Let the Downtown Loft Tour Begin, Part I
Saturday, January 23, 2010
It’s like playing house, but with real homes and real people.
On March 27, Rocketts Landing participates for our second year in Venture Richmond’s Downtown Loft Tour. The event goes like this: Richmonders gather on buses school-field-trip style and oooh and ahhh at some of the most dashing lofts in five different neighborhoods around town: Manchester, Jackson Ward, Shockoe Bottom, Shockoe Slip and Rocketts Landing.
In preparation for the tour, we will post a series of articles highlighting Rocketts’ five featured condominiums and the owners who call them home.
In Fall Line, three different residencies will be featured: a 4,000 sq. ft. penthouse, a 1600 sq. ft. two-bedroom home, and a 1200 sq. ft. loft. Sky Line will feature two homes: a 4,700 sq. ft. penthouse and an 1800 sq. ft. two-bedroom home.
Each residence has a different floor plan, specifically appealing to the life and lifestyle of the owners. Three of the five participating lofts at Rocketts are home to couples with young children. Loft Tour attendees will be able to meet the loft owners in person and hear their stories. Be sure to check back soon as more details on the homes and their families are discussed.
Another Commercial Tenant
Friday, January 15, 2010
Another business is setting up at Rocketts.
On January 1, Virginia First Financial moved into a 2,100-square-foot office in the Old Richmond Raft Building on the corner of Dock and Main streets. The firm, which has three employees, provides tax planning, financial planning and accounting for small businesses and local residents.
Owner Eric Stamper knew it was time for a change in location when they started outgrowing the office on Chamberlayne Avenue.
“The area before served us well,” says Stamper, “but it was a place you made do with. I made my mind up coming into 2010 that it was time to get a feel [and location] that is more in line with my offerings and my personality — and the clients I’m trying to attract.”
As a member of the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (APVA), Stamper was drawn to the Rocketts location because of the building and area’s historic significance.
“The only other choice I considered was a warehouse in Manchester,” says Stamper. “It still had the same flavor, the salvageable old mixed with the new. Even in this building here we have exposed brick. The reaction from my existing clients is that there’s no question this [location] is more than in line with what I want.”
In Rocketts Landing’s long-term development plan, the Old Richmond Raft House will eventually be demolished. Stamper said this outlook didn’t deter him from moving to Rocketts, as he is fond of the entire Rocketts Landing community.
“At that point, I will move up to the ‘main house,’” says Stamper, a reference to the commercial spaces at 210 Rock and Cedar Works.
But until then, Stamper is enjoying his business’s new home and can’t wait to experience the spring season by the river.
A Year in Review
Monday, January 04, 2010
Most of us are probably saying good riddance to 2009. But even though it was one of the tougher years on the economy, a lot of positive things happened. We’ve compiled this year’s Top Five community highlights.
1. Rocketts Landing Regattas
2009 brought two new regattas to Rocketts Landing: the Collegiate Regatta in March and Sprints Regatta in May.
Collegiate Regatta
Teaming up with the Virginia Boat Club and VCU to host Richmond’s inaugural and only major collegiate regatta, the event featured crew clubs from VCU, University of Richmond, North Carolina State University, Duke University and University of Maryland at Baltimore County. The crew teams planned to compete in 25 different races and various categories. Unexpected choppy waters made the river difficult to navigate, however, and the teams were able to complete only three races. Though the regatta was called off after two hours, we believe starting a new collegiate sports competition that celebrates the James River is a huge accomplishment.
Sprints Regatta
The sixth annual 1000-meter sprint took place in May and included an array of contestants from both high school crew teams and regional clubs. This was the first year Rocketts Landing hosted the event and many spectators lined up along the Intermediate Terminal Dock on the banks of the Virginia Boat Club and Rocketts Landing’s site. Refereed by USRA officials and controlled by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the regatta proved a successful and invigorating Richmond river competition.
2. Virginia Capital Trail Cap-2-Cap Bike Ride
The Virginia Capital Trail is in the works to become a multi-use trail linking Richmond and Williamsburg by 2013. Rocketts Landing joined forces with the Virginia Capital Trail in May and was the official host for the 2nd annual bike ride, which raises money for the trail’s development. With a 40-percent increase in attendance from last year, 1400 riders completed the course, in either 25, 50 or 100 mile round trips. The event saw an upgrade of festivities this year including a VIP breakfast, beer truck, lights and live music.
3. The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing
Rocketts Landing’s first restaurant in the community, as well as Richmond’s only and highly anticipated riverfront restaurant opened its doors in August. Located in the restored Power Plant Building on the banks of the James River, The Boathouse has been serving a packed house almost every night since it opened. In November, the Alliance to Conserve Old Richmond Neighborhoods (A.C.O.R.N.) awarded The Boathouse with their 2009 Golden Hammer Award for “best commercial renovation,” honoring their successful work blending industrial history with contemporary architecture.
4. Rocketts Landing’s Fountain
In November, community residents gathered together for the grand illumination of Rocketts’ newest structural addition: an industrial-inspired fountain. Local design firm Tektonics conceived and built the fountain, matching its design to the surrounding 100-year-old industrial buildings. Illuminated from below and within the fountain, light permeates through chinks and gaps, and reflects water streaming through the middle. Residents expressed satisfaction, stating the fountain offered a welcoming community gathering place, which will soon be joined with benches.
5. Jingle on the James
Hundreds of people attended Rocketts Landing’s inaugural two-day holiday festival. Richmond’s only riverfront holiday event featured over 100 Virginia artists in an eclectic “art village,” James River Parade of Lights, James River Ringers Bell Choirs and Salvation Army Brass Band, RVA HoOp LOvers and carolers. Though the second day brought rain, the holiday festival vendors and attendees remained in positive spirits and marked the beginning of a new Richmond holiday tradition.
Winter Wonderland
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
It's not often that Richmond receives a December snowstorm. But we were delighted when Rocketts Landing turned into a bona fide winter wonderland. Here's a snapshot of our snow-covered community.
Enjoy, and Happy Holidays!
Photos by Seasons in the City on Flickr
Virginia Capital Trail is One Phase Closer
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Like The Little Engine That Could, the Virginia Capital Trail is slowly adding chunks that will eventually connect Richmond to Jamestown.
You may remember our post earlier in the year where we discussed the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation’s goal of completing the trail by 2013, as well as local excitement for a new bike- and pedestrian-friendly path linking Richmond to Williamsburg.
Executive Director Beth Weisbrod verifies that progress is still on track and “each phase is under production, either through survey, design or construction.”
Tomorrow at the Great Shiplock Park, trail supporter Gov. Tim Kaine will cut the ceremonial ribbon in honor of completing the first Richmond phase. Speakers will include Mayor Dwight C. Jones, Virginia Capital Trail Foundation Chairman Jim Beamer and Richmond Historic Riverfront Foundation Chairman Emeritus Brenton Halsey. Rocketts Landing Developer Jason Vickers-Smith will also join the ceremony and introduce the mayor.
“Symbolically this is a huge step for Richmond,” says Weisbrod. “We’re getting closer and closer to being a cycling- and pedestrian-friendly city.”
Weisbrod said before the first phase of the trail is officially ready for use, workers must complete construction on the canopy, which will protect trail users from anything that might potentially fall from the railroad tracks above. She estimates the trail will be ready for use by next week.
In looking to the future, the next phase of production is an 11-mile stretch called Sherwood Forest, which runs from the Chickahominy River to the Charles City County Courthouse.
“We’re hoping to see [this next phase] finished in 2011, which is exciting because then you will have 26 miles of path, all connected,” says Weisbrod.
Weisbrod also mentioned that once the Virginia Capital Trail is complete, they plan to use the trail for educational programs in subjects such as science and history, as well as a recreational feature to draw professional sports events.
Tomorrow’s ribbon-cutting ceremony begins at 11:45 a.m. The Great Shiplock Park is located in Shockoe Bottom at the intersection of Dock and Pear Streets.
Photo courtesy of Virginia Capital Trail Foundation
Jingle All the Way
Thursday, December 10, 2009
This weekend, Rocketts Landing launches our newest holiday festival, Jingle on the James. Co-presented by One smART Gallery, the inaugural festival is the first (and only) holiday event to take place on the James River — and will turn the community into an eclectic art village as well as a venue for holiday-themed entertainment. Free and open to the public.
To help you prepare, here’s a bit of what’s in store:
Virginia Artists in Rocketts “Art Village”
Get to know our local artists when Sky Line and 210 Rock buildings, as well as open, street-level homes and storefronts temporarily convert into an art village showcasing more than 100 Virginia artists. With paintings, hand-made jewelry, handcrafted furniture and more, festival attendees can purchase one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and meet the artists, including Ed Trask, Shaun Irving, Annie Ward Love, Jude Schlotzhauer and Andrew Pitts.
James River Parade of Lights
In its 17th twinkling year on the river, the Parade of Lights is a unique display of decorated vessels that runs from Richmond to Henricus Historical Park in Chesterfield County. Boaters compete for prizes in categories such as best boater-chosen theme, originality, appearance and charm. Spectators can enjoy fantastic views of the parade from the banks of Rocketts Landing. Keep an eye out for the palm tree.
James River Ringers Bell Choir and Salvation Army Brass Band
What’s a holiday festival without the classic sounds of beloved holiday music? The James River Ringers will serenade festival attendees with handbell music while the Salvation Army Brass Band plays holiday favorites.
RVA HoOp LOvers
RVA HoOp LOvers is Richmond’s only troupe of hula-hoopers performing with LED-lighted hula-hoops. Their glowing performance takes place on the riverbank during the Parade of Lights and will also feature a flaming hoops show, adding an edgy twist to your holiday evening.
Brunch and Dinner at The Boathouse
Thought not normally open for Saturday brunch, The Boathouse is participating in the festivities and will open its doors on Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. Sign in and browse the festival while waiting for a seat. Parties of eight or more are encouraged to make reservations.
The weather is supposed to be rather cold, so be sure to warm up with some holiday favorites like hot cocoa, apple cider and ginger cookies, available for purchase throughout each day from Espresso-A-Go-Go.
For more details, please visit our schedule of events.
'Tis the Season
Thursday, December 03, 2009
If you are ready to lift your holiday spirit, Richmond has a busy calendar of weekend festivities. From finding the perfect Christmas tree to carriage rides in the city, there’s an array of free festive outings to choose from. Below are highlights from a few nearby events:
Friday, December 4
25th Annual Grand Illumination at the James Center
6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
A staple of Richmond holiday traditions, the Grand Illumination at the James Center marks the moment downtown dresses up for the season in a display of lights, reindeer and the James Center Christmas tree. Two city blocks will be closed off for celebrations including the countdown of lights, the Legendary Santa, Richmond-native band Timbason, the VCU trombone choir, harpist Rickie Denton, holiday sing-a-longs and more. Illumination happens at 6:25 p.m., so be sure to arrive on time.
Holiday Market at The Farmer’s Market in Shockoe Bottom
5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
If you still need to purchase a Christmas tree, head down to the Farmer’s Market at Shockoe Bottom where trees from Floyd County, Virginia, will be on sale, as well as handmade wreaths and freshly cut mistletoe. The Market will also feature handmade ornaments, hand-carved toys, artisan jewelry, baked desserts and more. The Henrico Pops and the internationally acclaimed Salvation Army International Brass Honor Band will provide holiday entertainment.
Main Street Station Holiday Open House
5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The century-old and meticulously restored train station on Main Street in Shockoe Bottom hosts a Polar Express-themed holiday gathering. Enjoy their holiday tree lighting, children’s train rides, music by The Angels and storytellers beside the fireplace. Stroll through the lighted Cathedral Walk and view the exhibition of huge holiday cards created on wooden doors by children in the Metro Richmond-area public and private schools.
