Systems merge after Richmond park ranger shooting, officials expect enhanced visitor services

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Two public-serving programs have merged after a Richmond park ranger was shot in January. Officials said the change will allow for enhanced visitor services within the park system.

On Friday, May 9, the City of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities announced the merging of the Park Ranger program and the James River Park System Outdoor Education program, effective immediately.

According to the city, the programs will now become a streamlined initiative, enhancing visitor services through youth and public programs throughout Richmond’s park system.

City officials confirmed that the merger between the two programs was due to a shooting that occurred at Belle Isle in Richmond on Sunday, Jan. 19, in which a man shot a park ranger in the chest.

"When the incident at Belle Isle occurred, it made the department do a stop, reset, and relook at what was the initial purpose of what the ranger program was slated to be. Department staff were able to reflect at some of the different pieces and retooled the Park Ranger program into what it will be moving forward," a city spokesperson said.

Officials said Park Rangers will lead regularly scheduled programs at the nature center and offer opportunities for volunteers to serve as hosts, trail monitors or river safety ambassadors.

Park visitors can also expect to see more opportunities for consistent public programs within and beyond the James River Park System.

“When the City Council first approved funding for the park ranger program in 2022, the goal was to enhance the experience for park users,” said Kristen Nye, former City Council President and lead patron of the program's funding. “I’m excited to see the program evolve and build on the services already available to Richmond families and park visitors.”

The city said the Park Ranger program will continue to provide outreach services to individuals visiting the parks, provide wilderness first aid as needed and facilitate communication and partnership with first responders during emergencies.

The Park Ranger program will also continue to provide high-quality school programs, summer camps and professional development opportunities for students and teachers, according to the city.

"The best way to ensure our parks are open and welcoming to all has always been through activation of the space," said former James River Park Superintendent and Groundwork RVA Executive Director Nathan Burrell. "The merger of these two programs offers just that, by accelerating public engagement opportunities in the spaces we love for all Richmonders."