during heavy rainfall, preventing it from flowing untreated into the James River.

The project carries a price tag of up to $140 million, with most of the funding coming from state grants. Construction of the storage tank is scheduled to begin in 2027 and wrap up by 2029. The entire project must be completed by July 2035.

Currently, Richmond experiences an average of 37 overflow events each year, releasing an estimated 115 million gallons of untreated wastewater into the river.

Once the project is complete, officials say the number of annual overflow events could drop to just 10, with only about 32 million gallons released. Most of that water will be treated before reaching the river.

City officials said this isn’t just about water quality; it’s about reducing flood risk, protecting public health and doing it all while keeping Canoe Run Park open to the public.

In addition to the new storage tank, the project will also include upgrades to aging sewer lines and expanded storage capacity to manage future storms better. Preliminary work begins this month.

City leaders hope the long-term investment will help restore the James River ecosystem and make the area safer for residents and recreational users alike.