Capitol Square Tree Lighting
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Who knew there were so many tree lightings happening in one night?! The state Christmas tree will light up on Capitol Hill in a festive gathering. The Governor’s Executive Mansion, the oldest continually inhabited governor’s residence in the country, will also host an open house starting at 5:30 p.m.
Free Horse and Carriage Rides
6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Travelling around the River District by horse and carriage might be a great way to visit all the holiday events. The 12-person carriages loop around Shockoe Slip and Shockoe Bottom, and are complete with holiday decorations and jingle bells. One round-trip ride per person. Rides are also available Dec. 5.
Saturday, December 5
The 26th Annual Ukrops-Supervalu Richmond Christmas Parade
10:00 a.m.
Another Richmond staple, the annual parade runs along Broad Street from The Science Museum down to 7th Street and features an array of floats, marching bands, antique cars, Richmond-area Christmas mothers, the premier of Rocky the Flying Squirrel Balloon (the new mascot for Richmond’s Flying Squirrels baseball team) and more. The temperature is supposed to be a bit chilly, so be sure to bring jugs of hot cocoa to complete the morning.
The Boathouse is a Golden Winner
Friday, November 20, 2009
Last Thursday, the Alliance to Conserve Old Richmond Neighborhoods (A.C.O.R.N.) announced that The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing won their 2009 Golden Hammer award for “best commercial renovation.”
The annual award recognizes the top renovation projects throughout the city, and honors rehabilitated properties in Richmond’s blighted and/or oldest neighborhoods that bring new life to the buildings and their communities.
The Boathouse is located in the Rocketts’ Power Plant Building. Originally built in 1910, the building’s former heyday centered on its use as a steam-driven electric power generating plant that provided electricity for a portion of Richmond’s trolley car system.
In a complete transformation, the old Power Plant Building now houses Richmond’s only riverfront restaurant and blends its industrial history with contemporary architecture. Criteria for the contest were strict and placed emphasis on the quality of materials used and architectural design of the restoration, as well as the building’s community impact.
Developer Richard Souter, Vice President of WVS Companies, expressed satisfaction with their recognition. “It’s a great honor winning the award. For us, it’s always been a building we’ve wanted to do. By enhancing the natural structure, we’ve essentially recreated an iconic building that will stand for many years to come.”
Souter pointed out that they did not receive tax credits for restoring the building. Consequently, they were able to have creative flexibility. A few of the standout restoration features include an exterior staircase and elevator supported by steel structures, glass walls on the 4th floor, the preserved smokestack and a butterfly roof.
According to Souter, having the right tenant for the building was also an integral component.
“One of the big tricks with a building like this is finding a tenant who shares your vision, someone who can stand the test of time and deliver on the shared vision,” said Souter.
To Souter and his team, The Boathouse fulfilled that mission and beyond.
Day-Tripping Down the Street
Friday, November 13, 2009
Occasionally we’ve left the property at Rocketts to explore some nearby neighborhoods. For those days when you are ready to do a little historic exploring, here’s a breakdown of some of the museums nearby. Photo courtesy of the Edgar Allan Poe Museum
SHOCKOE BOTTOM
Edgar Allan Poe Museum
Though not a Richmonder by birth, Edgar Allan Poe grew up here as a young boy, lived here as a student and later served as an editor for the Richmond-based magazine Southern Literary Messenger. The Edgar Allen Poe Museum opened in 1922 in The Old Stone House on Main Street — Richmond’s oldest still-standing dwelling (erected in 1737, the house is its own glimpse into the past) — which is only a couple blocks away from Poe’s first Richmond home. The museum boasts the world’s largest collections of Poe letters, manuscripts, first editions, memorabilia, etc., and also has a model of Richmond from Poe’s time completed in 1927 that offers an interesting peak into our historic city.
Virginia Holocaust Museum
Located within an old tobacco warehouse along Tobacco Row since 2003, the Virginia Holocaust Museum originally opened in 1997 in Richmond’s Temple Beth El. Today, the museum features 28 permanent exhibits, such as the only existing Nuremberg Trials Courtroom Exhibit, as well as a book and gift shop. A stunning two-story auditorium is also attached and frequently features nationally recognized guest speakers, lectures and films on a wide range of topics. For example, last week the museum hosted a professor from UNC, Christopher Browning, who is one of the world’s experts on why Nazis carried out the Holocaust.
CHURCH HILL
Patrick Henry’s Speech at St. John’s Church
In March of 1775, 100 colonial leaders, such as Thomas Jefferson, Richard Henry Lee and Patrick Henry, gathered in Richmond’s first church, St. John’s. Home of Henry’s infamous “Give me liberty, or give me death!” speech, St. John’s Church is designated as a national historic landmark, and offers guided tours, private and public reenactments of the Second Virginia Convention, an interpretative Visitor Center and Gift Shop. The church is also an active place of worship and welcomes visitors.
Chimborazo Medical Museum
Located on East Broad Street just a few blocks east from St. John’s Church — and an easy walk from Rocketts — is Chimborazo Park and the national park, Chimborazo Medical Museum. During the Civil War, Richmond was a central destination for recuperating wounded Confederate soldiers. Chimborazo housed the largest Confederate general hospital in Richmond. The museum features a collection of medical equipment, as well as a film and diorama of the hospital. One neat side-note: The name comes from a mountain in Ecuador, which during the Civil War was thought to be the tallest mountain in the world at 21,000 feet tall. That’s not even close to Everest, at 29,000 feet.
Robinson Theater Community Arts Center
Recently awarded the A.C.O.R.N. 2009 Golden Hammer Award for “best renovation by a nonprofit,” the art-deco Robinson Theater was built in 1937 and originally named after early 20th century Broadway star and Richmond-native Bill “Bojangles” Robinson. The theater was an important gathering hub for the historic Church Hill neighborhood until its spiraling neglect and subsequent closing in the 1980s. In 2008, however, the Robinson Theater underwent an historic renovation and now offers a multi-purpose performance hall for arts-based programs, such as the recent Richmond Philharmonic Orchestra fall concert.
A Grand Illumination
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Last week, Rocketts Landing residents celebrated the grand illumination of the community’s newest structural addition: a stunning, industrial-inspired fountain.
Located in the courtyard of Cedar Works, the copper-plated fountain made of solid steel boasts a striking display of light and flowing water. Light permeates through the chinks and gaps, and reflects water streaming through the middle.
The design was initially tricky, since a traditional fountain wouldn’t work in a courtyard surrounded by renovated 100-year-old industrial buildings.
Christopher Hildebrand, who co-owns the local design firm Tektonics, conceived and built the fountain with an abstract design that is related to the community’s historical environment. He chose to focus on Rocketts Landing’s masonry and brick towers as the structural theme, what he describes as “a monolithic smokestack.”
The illumination brought out many of the community’s residents, who gathered by the glowing fixture. “Our residents love to have places to gather, and this water fountain provides another place for them to get together and mingle,” said Rocketts Marketing Director Marti Cooke.
A “Make A Wish” box filled with pennies was even passed around so they could be the first to toss wishes into the fountain.
Bob Jennings, a Cedar Works resident who moved to Rocketts in May 2008 made a wish that — in keeping with tradition — he wouldn’t share. He did, however, discuss what the fountain means to him and his wife.
“[For us] the fountain represents a commitment to details, putting a personal touch into the community — and it looks nice. We have a lot of fun [living here], and the fountain represents the coming together of this great community.”
Sky Line resident Penny Maggio also sees the fountain as an emblem of the community formed at Rocketts Landing. “The fountain represents how the developer is invested in this community, and to me that’s really important. When he’s involved, it keeps us involved, which is very much appreciated.”
The residents’ sentiments reflect Cooke’s vision for the fountain as a meeting place, which will soon be joined with accompanying benches.
River City Manatee
Friday, October 30, 2009
The James River is brimming with aquatic life (including a giant catfish we wrote about a while back) but when a manatee was spotted last week swimming near downtown Richmond, we could have been on our way to having a revised contender for the new baseball team name.
Sgt. Joe Owen spotted the mammal while he was off duty and enjoying a bass fishing trip near the I-95 interstate bridge, just a ways up from Rocketts Landing. According to reports, he estimated that the manatee was approximately 8-feet long and weighed between 700 and 1000 pounds. In total, the manatee was spotted on three different occasions. Richmond’s last visiting manatee swam by in 2002.
Native to Florida, manatees are endangered species that live in freshwater, though they can also travel in salt and brackish waters. In the summer months, the highest north they are commonly found is Georgia. The manatee sightings in Richmond, then, make the visit not only in unusual territory, but also an out-of-season adventure.
To better understand why a manatee would make an appearance so far away from home, I talked with Chuck Underwood, a Public Information Officer with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Jacksonville, Florida, which also serves as the lead office for Florida Manatee Recovery and Conservation.
Underwood confirmed that since the sightings on Oct. 21, no other manatees have been seen in the Richmond area, and the animal was certainly not a pet released into the river, which some people were suggesting.
“What we’re seeing is an increasing number of animals moving up the East Coast,” Underwood says. “We don’t know for certain why these animals are doing this. We do know that recent reports counted [a total of] 3800 manatees in the population. That’s well over double what the minimum population was in 1973. So, when you have a population that’s expanding, it’s not uncommon for animals to move further and further out.”
Underwood pointed out that manatees live in water with temperatures of 60 degrees Fahrenheit and above. Perhaps with the recent warm weather “the animal may have gone up river, hung out in the water and since started moving south.”
Curious to know the exact location of the sighting, I asked Underwood if he could tell me. Due to the animal’s federal protection, however, he quickly informed me that though they are aware of the manatee’s precise location, they are not able to provide that information.
Good news for the manatee who hopefully is safely swimming home to warmer waters.
More Like Jog to the River
Friday, October 23, 2009
The coldest day of the fall so far turned out to be a real help on Saturday when I and 150 other bundled-up joggers ran through Fulton Hill and Church Hill for the Rocketts Landing Run to the River.
Even though it was 10:00 a.m., residents in those neighborhoods who came out on their porches to pick up a newspaper or get a breath of fresh air looked perplexed. Perhaps they were wondering if something or someone was chasing us — indeed no, we were trailed only by helpful encouragement from volunteers.
The race raised around $35,000 for the Neighborhood Resource Center, which is a wonderful community center on Williamsburg Road in the Fulton Hill section of Richmond. It was also a warm home base for after the race, where we all gathered to sip hot tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
As for the race, I was warned the hills would be a challenge. But they weren’t that bad. Coming up Church Hill on slippery grass somewhere around the fifth-mile mark was probably the toughest part.
I try to get out and jog twice a week, usually along the trails next to the James River. But jogging with a crowd provided some much-needed encouragement as we discussed the local restaurant scene. Perhaps I should have been running faster instead of talking. The winner, MacGregor Lennarz, came in after 40 minutes. It took me 55 minutes.
Perhaps I’ll do better next year.
A Reason to Rumba
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Let’s get ready to rumba.
One step into the Richmond Folk Festival, and your feet want to start moving to the music.
The 2nd annual three-day, free music festival — one of Virginia’s largest events — took place last weekend around Tredegar Iron Works and Brown’s Island, along the banks of the James River. The event originally came to town from 2005 through 2007 as the National Folk Festival, the nation’s longest-running and most diverse festival of traditional arts. Put on by the National Council for the Traditional Arts (NCTA), one of the traveling event’s goals is to help communities start their own local festivals, and with Richmond they certainly succeeded.
Over 185,000 people attended last year when Richmond held the festival on its own for the first time. And while Saturday’s gloomy weather led to a slightly smaller crowd than normal, the weekend-long event entertained thousands, from Richmond and beyond.
From Western cowboy yodeling to Jamaican reggae to traditional Korean dance, the Richmond Folk Festival caters to all kinds of musical tastes. I can think of very few events that so successfully bring the Richmond community together for a singular cause with such enthusiasm.
Five different stages are featured each year, including a designated family area, and with over 30 artists performing throughout the weekend, picking and choosing your festival experience can become an art in-and-of itself. After wandering my way from stage to stage, I was able to pinpoint my top three favorite performances from the weekend:
Debashish Bhattacharya, Indian slide guitarist, Kolkata, India
This Grammy-nominated artist plays a 22-string guitar (among many other guitars) he made himself, and is one of India’s leading pioneers of slide guitar music. His brother and master tabla player, Subhasis Bhattacharya, accompanied him, and together they jam music full of traditional yet experimental Indian flair with a sound reminiscent of the sitar. It’s hypnotic, and I went back on both Saturday and Sunday.
Workshop with Slide Guitar Masters
Where else can you see Grammy-winning dobro player Jerry Douglas, Grammy-nominated Debashish Bhattacharya, Sacred Steel player Aubrey Ghent and acclaimed blues guitarist Corey Harris all improv together on the same stage?
Samba Mapangala & Orchestre Virunga, East African rumba and soukous
Fill the stage with a fusion of Congonese rumba, East African sounds and synchronized dancers, and you have the makings of an energized dance party. The highlight of this band — aside from their catchy rhythms — came when a young girl from the audience jumped onstage and followed along with the troupe’s dancers, only to be joined by an ecstatic toddler and three other teenage boys.
If you’ve not yet attended the Richmond Folk Festival, I highly recommend scheduling your 2010 calendar for the event.
Photos courtesy of Richmond Folk Festival.
Confessions of a Cameratruck
Thursday, October 01, 2009
This Friday, Oct. 2, Rocketts Landing welcomes world-renowned and Richmond-based photographer Shaun Irving to 210 Rock for Landscapes in a Truck, an exclusive exhibit of photographs taken with his Cameratruck during a tour across Spain.
Turning a truck into a giant camera began as a joke in college. Irving ruminated on the concept for a few years, but the idea never left him. So in 2004, using all of his savings, Irving bought an old U.S. mail truck and built the vehicle into the world’s largest travelling camera.
“My original plan was to go around the whole Southeast,” Irving says. “I wanted to teach kids about photography, and take great photos along the way.”
Unfortunately, the original tour fell through. The idea received great publicity, however, and it wasn’t long before an ad agency in Spain learned about Irving’s Cameratruck and invited him to tour the country in 2006.
The three-week long, 4000-mile trip resulted in 70 photos, all in black and white, and approximately 8-feet in length. Irving’s theme was nature, but he adds that the concept of “urban decay” also found its way into the photos. “There’s a little bit of man’s touch in the natural world. Some ways good, some ways bad,” he says. “There are a lot of pretty vistas [in the collection], but also interesting abandoned factories and such.”
Taking a single picture is certainly no quick point and click. In fact, each photo takes anywhere from one to three hours to create.
The truck’s camera is designed as a light-tight box with a hole on the driver’s side. The hole projects every image upside down and backwards onto giant 4’x8’ photographic paper hung inside the truck. To take a photo, Irving drives to his desired destination and parks. He then climbs into the truck, exposes the paper to light and develops the image using standard chemicals and hand tools.
The result?
Stunning, light-infused images that feel caught between a century-old photograph and a modern work of art. And because of Irving’s approach, every print is truly unique.
“It’s an uneven developing [process],” says Irving, “and you end up with crazy images around the edge. It gives the negative a very interesting and different look each time.”
Because of the photographic paper’s size, Irving’s negatives are about seven- to eight-feet wide, approximately 3000 times larger than a typical 35mm negative. "Consequently, you end up with really fine detail that you wouldn’t have otherwise,” he says.
Landscapes in a Truck will show for one night only. Residents and other guests are invited to attend the opening reception from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. featuring food and wine from The Boathouse, and music by a flamenco guitarist. The show is open to the public from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
To learn more about Shaun Irving’s work, please visit Cameratruck.net.
Rocketts Landing Run to the River Part II
Friday, September 25, 2009
Who said raising money was supposed to be a cakewalk? More like an uphill 10K.
The 2nd Annual Rocketts Landing Run to the River on Saturday, October 17, benefits the Neighborhood Resource Center (NRC) of Greater Fulton Hill, a non-profit organization that runs a school and community outreach center.
Their programs include tutoring, Montessori preschool, after school programs, art, music and GED classes. They will also soon open a café, in partnership with Tricycle Gardens, featuring organic food options with many of the ingredients grown in the NRC garden.
“We are very pleased to be building our relationship with Rocketts Landing,” says Bridgette Huff, NRC’s Race Director and Board Secretary. “It’s been very encouraging how the community and residents are reaching out and supporting us in our mission.”
The race is expected to be a larger event this year, with potentially three or four times as many participants. Local musicians will play alongside the courses, and there will be a halfway party at the Park House in Libby Hill Park.
Three different courses are featured: 10k Hill Run, 5k Walk and 1k Fun Run.
The 10K Hill Run follows the same course as last year, beginning in Fulton Hill and continuing through Montrose Heights, Fulton Bottom, Church Hill and Rocketts Landing. Three major hills included in the course are Libby Hill, Powhatan Hill and Fulton Hill, all of which are short and steep, yet should not deter runners from participating. Terrain will include pavement, sidewalks, grass, cobblestones and stairs, with elevation ranging from 170-feet above sea level at the top of the race to 12-feet above sea level at the Rocketts Landing marina.
“If someone’s preparing for the Richmond marathon, this is a great way to practice,” Huff says.
A designated member of Richmond Road Runners Club has measured the course to ensure it meets USATF standards.
The 5k Walk and 1k Fun Run are not nearly as strenuous. The 5k Walk spans Montrose Heights, Fulton Hill and Rocketts Landing, while the 1k Fun Run will take place on Salem Street. Though the latter race is geared toward kids of all ages, parents are encouraged to participate as well. “Dogs and strollers are also welcome,” Huff says.
Upon completing the race, participants will be able to enjoy NRC’s Finish Line Party and Alternative Health Fair with complimentary breakfast, massages, consultations from alternative health practitioners, live music and tours of the NRC.
Additionally, the top two “fundrunners” who raise the most money will receive either a one-year annual membership to Richmond Balance, a personal fitness gym in Shockoe Bottom, or a gift certificate offering a two-night stay at The Homestead in Hot Springs, VA. Awards will also be presented to the top three men and women in the 10K and 5K races.
To register for the race and to learn more, please visit Runtotheriver.org.
In Good Company
Friday, September 18, 2009
In fact it’s the oldest commercial section of the city and the only commercial district with direct access to the James River. That last part is imperative because Robert Hensley, who has responsibility for leasing the project’s commercial space, takes potential business tenants on a boat ride along the James to gain a unique perspective of the project.
I recently met with Hensley, Vice President/Commercial Division for The WVS Companies, developer of Rocketts Landing, and he led me through the various units available.
“As a business owner, you will have a built-in population surrounding you, as well as additional amenities and restaurants for you to enjoy within easy walking distance,” Hensley says.
He points out some additional benefits to all commercial locations:
Exclusive, urban-inspired riverfront/riverside property
2,000 free parking spaces for employees and customers
Units custom-built to suit your needs by local developer
Commercial spaces available in both Richmond City and Henrico County
There are currently three distinct commercial areas within Rocketts Landing: Cedar Works Warehouse, 210 Rock and prime riverfront property. Let’s break it down.
Cedar Works Warehouse
The renovation of this early 20th century warehouse will convert 33,000 square feet into commercial property. Right now developers are working to obtain firm commitments from enough tenants before construction will begin in earnest. The building is located in Henrico County, and as such, is the closest County location to the downtown CBD.
With three floors of space available — each unit contains from 3,000 to 11,000 square feet — aesthetic amenities will include exposed brick walls and heart pine beams, and up to 10-feet ceilings on the first two stories. Businesses on the third floor will have 15-feet, A-frame ceilings. Each floor will also have three all-glass atriums. You may see retailers go in here since they will get street-front exposure to 11,000 cars passing by daily.
“Companies such as a dry cleaner and smoothie shop would do great in the first floor,” Hensley says, and could cater to the 3,500 residents who will complete Rocketts Landing, in addition to clientele from the surrounding communities. Hensley envisions the second and third floors working well for “creative spaces” such as architectural firms, law offices and ad agencies. Businesses could be able to move into the space in late 2010.
210 Rock
A restaurant and home builder/development firm are in the process of moving in, and the building also has an array of high-end residences. 210 Rock is a modern, six-story building offering street-level retail spaces, luxury condominiums and structured parking. In total, there are 12,000 square feet of retail space, and the units are between 1,000 to 3,000 square feet each.
“Storefronts offer great foot traffic from residents, and are just a step away from the river,” Hensley adds, “making this the perfect location for an outdoorsy professional,”
Prime Riverfront Property
The first restaurant to take off is The Boathouse, and word is they are experiencing a two-hour wait. While it may be two years before most of the other six to eight restaurant lots will be available, the fantastic skyline view, modern architecture and direct river access will probably make this highly sought-after. But for now that’s speculation.
The contemporary, three-story buildings will also offer retail and office spaces, and the future available space will total several hundred thousand square feet. Hensley points out that the size of each unit “really depends on what size space the client wants. We [can] accommodate just about any need from the smallest office to a large corporate headquarters.”
There is also a lot available for a high-end riverfront hotel, though it will probably be a few years before the space is available.
“We are happy to begin speaking with clients now,” Hensley says.
Businesses interested in Rocketts Landing commercial spaces get a river tour. The pontoon boat accommodates up to 15 people at a time.
Experiencing the full vision of Rocketts Landing is important, Hensley points out, since only the first four blocks out of the full twenty are currently in development. In an already exciting development, there is still so much more than meets the eye.
“We’re less than a mile from downtown, have a fantastic view of the city, offer convenient parking, and are only steps away from the river,” Hensley says. “This is only the beginning of a great destination.”
If you are interested to take a tour of Rocketts Landing’s commercial district, as well as the complimentary boat ride, you can contact Robert Hensley at robert.hensley@rockettsvillage.com or 804-536-5597.
A Hot Welcome to Ronnie’s
Friday, September 11, 2009
If you haven’t been down to Ronnie’s Ribs yet, you don’t know what you are missing.
Located in a parking lot at the corner of 25th and East Main Streets, the storefront is an unassuming trailer, but the food is out of this world — and quickly gaining quite a following. In the two years they’ve been in operation, including just one year at their current location on Main, Ronnie’s Ribs has gained significant national exposure. The Food Network featured Ronnie’s Ribs in their Best Thing I Ever Ate: Bar-B-Que show, and The View recently dished them up on one of their episodes.
When I asked owner Ronald Logan, a Varina native who’s lived in the area his entire life, what he thought was the secret to his success, he immediately had a one-word answer: love.
But it didn’t take much longer for his deeper meaning to come out.
“To a lot of folks, it’s my attitude and how I feel about my food,” Logan says. “The way we set up in the parking lot, people can come right up to us and talk to us, can see the meat cooking, can smell it and have the interaction. I get to know customers by their first names.”
Logan also loves cooking.
His passion started when he was much younger and cooking with his dad. So when Logan lost his job at a local banking firm after 29 years of employment, he began looking for the next step.
He was smoking meat at his home, and his son would bring dishes in to work events. Requests quickly came from people who wanted to buy a slab of ribs. Before long, his son asked him if he could cater a work event for 95 people. Logan agreed. And word spread from there. In fact, to this day, Logan says he’s barely advertised his company.
“The smoker uses indirect heat and hickory wood,” Logan says. “The flames don’t hit it. That helps a lot. And the meat is slow cooked. Ribs take 3 ½ to 4 hours, and wings might take an hour and a half. There’s a lot of love going into it before, during and after.”
Logan points out that he makes his own sauce and his own rub — a truly defining feature.
Menu items are very well priced and include staples such as his famous hickory smoked ribs, North Carolina-style pulled pork barbeque, jumbo wings and beef brisket. Combos include a side dish and a drink, or you can order a la carte.
In looking to the future of Ronnie’s Ribs, Logan says he hopes to open a restaurant in Rocketts Landing within the next couple of years. They are planning to add dinner delivery that would service downtown Richmond and Rocketts Landing residents. They will also soon expand their operating hours in order to meet increased demand.
“To do what you have a passion for and squeak out a living, it’s not easy,” Logan says, “but we’re a family-run business, and when you love to do something, you don’t mind doing it.”
Ronnie’s Ribs is currently open Thursday – Saturday, Noon to 8 p.m. You can visit them online at Ronniesribsandwings.com.
Dinner Is Served
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing has finally cast off into the Richmond restaurant scene, and after cutting through all the red tape, owner Kevin Healy and his staff are now ready to crank it into high gear.
"It is very exciting and rewarding at the same time,” Healy said. “Pulling together all the permits and the 'prepermits' was a little stressful. But I'm glad that part of the opening process is over. Now I am able to do what I know and love, and that is run a restaurant."
To celebrate the Boathouse’s opening, Healy threw several preliminary parties with many of the restaurant’s closest friends invited. These parties – more like staff-practice sessions – were for the purpose of testing the restaurant’s new equipment, Healy told me, including the state-of-the-art computer system installed in the kitchen.
Each cooking station is equipped with its own computer monitor. That tells the cook exactly what he needs to do to keep track of preparation time, eliminating the confusion and disorder that usually causes food delays.
Simply put, it’s fine dining meets fast food tech. And so far, Healy said, everything has been running up to snuff.
Anyone who has started a business can tell you how nerve-racking it is. And even though Healy has a successful restaurant in Chesterfield, those butterflies never disappear entirely.
But his hunch is proving dead-on.
“Business so far has been very good and met all my expectations,” he said. “It’s exciting to see people taking family photos on our balcony. One man even came up to me and said, ‘Thanks so much. You’ve made Richmond a better city.’”
Such an aura and service was apparent the other night when a date and I decided to escape the August heat down by the river and dabble in what the Boathouse had to offer.
Upon ascending the steps surrounding the restaurant’s smokestack, we were greeted not only by a friendly hostess, but also a massive wine display.
I decided on a Pinot Grigio and began to deliberate over the menu.
Tempted by the Mojito Glazed Duck, I opted to mix and match the Seared Ahi Tuna appetizer with half a Crunchy Shrimp Roll, while my date chose the Crab and Artichoke Dip and Chesapeake Oysters on a Half-Shell.
The glow of the fire place and brick pizza oven fills the restaurant’s spacious dining room with a warm energy. Moreover, the pulsating hum of the crickets and katydids seeping through the restaurant’s bay windows and patio accompanies the lively chatter from the surrounding tables.
Though at times, the dining area got a little noisy, this is not something that Healy hasn’t taken into account.
"We are actually dealing with two issues that most of our patrons have probably already noticed,” he said. “The first one is the restaurant is a little louder than we would like. So, we are going to install some sound absorbers on the ceiling of the dining room. Secondly, the sun is kind of annoying at sunset. As fall approaches this will be less of an issue. But nevertheless, we are in the process of getting a quote on some blinds to remedy the situation. Both these issues we anticipate will be resolved by September."
To say the least, the restaurant’s energy cuts the already short wait for your food seemingly in half. The appetizer portions were perfect for sharing, for those who cannot decide between all the choices, and there is always something to be said about having the convenient excuse to come back for the Mojito Glazed Duck.
Healy is also still putting the final touches on the restaurant’s tented, outdoor pavilion. He recently met with the landscape architect and anticipates that it will be finished by September as well.
Photo: Captain's Blog
The temporary Garden of Eden
Friday, August 21, 2009
What a difference a year makes. And I’m not even talking about the complete restoration/renovation of the Power Plant building, which now has a restaurant open for business (more on that in a week or so…)
Nope. It’s the garden. Where there are 30 percent more plots this year than last (another 13). And it’s the place to meet other residents, says Jennifer Grubbs, who was pulling weeds and watering earlier this week.
“You can just come out here and get to know your neighbors,” Grubbs said, pointing out that some plots have little signs saying, “Water Me.”
Grubbs, who lives in Cedar Works http://www.rockettsvillage.com/cedar-works-residences.asp, said there was so much interest from residents, that Rocketts built another row of plots. She also said that the current garden location is temporary as the project evolves.
“The soil is much better this year than last,” she told me. “And you can see that I use mounds to plant. I put existing plants in the ground.”
At Grubb’s request, Rocketts also added another hose at the far end.
But despite constant watering, the veggies and flowers are starting to get that August wilt.
Snorkeling in the James
Monday, August 17, 2009
You don’t have to travel to the Caribbean to go snorkeling.
The Times-Dispatch has a must-watch multimedia presentation about snorkeling in the James. You can watch it here
The show accompanied a neat article that ran on Monday.
Writes Rex Springston, “There is nothing quite like grabbing your mask and snorkel, plunging into the refreshing James River and coming face to face with a huge catfish.”
Catfish lovers may also want to read a story Springston wrote today about the river equivalent of poachers. You can see that one here.
Adventure race on the James, Part II
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Longtime blog readers might remember last October, when I told the tale of my first 24-hour adventure race.
My team completed 45 miles of a 100 mile race, and the hardest part was sitting on the bottom of a canoe for five hours as we paddled a stretch of the James River near Buckingham County. (Never let anyone tell you that three people can fit comfortably in a canoe.)
(I didn't bring a camera and couldn't find any good pictures of the race from anyone else)
Well, I was at it again two weeks ago, this time a bit farther west on the James, and the canoe got the best of me yet again.
The Odyssey One-Day adventure race started in New Castle, Va.
New Castle is one of the most remote spots in Virginia, in a county that’s almost half national forest. The lush mountains frame the one-stop-sign main street. The Craig Creek winds 30 or so miles through low-lying farm land until it pours into the James River.
The race started Saturday, but camping out on Friday we got almost no sleep.
The gun went off at 4:30 a.m. And 200 adventurers from up and down the East Cost (I bumped into teams from Florida, Atlanta and Maryland) were off.
After a two-mile jog, biking up and down a 3,000-foot mountain (and by biking, I also mean walking my bike up hills), and hiking to find checkpoints 4 miles apart, my teammate and I got in the canoes.
But before we could push off, we had to strap down our mountain bikes into the canoe. The key was to take off the front tire.
I steered from the back, but when you have your food and your mountain bikes in the canoe with you, the rapids are more stressful than just a summer paddle.
Then the thunder started. And then several canoes passed us. And then I opened my backpack to grab my lunch, a PB&J sandwich. Note to self, in future races make sure Ziploc bags are zipped tightly. Same with the little bags of Wheat Thins. They filled with James River water.
But when you’ve biked for 6 hours, hiked all day and are hitting the 12-hour mark, your brain starts misfiring. Hence eating soggy Wheat Thins that went for a spin cycle in the James.
And a few hours later, I started seeing things in the night. A tree looked like a goblin. The forest road seemed to veer one way but then when I got up close, it clearly went another.
At that point we had been up for two days and were trying to get to the finish line by 4:30 a.m. And we did. We came in third in the coed division after carrying our bikes across one final creek.
Several of the racers also do three- and five-day races. That sounds crazy to me.
But most people think the 24-hour race is crazy.
The Origins Of The James River
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
The latest edition of the "James River Journal" came out in the Richmond Times-Dispatch on Monday. The article focused on the origins of the James. Reportedly, it’s not located where you might think it is. . .
(See the link below.)
http://www.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/JAME20_20090719-222806/281038/
Photo: flickr user the other eric cohen
A Boathouse Restaurant Update
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Last week I toured the Boathouse Restaurant building site at Rocketts Landing with owner Kevin Healy. There is a lot of saw dust everywhere and loose wires hanging from the ceiling. But Healy reassured me that by mid-August it will be open for business.
“I am more than satisfied with the building project thus far,” he said. “We are ahead of schedule and under budget.”
Healy said he is throwing a three-day party for friends and family when it opens.
Upon entering the restaurant, he said guests will come face to face with a massive wine shelf. In 2008, the Brandermill Boathouse Restaurant Healy currently owns and operates on the Swiftcreek Reservoir in Chesterfield won the Wine Spector Award of Excellence, an honor given to 3,249 restaurants in the U.S. that typically offer at least 100 wine selections. Healy aims to uphold that achievement at the Boathouse Restaurant at Rocketts Landing but also change a few things in terms of ambiance and tablefare.
“We’ll still have an open-air, wood-stone pizza oven and fire place, but the new restaurant will be less suburban than the one at Brandermill and more sophisticated,” he said.
Eight new Maki rolls, a larger selection of oysters, more “interesting” pizza ingredients and a wider variety of steaks will be the difference between the two restaurants’ menus, according to Healy. All these new dishes will be cooked in a state-of-the-art kitchen with specialized equipment like a Ruth’s Chris broiler that can reach temperatures of 1,800 degrees and a la Plancha, which is a Spanish-style fish cooking surface that equalizes heat distribution.
“Because we have so many seats at the Brandermill restaurant, we have to do more with less,” Healy said. “The Rocketts restaurant will be much smaller so that is why we are able to expand the menu.”
The chef for the new boathouse restaurant has not been announced yet, but Healy did say that he will be “a local” and that the Rocketts Landing restaurant will additionally employ at least 35 servers and 18 cooks.
A total of 16 booths and an in-door/outdoor bar will line the restaurant floor and a community table for big parties will be at the center of the main dining area. Also Healy said that private parties will be able to rent the Harbor Masters Head Quarters located on the top floor of the power plant building for special occasions.
“This will not only be my flagship restaurant, but we are hoping it will also be Richmond’s flagship restaurant and a premier restaurant in Central, Virginia,” Healy said.
A Brew Story About Rocketts Landing
Monday, July 13, 2009
After the Civil War, thousands of entrepreneurs from the North flooded the business markets of the defeated Southland’s major cities. Richmond was no exception. And among the budding business men headed to the capitol city was David Yuengling Jr., a second-generation German immigrant with beer brewing in his blood.
In 1866, Yuengling Jr. established the James River Steam Brewery at Rocketts Landing. The brewery was America’s first fully steam powered brewery and was located on grassy area just north of Fall Line.
In 1829, Yuengling Jr.’s father, David Sr., established D.G. Yuengling and Son, the oldest operating brewery in the US. The newly founded establishment was called the Eagle Brewery back then. And for more reasons than one, David Jr. decided to leave it in 1866 to set up shop on the banks of the James River, according to Brooks Smith, the author of Facts and Legends: The Hills of Richmond.
“Back then, Richmond was known as a place for saloons, old-country beer recipes and all around good cheer,” said Smith, whose book examines the historical significance of the many hills surrounding Rocketts Landing. “Not only that, breweries from up North were especially attracted to the city’s cheap labor force and river access.”
Ice was imported up the James River on barges from Maine in order to keep freshly brewed beer cold. According to Smith, this was an expensive endeavor given the long distance the ice had to travel and the city’s warm climate.
“A lot of breweries in Richmond went out of business on account of how expensive the ice was,” he said.
In addition to importing ice, deep cellars were dug around the James River Steam Brewery to keep the stored beer out of the sunlight and as cold as possible. The oldest beer cellar in Richmond, Smith said, is on Chimborazo Hill, north of Rocketts Landing. It served as a bomb shelter during World War II, but was filled with dirt sometime after that to keep out trespassers.
Rocketts Landing has its own abandoned beer cellar just behind the new pool. The cellar is now fenced off and has standing water on the floor. But it once would have been lined with clean brick and stacked with crates of beer. That is until the James River Steam Brewery closed only a couple years after its opening. The reason why and the exact date the brewery was shuttered remain unknown Smith said.
Rumor has it though that there are plans to turn the old beer cellar at Rocketts Landing into a restaurant in commemoration of the James River Steam Brewery. Smith said he supports the idea. But before any building takes place, he would like to put on some hip waders and take a look around down there.
Photo: Flickr user Ourkid
Tying-up at the New Rocketts Marina
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
The marina at Rocketts Landing is finally starting to look like – well – a marina. Bayliners, SunTrackers and Benningtons are just a few of the boats occupying 17 of the newly built dock slips.
Now residents motor along the banks of the James River, watching the occasional water skier pass by and enjoying the sunset. It surely helps, too, that the last few weeks have been unseasonably pleasant.
The slips at the new marina cost $10 per foot a month for an annual lease, and five are reserved for transient boaters who wish to visit Richmond by water and park their boat for up to 45 days.
Most resident boat owners purchased their boats just after the marina opened on May 1st, according to Eileen Davis, the proud owner of a double-decker, 24-foot Sylvan pontoon boat.
Davis says she grew up around boats on the New Jersey shore, and that she and her husband, Martin, are currently “transitioning” from their house in the far west end, near Short Pump Town Center, to their condo in Fall Line.
“When I first moved to Richmond 15 years ago, I couldn’t understand why the city’s beautiful waterfront was undeveloped,” she said. “My husband and I decided to move to Rocketts when we found out they were planning to build condos with water access. We intend to retire to our condo at some point after our daughter graduates from college, but for now, having it and the new boat is like having a vacation house without the long drive.”
Davis currently teaches nursing at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, and for her, weekends at Rocketts Landing and dinner onboard the new boat is the perfect way to unwind after a long week.
“The new marina is a genial environment that always seems to put me in a good mood,” she said. “Everybody is always lending a hand and giving each other boating advice. It’s just another fun thing to do and talk about with your neighbors.”
Davis expects more slips at the marina to fill up once the economy takes a turn for the better. She also thinks the opening of the new Boathouse Restaurant will play a role in attracting a significant amount of boat traffic to the area, but she isn’t concerned.
“The more the merrier,” she said. “Even if they extend the marina all the way to the club house and more boats come, I don’t think too much traffic will be an issue. Rocketts Landing is a deep water port and the James River is wider than you think.”
A part from having dinner on the water, Davis also enjoys viewing all the wildlife the area has to offer, especially the rare birds.
“Out on the water we’ve spotted turtles, herons and even a Peregrine Falcon,” she said. “The falcons have almost disappeared from the Richmond-area, but we saw one right there from the deck of our boat.”
Get Pumped for the New Fitness Center
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Little by little, Rocketts residents are learning more about one-another. Now that the fitness center at 210 Rock is open, they will know who can bench press 250 pounds, and who flexes in the mirror between every set.
The fitness center location is not meant to be permanent but has most of what you need to stay in shape, from elliptical machines and treadmills to stack weights and dumbbells. Also, let’s not forget the flat-screen TV.
Construction on the 1,800 square-foot, two room site began back in April and was completed last month. It will serve as temporary location for Rocketts residents to exercise until the riverfront community center, which will house the permanent gym, is completed.
“Access to an onsite fitness center is part of the Rocketts homeowners’ package,” said Community Manager, Amanda Madden. “I think that everyone here is pleased to have a place to exercise until the community center opens.”
A number of residents took advantage of an informational workout session this past weekend. The session was hosted by Teresa Glauser of Elite Fitness Systems, the company that outfitted the new fitness center with its exercise equipment.
“I showed the class how to use each piece of equipment safely and effectively,” Glauser said. “People want to see results when they’re exercising. So, it is important to learn to do things right.”
Yes, that means you, Mr. cut-off sleeves, grunting bench-presser.
Glauser also runs the personal training business, Take Action, and she hopes that Rocketts residents will opt for more private fitness classes at the new fitness center in the future.
“I’m already meeting with two ladies from this past weekend’s class again on Friday,” she said. “I’d also like the residents to do a survey on what exercise classes they would be willing to attend at what times. When it comes to exercise, it’s important to give people not what you think they are interested in but what they want.”
The new fitness center is open to all residents 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you can contact Teresa Glauser at (804) 432-1251 to set up an appointment.
The Rare Civil War-Era Pottery Beneath Rocketts
Monday, June 01, 2009
A team led by Robert Hunter from the Center for Archeological Research at William and Mary University recently excavated hundreds of American Stoneware pieces at Rocketts Landing. The stoneware is believed to be the product of David Parr Jr., a prominent post-Civil War potter from Richmond.
Parr established a pottery in Richmond around the 1850’s somewhere near Rocketts Landing, but no one knows exactly where. His American stoneware is highly sought after by collectors, and Hunter feels he might be on to something, given the abundance of “wasters” or broken pieces of stoneware found during the recent excavation at Rocketts.
“The area has huge potential to be the location of Parr’s kiln or maybe even one of his storage facilities,” Hunter said. “During a dig, we have never before encountered so much of his stoneware.”
The term stoneware refers to the predominant house ware of nineteenth century North America –pottery usually covered in a salt glaze and often decorated using bright blue cobalt oxide. The vernacular term “crocks” is often used to describe the pottery, and it is thought to have originated in Germany during the 1400’s.
No one has ever found a stoneware factory belonging to David Parr Jr. For this reason, his work is extremely rare and sells for thousands of dollars. One of the most significant vessel he has produced is the twenty-gallon salt-glazed stoneware cooler decorated with an incised American eagle and on display at the Virginia Historical Society.
No fully intact Parr pieces were found during the recent dig at Rocketts.
“Collectors, of course, want whole pieces to display in their houses,” said Hunter. “For us though a fragment is just as good. We’re more interested in the historic value of Parr’s work.”
The dig was funded in part by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, and Hunter is currently in the process of raising more money for a second visit. Dan Boyer, a sales associate at Rocketts Landing, volunteered during the excavation and would like to see the search for the Parr kiln continue.
“With permission from the Rocketts community we would like to dig as much as possible in order to preserve and promote the rich legacy of the area and the city,” he said. “We have even discussed the installment of a small museum on site to display all our findings and maintain that legacy.”
Editor’s Note: Robert Hunter asked that the Captain’s Blog encourage people not to encroach upon the areas excavated for fear of damage that could be imposed upon the historic stoneware potentially located there.
Photos / Robert Hunter
Jump On In
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Break out the 30-SPF and floaties. The pool at Rocketts Landing is finally open and not a moment too soon. The temperature in Richmond is rising!
In order to scope out the scene, I stopped by the other day to snap a few photos. These young residents were enjoying the cool water.
Photos / Captain's Blog
Athletes Make the Most of Triathlon Despite Bad Weather
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The river showed no mercy at Richmond’s first Olympic distance triathlon hosted by Rocketts Landing. The race was a USAT sanctioned event coordinated by Richmond Multisports, a triathlon production company that hosts a total of seven races each year in Central Virginia.
Because the weather did not cooperate, the swimming portion of the triathlon set to take place in the James River was cancelled. Nevertheless, spirits were still high among the 192 competing athletes, 70 volunteers and several hundred spectators, according to Race Director Laurie Mehler.
"Luckily we had ‘Plan B’ as a back-up just in case something like this happened,” Mehler said. “Despite all our preparation, we had to run an abridged version of the triathlon.”
The swimming section of the race was supposed to be a rectangular course on the James River scheduled to start and finish at the Rocketts Landing marina. When the first few swimmers entered the water, however, they were quickly swept away by the current and forced to cling on to the kayaks and jetskies of the volunteers monitoring the race.
“It just wasn’t safe to go in the water,” Mehler said. “I really wish I could have pushed the edit button on Mother Nature. It was very disheartening see, but everybody said they still enjoyed the other two legs of the race and had a good time overall.”
The bike portion of the abridged triathlon weaved through eastern Henrico County toward Battlefield Park, down Osborne Turnpike and back to Rocketts Landing via Varina Road. The running portion went west from Rocketts through Richmond over the 14th Street Bridge and onto the James River Park flood wall cinder path.
Richmond Multisports raised money for the Challenged Athletes Foundation, and at the post race awards ceremony a free scooter from Partnership for Smarter Growth was raffled away. Many Rocketts residents also joined in on the catered, post-race party with music provided by DJ Williams Project.
“We have never staged a triathlon in a residential community, and it really made a huge difference,” Mehler said. “The residents at Rocketts you can tell are real tight-knit group and were very supportive. Moreover, the Rocketts staff is the total package and works like a well-oiled machine. They provided everything we need in the face of the bad weather.”
Instead of a marked course, next year Mehler would like the swim portion of the race to be a straight-shot that starts at an alternate point down river and finishes at Rocketts marina.
“Now that we have this first race under our belts and experienced the bad weather, it should get easier in years to come,” she added. “I anticipate by word-of-mouth the Rocketts triathlon will be our biggest event in two years.”
Photo / JFordPhotography.com
Cap2Cap ride: the sequel
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Followers of this blog may recall that last year we produced a multimedia slideshow for the Cap2Cap bike ride, which is a popular road ride to raise money for a bike path linking downtown Richmond with Williamsburg. The trail will traverse Rocketts Landing adjacent to the marina.
This year I left the camera at home and jumped on my mountain bike for 50 miles. That’s the farthest I’ve ever pedaled. But fifty miles goes faster than you’d think -- or at least the almost four hours it took me to complete the 50 went faster than, say, four hours at work. And the weather held up wonderfully, which is a risk in Richmond in May.
Joining me were around 1,400 riders. Last year participants met at Dorey Park, but this year we started and ended at Rocketts Landing, and riders could choose to pedal 25, 50 or 100 miles.
The shade of the rural roads was especially pleasant, and the air had that just-rained smell you only get in the countryside. I don’t drive that way too often, and it surprised me and several other riders in my pack how quickly the land turns rural in Eastern Henrico.
In only its second year, the Cap2Cap ride has a cult following. Beth Weisbrod, the executive director of the Capital Trail Foundation, said attendance increased 40% compared to last year. The foundation is still determining how much the event raised, but the money is used for trail enhancements, such as signs and benches.
While I generally call it a bike path, it’s technically a multi-use trail and will likely see heavy action from pedestrians and joggers, especially close to downtown Richmond.
Last year the routes took riders from Eastern Henrico to various points on the way to Williamsburg. This year the routes were loops through verdant farmland. That change eliminated the need for shuttles.
And this year there was a more festive spirit.
“The layout of Rocketts is perfect for the race because it is so close to the trail and on the east side of Richmond, the side closest in proximity to Williamsburg," said Tim Miller, the event director.
"Now that Rocketts Landing is the host of the Cap2Cap race we've been able to add a bunch of bells and whistles to the event like the VIP breakfast, beer truck, lights and live music. We're really trying to make this race more exciting and attract more bikers, kind of like the Tour de France."
Photo / Captain's Blog
A Day at the Derby with a View of the James River
Thursday, May 07, 2009
The rain hardly let up. But the dance floor was packed, and the juleps were to-die-for at the Richmond Ballet’s 16th Annual Kentucky Derby Day Party.
Rocketts Landing presented the event, and Aaron Sutton, director of marketing and communications for the Richmond Ballet, called it “another huge success.”
Nearly three hundred people attended the outdoor party located underneath a massive tent on the Rocketts Landing central quad. And everyone came dressed to impress. Powell Harrison, owner of the clothing store Harrison’s of Leesburg, gave his approval.
“There are a lot of good looking outfits and cool people here,” he said.
As the early arrivers filtered in, I indulged in the crab cakes and oysters Weyanoke dished up by David Napier’s Whitehouse catering. The band 3rd Wave also took the stage at this time, providing the smooth rhythmic melodies that set the uplifting mood leading up to the Derby.
The Derby was broadcast on a big screen projector to the right of the stage, and not a person in attendance was seated as Mind That Bird pulled away from the pack for the long-shot victory. I even saw a little money change hands as a few friendly bets were paid and dinner was served.
The buffet included BBQ beef brisket with horse radish sauce, seared Rockfish with a classic beurre blanc, Chicken Saté, and a Mediterranean pasta salad.
After the dinner, the Richmond Ballet held a raffle which featured such prizes as a seven night stay at the Outer Banks, a sterling silver necklace from Peter Alexander, two round trip tickets on JetBlue Airways, and four tickets to see the Richmond Ballet’s 2009 performance of The Nut Cracker.
The sun began to set over the Richmond skyline, as the second band of the evening BUTTER took the stage. By this time it didn’t take much – a cover of the Bee Gees’ “Staying Alive” – to get everybody back on their feet and doing the Hustle.
All the proceeds of the event went to the Richmond Ballet, and a lot of people had their chance to experience Rocketts for the first time.
“I haven’t been back here since the development project first began, and I can definitely see a big difference,” said event planner, Wendy Ewees. “The place is really coming along.”
Photo / JFordPhotography.com
That's a Big Cat!
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Last week, this photo was taken at the newly opened Rocketts Landing marina. I don’t know much about the angler featured in the photo. But I do know he landed this enormous catfish in a kayak on the James River in front of Rocketts early one morning. It’s a Blue Catfish for sure, judging by the shape of the head and fins. The largest Blue Cat caught in the State of Virginia weighted 92 pounds 4 ounces. If I had to guess, I’d say this fish weighs at least 25 pounds - not bad for a spot located just outside of Richmond.
Photo / Used With Permission
Shad We Go Fishing
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The shad are running in full force this spring. And hundreds of fishermen can now be seen casting for the spawning fish along the James River near Rocketts Landing.
Shad can grow to be as big as eight pounds. They reproduce in the James because it has an abundance of moving water. The current is necessary for the fish’s eggs to properly hatch.
Jess Cadwallender has been fishing for shad on the James and Rappahannock Rivers since he was young. Cadwallender holds an IGFA (International Game Fishing Association) World Record, and he drives a Jeep Cherokee with a Virginia license plate that reads, “SHDRUN.”
“This year we’re seeing a strong run,” he said. “The shad will populate the rivers as far south as Florida and some of them come from as far north as Prince Edward Island, Canada. Legend has it; the spawning fish saved Gen. George Washington’s army from starvation at Valley Forge during the Revolutionary War. ”
When fishing for shad it is important to remember that they, like any fish, do not fight the current all the time. They sometimes seek the edge of current rips, less turbulent water behind rocks, and the relatively calm water in feeder creeks.
Shad can be caught on a variety of lures, the most popular being small “shad dart” jigs and small gold or silver spoons.
“Every year there is always somebody down by the river peddling their homemade darts, claiming they're the best,” Cadwallender told me. “Sabiki rigs have grown in popularity lately as well. Each Sabiki rig has eight to twelve hooks on it with artificial fish skin or feathers attached.”
In terms of fly tackle sinking fly line is a requisite, as shad for the most part like to stay deep in the current. A short eighteen-inch leader is all that is needed, and small clouser-type flies in a variety of colors work well.
A lot of people eat shad despite their boney flesh. After scaling the fish, I cut a filet off each side. I then rinse each filet and with the skin side down make half-way deep perpendicular cuts through the meat at quarter inch intervals. Salt, pepper, roll in corn meal, and then fry the filet until crispy. The slices in the meat cook the small bones, making them edible.
Cadwallender, on the other hand, likes to eat the shad eggs most of all. “I sauté the row in a pan with bacon and lemon juice and sometimes mix it all in with my scrambled eggs at breakfast. It’s not a bad way to start your day.”
Photo / Flickr user Western Sport Shop
At Home on the Water
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Recently I chatted with the President of the Virginia Boat Club (VBC), Mark Willis.
Mark has been a friend of the blog, on several occasions explaining what would possess a sane man to row on the James River at an ungodly hour. He and his wife, Therese, moved to Sky Line at Rocketts Landing two years ago.
(Below is an edited transcript of our chat)
Captain’s Blog: How long have you been the president of the VBC?
Mark Willis: Since January 2008
CB: The club has been around for a long time. What's it like being the president of an organization with such longevity?
MW: It is an honor. The Virginia Boat Club's origins date back to 1888. In the late 1800s and the first half of the 1900s, rowing was a very popular sport on the lower James. The club's boathouse on Mayo Island was the hub of quite the social scene. In the last couple of years, we have seen resurgence in rowing. My goal for the club is to capitalize on this interest and the great rowing waters that we have here in Richmond.
CB: How does someone join the VBC?
MW: First, check out the VBC web site at http://virginiaboatclub.org/. This will give you some basic information about the club and our programs. Next, just send an email to me (mark@virginiaboatclub.org) or one of the officers letting us know of your interest. Members have access to all of the regular programs, facilities and equipment owned by the club. We are also having an open house at the downtown boathouse (4400 E. Main St.) at 9:00 am on Saturday, May 2. The spring session of classes will begin the following Saturday.
CB: How long has the VBC been operating out of Rocketts Landing?
MW: Since 1986
CB: Why Rocketts Landing?
MW: The club has always had a boathouse on the lower James. We are a part of the city and want to be a part of all of the development along the river.
CB: How did you get interested in rowing?
MW: Three years ago, my wife, Therese, and I took the VBC Learn-to-Row class. We had a great instructor and met a lot of new and interesting people. Rowing was a great complement to the other sporting activities that we were involved in, so we joined the club.
CB: What do you like most about it?
MW: As a fitness activity, rowing is quite beneficial. You get the aerobic conditioning of running or biking, the strength training of weights or machines, and core and balance training all rolled into one activity.
Rowing is also very relaxing -- being out on the water in the early morning or evening is serene and calming. There's nothing like gliding along the glassy surface of the river with the sun coming up over the trees.
In addition, the social aspects of rowing are great. Rowing crew develops teamwork and camaraderie. We like to party after getting off the water -- whether it's the Wednesday evening "Row-and-Poe", a summer picnic or holiday get together.
CB: How did the Rocketts Landing Collegiate Regatta go?
MW: Even though the Rocketts Landing Collegiate Regatta had to be called off midway through the event due to high winds and waves, I think that the race showed its potential for the future. We had good attendance from teams in Virginia, North Carolina and Maryland. The athletes and coaches loved the venue and said that they would return next year. We also had quite a few spectators and media coverage.
Photo / Virginia Boat Club
Making Port at Rocketts Landing
Thursday, April 23, 2009
The marina at Rocketts Landing is coming-about. Forty of the planned 125 floating dock slips are complete and scheduled to open May 1st.
The slips hug the James River’s east bank and will cost boaters $10 per foot a month for an annual lease. Fifteen of the 40 slips have already been reserved – ten by Rocketts Landing residents (who receive first dibs) and five by non-residents.
In hopes of learning more on how the marina was constructed, I spoke with Jason Vickers-Smith of The WVS Companies (the developer of Rocketts Landing). In 2001, Vickers-Smith spearheaded the building of the 158-slip marina at Belmont Bay on the Occuquon River, a few miles south of Mount Vernon.
Unlike at Belmont Bay, the floating docks at the Rocketts Landing marina were constructed without any pilings and only with steel trusses holding them in place. The pivoting steel trusses measure 30-40 feet in length and are anchored just above the shoreline.
According to Vickers-Smith, it would have been expensive and environmentally unsound to drive pilings into the riverbed in front of Rocketts Landing. A thick layer of solid rock lines the riverbed in front of Rocketts, and the soil surrounding the bedrock stores a lot of the river’s pollutants (from long-ago days when the area was used for industry). Drilling would have required costly machinery and released the potentially harmful pollutants into the water.
“The design of the docks using the pivoting steel arms instead of pilings might seem unusual, but it is not uncommon,” Vickers-Smith said. “So far, it has worked well.”
Other noticeable features of the marina are the wooden crib-docks left over from the early 1900s when Rocketts Landing was a thriving commercial port. Vickers-Smith said the marina was built around the crib docks to maintain an historic element.
The depth of the water at the docks varies from 6 feet to 7 feet at low tide. That should be more than enough room for most James River powerboats with a draft of 2-3 feet. No yachts or sail boats have signed onto a slip, but Vickers-Smith says he is hoping to be “pleasantly surprised” by the birth of one or two.
Vickers-Smith also says that The WVS Companies is considering the purchase of a boat that will be kept at the marina.
There are no plans in place as of yet for the marina’s opening day. However, Vickers-Smith said at some point he would like to host an event that celebrates the opening of the new Boathouse restaurant and the new marina simultaneously.
Flying with Tom Stiles of Sky Shots
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Last week, I was 1,000 feet above Rocketts Landing and about to lose my lunch.
“Alright go ahead and bank the plane at 45 degrees so that I can get a better shot,” Tom said to the pilot as he was leaning out the back seat window. “That’s it . . . a little more . . . perfect!”
He lifted the camera closer to his eye and snapped a few pictures as we circled out over the James River.
In the front seat of the Cessna 172 dubbed 28 November, I was gripping my armrest with white knuckles. The wind was blowing at about 15 knots and shaking the plane’s cabin with a dizzying force.
“How are you doing up there, Ben?” Tom shouted at me, looking up for a moment from his camera.
“Great,” I said.
But as we pulled out of the turn, I could feel my stomach sink and then rise into my throat. I tried my hardest not to throw-up.
Tom, on the other hand, was constantly moving around and looking for a better camera angle, seemingly unaffected by the turbulence. He founded Sky Shots, an aerial photography company based out of Hanover County Airport, in 1999 and has been snapping photos of the Rocketts Landing development project since construction began.
Having flown in a small plane twice before, I jumped at the invitation to join him on a photo shoot. I prefer to be on the ground or out on the water but still enjoy the thrill of flying. I also wanted to see Rocketts Landing from a bird’s-eye-view.
When I met Tom at the airport, he greeted me with a big smile and had a giant camera bag slung over his shoulder. We toured around the airfield, and he showed me some of his latest work which hangs on the walls in the airport lobby.
In one flight, Tom usually tries to fit in as many different sites as he can, and on this particular afternoon, in addition to Rocketts Landing, we were going to take pictures of two other places along the river.
“I always like to take pictures of Rocketts in the afternoon,” he said. “The timing makes for a better shot from out over the James when you’re looking at the front of the development. The sun is in the west, and the shadows of all the buildings are pointing away from the water to the east.”
A part from the blustering wind, we couldn’t have asked for a better day to fly. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky, and the temperature was somewhere in the mid-seventies. Despite my nausea, I can easily say the trip was worth it.
Along the way to Rocketts Landing, we passed over the Richmond International Raceway, the Richmond Braves’ old baseball stadium and Monument Ave.
As we approached Rocketts Landing, we began to slow down and fly in a giant circle. A blast of fresh air rushed into cabin just as Tom opened the window to take pictures.
From the airplane Rocketts Landing looked spectacular. One of the location’s most noticeable characteristics was how much it stands out amidst all the old industrial buildings and parks surrounding Richmond. This is something you can’t really get a feel for on a diagram or Google maps.
For the first time, I could truly see all the ways the development project could expand along the James River. About six or seven boats dotted the waterway, and the empty but almost complete Rocketts Landing docks looked like open arms ready to take them in.
Probably the most distinguishable building was The Boathouse Restaurant currently under construction. The tinted windows of the dining-area reflected the light from the river bank and contrasted heavily with the surrounding buildings and weathered smokestack leftover from the old power plant.
As we circled around once more, Tom took a few more pictures before we veered off.
“That’s great. Let’s go on to the next site,” he said.
photo / dpicreativeservices.com
Visitors come by the bus-load to see lofts at Rocketts
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Everyone knows that a “boat load” is synonymous with a lot. You’d be surprised how big a” bus-load” is, too.
I learned this over the weekend as visitors were brought to Rocketts Landing by the bus load for the Downtown Loft Tour of Richmond.
The goal: to ooh and ahh at three beautifully furnished lofts. For some, it was their first chance to see Rocketts.
“I’m excited Richmond is doing this,” said Pat Zirkle, who was on the tour with her two daughters. “I love these kinds of events.”
Denny Petfield, a Richmond-native on the tour with his wife and another couple was equally excited. “I haven’t heard anything about the Rocketts Landing development project, but I’m interested to see how the buildings have been redone.”
Upon their arrival, visitors were ushered up to the top floor of 210 Rock. The two-story penthouse has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a panoramic view of the James River from the living room. Outside the condominium is also a winding stair case that leads up to a roof-top patio complete with a fire pit, dining-area and view of the Richmond skyline.
“We are excited to be a part of the Rocketts Landing concept,” said Beth Saunders, who has been living in the condo on weekends with her family of four since October. “We’re originally from South Boston, Virginia, and at first we questioned the idea of moving here. But now we enjoy it and are happy to share our home with others,” she said.
The next stop on the tour (no bus needed) was Cedar Works Condominiums, located across the street from 210 Rock. The two-story loft is actually two units put together and belongs to Jason Vickers-Smith, vice-president of The WVS Companies, the developer of Rocketts Landing. His loft has wonderful exposed brick and cedar beams.
“I fell in love with the place when we first started work at Rocketts Landing,” said Vickers-Smith. “I have been living here since September and am happy to be helping the project with this tour.”
The final stop was at Sky Line, which is a bit closer to the river. Judy Arenstein moved to Sky Line with her cat, Toby, from the Fan District. Her condo was on display.
Arenstein’s living room opens up onto a balcony overlooking the river and The Boathouse restaurant currently under construction (read more about that here). She said she is getting excited about the restaurant’s opening in the fall and looking forward to watching the Rocketts Landing Collegiate Regatta from the comfort of her home.
"I like the community that Rocketts Landing has to offer,” she said. “I felt isolated in other high-rises around Richmond. Plus, take a look out the window. You can’t beat that view.”
Choppy Waters for Spring Regatta
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Check out the choppy waters of the Rocketts Landing Collegiate Regatta from Sunday in this great Times-Dispatch video.
“High Winds led to choppy rough waters,” said the reporter, Jeremy Slayton.
Crew Time
Thursday, March 26, 2009
In an effort to kick off the spring season, the Virginia Boat Club and Rocketts Landing will host Richmond’s first – and only – major collegiate regatta.
The inaugural Rocketts Landing Collegiate Regatta will be held March 29th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and it will feature club crew teams from schools all around Virginia, including VCU, George Mason, NC State and the University of Maryland.
I caught up with Mark Willis, the President of the Virginia Boat Club, to find out more. Willis has been the president of the Virginia Boat Club for about a year and is also the faculty advisor for the crew team at VCU.
“In past years we have hosted what are called masters regattas with participants who are college graduates or row as a hobbie,” he said. “Because we’re hosting a collegiate regatta this year, we expect things to be a little different with more of a student atmosphere. We’re still waiting to hear back from a few schools, but I am confident there will be quite a number of teams and at least 400 spectators on the river.”
According to Willis, the regatta will consist of 25 races with teams divided into several different categories.
“They’re the ones who actually gave us the idea to host a collegiate event, and they have been extremely supportive financially and logistically,” said Willis. “Since Rocketts Landing’s involvement we have seen an increased interest in rowing at the Virginia Boat Club.”
The Virginia Boat Club has been using Rocketts Landing as a home port since 1987, and it even has its own dock located near the power plant. The club descended from one of the earliest rowing teams in the United States founded in 1876.
Willis says that regattas on the James River used to be more popular and draw thousands of spectators. This is why he is trying to expand the rowing program in Richmond and introduce the sport to younger athletes. The Virginia Boat Club offers numerous rowing classes for both beginner and advanced rowers, and Willis claims he in fact learned to row on a whim four years ago as a participant in one of these classes.
“I encourage everyone to try rowing,” he said. “It’s a good supplementary sport, a great way to stay in shape and a lot of fun to be on the water.”
Flying High Over Rocketts Landing
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Armed with a Canon single-lens reflex digital camera, Tom Stiles takes to the skies above Rocketts Landing. Stiles is the owner of Skyshots, a business that specializes in aerial photography, and he has been snapping photos of the Rocketts Landing development project from the cockpit of a Robinson R-22 airplane for the past three years.
During a photo shoot, Stiles and his co-pilot take anywhere from 50 to 60 digital photographs while maintaining an altitude of 1,000 feet, the minimum altitude allowed by FAA regulations.
“Many people do not have the opportunity to experience a bird’s-eye view of the Richmond-area first hand,” said Stiles during a phone interview. “So it’s nice to be able to share with those people what it’s like to be in the cockpit of an airplane through my photography.”
Sky Shots has been operating since 1999 and is currently based out of the Hanover County Airport. The company has been hurt by the recent economic downturn do to the lack of development projects in the Richmond-area. But Stiles says he still takes photos of about six to 10 sites a week.
The Rocketts Landing development project is of particular interest to Stiles because of its size and location.
“It’s nice to see a new development in the old, industrial landscape that surrounds Richmond,” he said. “Unlike other job sites which usually have only one square building, Rocketts Landing is made up of numerous buildings all set against a backdrop of the James River which depending on the weather changes color.”
Because Rocketts Landing is located within a five mile radius of the Richmond International Airport, Stiles must also be in constant radio contact with flight coordinators while taking photos of the development project.
The pilot has had an interest in photography since high school and learned how to fly as a result of his father, a retiree of the United States Air Force. He told me over the phone, “Flying lets you see the big picture which helps put the smaller issues in life into perspective.”
Photo
courtesy
Check back in a few weeks when we go up with Tom and post a handful more photos from above Rocketts.
The eagles have landed
Monday, March 16, 2009
The Times-Dispatch, in their neat series on the people and ecology of the James River, this week looks at eagles that live there. The population of our national bird almost disappeared because of chemicals, but has burst back on the scene.
“Today, a nearly 40-mile stretch of the tidal, freshwater James -- from the Dutch Gap area near Chester to eastern Charles City County -- harbors one of the country's top concentrations of eagles, herons and other fish-eating birds. The National Audubon Society has designated the region an Important Bird Area, a high compliment among conservationists.”
You can read the story here. I saw a bald eagle near the Nickel Bridge last year. It was amazing.
A taste of what's coming
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Last week I chatted with the restaurateur who will open Rocketts’ first eatery. This week I went to his current location in Midlothian.
Eating raw oysters on a deck surrounded by Virginia pines and waterfront views made me think summer was here. To sample the menu and ambience, (and hopefully glean some details on what we might expect) owner Kevin Healy invited me and a friend to the original Boathouse Restaurant at Brandermill (located on the Swiftcreek Reservoir in Chesterfield). Healy has owned The Boathouse for 21 years and told me that the Rocketts Landing restaurant will have similar table fare, waterfront outdoor seating and décor. He said it will also have the same selection of Chesapeake and Bluepoint oysters - Crassostrea Virginica.
To my satisfaction, The Boathouse oysters were about as fresh and juicy as could be. For an appetizer, my friend and I ordered half-a-dozen oysters Rockefeller and half-a-dozen raw Chesapeake oysters, which according to our waitress are saltier than the Blue Point oysters. The shallot vinaigrette accompanying the raw Chesapeake oysters was superb, and the Dijon spinach, Parmesan bread crumb and bacon combination of the oysters Rockefeller was cooked to a creamy perfection.
As my friend and I savored each morsel of the tasty mollusks, the sun set over the Swift Creek reservoir. A diverse and lively crowd that ranged from business men to couples and families gathered around the surrounding tables and outdoor bar. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the warm Sunday afternoon.
Chef Wood and Kevin Healy have been working together for the past 30 years, and they share ownership of The Baker’s Crust at Short Pump. Chef Wood will help Healy select the sous-chef to be in charge of The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing. He is known in some gourmet circles as the “The Architect of Food” for constructing such alternative appetizers as the Chicken and Avocado Egg Rolls my friend and I ordered after we finished our oysters. The egg rolls were fried to a flaky crispiness and came with excellent soy and apricot dipping sauces.
For the entree, I ordered the Daily Wood Grilled Mahi Mahi with mango pineapple salsa and Tillamook mashed potatoes. A large portion of filleted Mahi filled my plate and the tender, white fish was grilled to a medium temperature—just the way I like it. The mashed potatoes were also as smooth and silky as could be; however, the mango salsa could have been sweeter and didn’t compliment the potato side well.
My friend had the Crab Louis Salad which was large enough for two people and for $12 came with a hefty portion of Lump Crab meat. I would have preferred the asparagus in the salad to be grilled or sautéed instead of blanched, but all the remainder of the greenery was garden-fresh, and the Louis dressing was mixed with just the right amount of chili sauce.
We opted out of dessert. But, if we had any more room in our stomachs, we would have definitely chosen to finish the meal off with the Chocolate Mouse and Cheesecake Martini with raspberries, whipped cream and caramel.
Seeing as how it is much closer to the city, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing should a perfect place for Richmonders to wind down the workweek along the water with a glass of wine or beer. My very premature recommendation: the seafood – especially the oysters.
The inside scoop on The Boathouse Restaurant
Monday, March 09, 2009
Construction on the Boathouse Restaurant at Rocketts Landing is soon to be underway pending the allotment of a building permit by the City of Richmond. When we spoke on the phone, Kevin Healy, the owner, was in the process of picking out the restaurant’s dining room furniture. He said that once he receives the building permit, the restaurant will be completed and open for business in five to six months.
Healy has owned and managed the award-winning Boathouse Restaurant at Brandermill, (located on the Swift Creek Reservoir in Chesterfield Country,) for the past 21 years.
“Call me crazy for undertaking such a large business venture given the current state of the economy, but at the restaurant in Brandermill, we have been experiencing a double digit sales growth since September,” he said. “I expect a similar restaurant for downtown Richmond to not be that much different.”
Before acquiring the Boathouse, Healy worked as a manager for four years under the leadership of Richard Ripp, president of the Richmond-based Restaurant Company. He started out as a dishwasher in the food service business when he was fifteen years old and attributes the success of the Boathouse to affordable prices, thorough training and business research.
The Boathouse can house up to 250 people and has been a longtime participant in the Brandermill community, serving as a setting for numerous regattas, family reunions, business meetings and weddings.
“It is more than just a restaurant,” Healy said. “It’s a place to celebrate life’s events.”
To create a comparable sense of community to Healy aims to build a restaurant at Rocketts that can accommodate similar functions and occasions.
It will be built below the Harbor Masters office on the second and third floor of the old power plant overlooking the James River. Chefs Gary Wood and Cory Sheldon of the Boathouse are currently putting together a menu for the Rocketts Landing restaurant that will feature an extensive raw oyster bar, open-flamed prime steaks, fresh seafood and Neapolitan wood stone fired pizza.
The menu will be similar to that of the current restaurant, but Healy made it clear that the food offered at the Rocketts Landing restaurant will be better suited for Richmonders.
“We will always be tweaking the menu there, taking into consideration that Richmonders might want something different,” he said. “This is because I really want the restaurant at Rocketts Landing to evolve into a place of its own. It will be the only riverfront restaurant in Richmond and was almost meant to be.”
Check back next week as we take a closer took at the existing restaurant at Brandermill.
Finally some snow!
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Rocketts looks like a winter wonderland. Ok, maybe that's a bit cliche, but you gotta love the snow. There's gotta be some good sledding around Rocketts. I'll be ready for it next winter.
Not even some snow and ice can slow down the construction of the marina.
Touring Rocketts Landing with Chief Stephen Adkins of the Chickahominy Tribe
Friday, February 27, 2009
Little is known about the history of Rocketts Landing prior to Captain Christopher Newport's 1607 arrival on the Godspeed during his exploration of the James River. So, last week I took the opportunity to meet with Chief Steven Adkins of the Chickahominy tribe to discuss the significance of the area to Virginia's Native American community.
I met Chief Adkins early in the morning by the Rocketts Landing Boathouse restaurant construction site. It was a windy day but extremely warm for February.
"This is a beautiful place, isn't it?" Chief Adkins said, as we walked along the sidewalk that borders the James River. "This whole area was once extremely fertile, and the Native Americans of this region used it to grow such things as ceremonial tobacco and corn. In addition, these waters were once teaming with fish and these woods filled with game."
As we made our way east along the James, Chief Adkins told me about the United Indians of Virginia. The tribal group has reason to believe that Rocketts Landing is in the vicinity of the original birth place of Chief Powhatan, the father of Pocahontas and leader of the Powhatan Indians.
Chief Powhatan was originally named Wahunsenacawh in 1547. But he acquired the name Powhatan, which supposedly was the name of the Rocketts Landing-area at the time, when later on in his life he inherited the chiefdom of about 4-6 tribes. Through diplomacy and/or force Powhatan eventually assembled a total of about 30 tribes known as the Powhatan Confederacy by the time of the arrival of the European settlers in the early 17th century.
The Chickahominy, the Eastern Chickahominy, the Mattaponi, the Monacan, the Nasemond, the Pamunkey, the Rappahanock, and the Upper Mattaponi are eight tribes that were once a part of the Powhatan Confederacy and are still in existence today as members of the Virginia Council of Indians.
The Powhatan Confederacy most likely used the Rocketts Landing-area for trade, commerce and regular meetings, according to Chief Adkins.
"The Native Americans of this region were interested in the area for the same reasons that the European settlers were," he said. "It's protected by the falls, and it made trading with Western tribes more convenient on account of how it's easy to portage from river to river from this location."
In the near future, the Virginia Council of Indians and Chief Adkins plan to build a "meeting place" east of Rocketts Landing, because of the area's historical significance. The meeting place will be used as an educational facility and to commemorate Chief Powhatan and the forbearers of the Virginia Council of Indians.
"Take a look around," said Chief Adkins. "This is an attractive area that needs to be protected and used to educate the young folks about Native America culture."
Blue Herons are back
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The beloved Blue Herons are back to their habitat along the James River.
So reports Rex Springston, the environmental reporter at the Times-Dispatch. “The big birds, which spend much of the year in swamps to the southeast, returned to Richmond in late January or early February,” Springston reports.
“The heron colony, on an island, apparently was first reported in 2007, and it drew widespread attention just last year. The big colony, or rookery, is a first for the city.”
Blue Herons generally eat snakes, fish and other small mammals, so this is probably a sign that the local ecosystem is healthy.
The Riverkeeper
Monday, February 16, 2009
The Times-Dispatch has another story this morning in their wonderful series about the James River.
This one introduces us to David Sligh, the Upper James Riverkeeper with the James River Association. He kayaks various stretches and tries to keep an eye out for the health of the river.
Docks in the water
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The docks are going in along the banks of the James, and that’s gotta mean water-ski season is nearby.
The Times-Dispatch has the story complete with a very cool video.
Reporter Michael Martz asked developer Richard Souter about how the marina is progressing now that the economy has slowed.
He responded that the marina is part of the long-term plan. "At the end of the day, it's the only place in the city of Richmond where you can moor a boat," he said.
Look for a few more dock/marina posts in coming weeks.
Steady progress on the Capital Trail
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Earlier this week I was at a coffee shop downtown with a friend who started telling me about how exciting the Virginia Capital Trail was going to be. He did not know that I help out Rocketts Landing with this blog, or that I enjoy biking.
He told me that people here, “Don’t even know how great it will be” as if to say that Richmond can’t conceive of the future recreational impact. My friend, who manages a local business, also said it will be great for Shockoe Bottom shop keepers.
Refreshing to here such positive thoughts these days, no?
And it reminded me that it’s about time to check in again on the status and plans of the Capital Trail Foundation.
For those who haven’t been following, the Capital Trail is a bike path (you can also walk) that will connect Williamsburg to Richmond. It will pass along the James River at Rocketts Landing.
According to Executive Director Beth Weisbrod, with whom I spoke late this week, the various stages are progressing as expected. The trail is still on track to be completed in 2013. Right now, seven miles in Charles City County are under construction. Meanwhile in Richmond, construction on a piece near the Shiplock Park should start in the spring.
Beth also said the Foundation is looking to improve its popular Cap-to-Cap ride, which is on May 9th. I covered that event last year and was amazed at the turnout. Registration should open up online in a week or so, she said.
“We want to up the fun factor, make it feel more like the Tour de France,” she said. “We know we can make it even better and try to attract people who are new to cycling with some shorter distances, and people who don’t consider themselves avid cyclists.”
Please send blog ideas to ak@telosmedia.com
Where dogs run free
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
While most humans were cursing the cold streak that sent the mercury into the low teens, Niko loved it.
He’s a Shiba Inu http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiba_Inu, and his owner, Julie Francis, says he has extra energy when it gets cold.
Francis walks Niko around the property and along Route 5. Sometimes she takes him into the dog run, which is a fenced-in area parallel to Route 5.
Before the dog run was built, dog owners were walking their dogs next to Fall Line.
Now they have their own area and it’s fenced in, so dogs can go off-leash. There are also a few toys in the dog run.
As this point, Julie said she doesn’t know of any set hours where dog owners congregate. Right now there are about 15 dogs at Rocketts.
But as more and more people make Rocketts their home, it’s likely that before and after work will be popular times for dogs – and dog owners – to gather. At least that seems to be how it works at other “dog parks” around Richmond.
Winter!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Finally some real winter. The James is not frozen, but the railroad tracks look very cool.
Does anybody know how many days of bitter cold weather we'd need before the James does freeze?
Please email answers to ak@telosmedia.com.
He's not just the architect...he's also a resident
Friday, January 09, 2009
Last month we posted renderings of the Riverfront Terraces. I recently caught up with architect Jason Hopkins and asked him more about his vision for the five units, and asked him how he approaches the design process at Rocketts. (He also designed Fall Line and Sky Line.)
Below is an edited transcript of our chat:
Captain’s Blog: What did you have in mind when you started the design process?
Jason Hopkins: For me, the exterior finishes were important, including the materials of the building. It was a chance to change the pace and use a different style from the ones we have used already. We have townhomes that are pretty traditional and wanted to go with more elegant cladding.
I looked for more of a mid-century, post-war era look. That’s where the limestone townhome idea came from. If you think of like a New York townhome - you’ll see a taller town home instead of what is our modern day, traditional three-story one.
CB: Where exactly does the limestone come from?
JH: It comes out of Texas.
CB: We heard early on that the Fan was sort of a precedent. Is that the case?
JH: The second phase will probably be more like the Fan. But this is a departure. Actually, there’s a couple townhomes in the Fan that use stone, so in that’s sense there is some precedent. But it’s not the majority of the Fan row houses.
CB: What specific features will the townhomes have?
JH: They will have solid wood entry doors. It’s really a custom door. Then there is the limestone itself, which is a much more classic elegant material than brick. There are also French balconies with wrought-iron railings. And there are metal penthouses at the roof decks with large expanses of windows. And that does not even go into the interior finishes/amenities.
CB: When you design a new phase at Rocketts, do you have a prototypical customer in mind?
JH: We design around an idea of a lifestyle. The Terraces start at $1 million, so that’s definitely a niche market. I think as an architect, I try to think of just the townhome as a whole and not gear it toward a particular user the way I would a custom home. I can foresee empty nesters coming here and living with less upkeep while not having to downsize (in a 4,000 square-foot townhome). I can also see a family living here; a family similar to mine. I have two kids.
CB: They’ll have elevators, which is a departure from the other sets of townhomes.
JH: That was an important feature. Not only does it add to the elegant feel of the town home, it offers the opportunity to age.
CB: The river is quite literally a stone’s throw away. How did you the proximity to the James play into your design?
JH: I definitely wanted to open up as many views as possible to the river. We really tried to get some bigger windows, taller windows, and have balconies on each floor that face the river. All the units have public balconies. All the units have balconies in the master bedrooms. Those also face the river. Then there are rooftop decks overlooking the water.
CB: The Capital Trail will be below the townhomes. Will it present privacy problems?
JH: The Capital Trail will come where the railroad tracks are now. The townhomes sit 25 feet up (to the street level), so it’s not likely privacy would be an issue. Again, to me, it’s an urban community. It’s going to be closer than normal than a typical suburban home. There’s always a little give and take in townhomes. You share a wall with your neighbors, after all. To me it’s part of the draw. Plus being close to the marina.
CB: You mentioned earlier you have a condo at Rocketts?
JH: Yes, I purchased a condo over a year ago, remodeled (still an ongoing project or two) and moved in last August. That is the architect in me; I wanted to make the space truly mine… even though it was my own design to start with.
Architect Jason Hopkins is the principal of Richmond-based firm Design Physics.
804.598.9216
dpstudios@designphysics.net
www.designphysics.net
Power Plant to get restaurant
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The Power Plant stole the show.
Sure, boats lit up like Christmas trees were the attraction (including one with a palm plant). But hardly anyone seemed to notice at last weekend’s Parade of Lights.
Instead the 400 revelers seemed more excited about the space inside the renovated Power Plant, which produced electricity for the trolley cars back in the day.
The party was for invited guests of Rocketts Landing. But soon anyone will be able to grab a meal with views of downtown. The third and fourth floor will become home to a restaurant called “The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing.”
According to a Times-Dispatch story, Kevin Healy will open up a similar concept to his Boat House at Sunday Park in Chesterfield’s Brandermill community, which serves seafood, steak and pizza.
You can see more photos of the Parade of Lights ( courtesy of Hunter Henkel) here.
Fishing in the Winter
Monday, December 15, 2008
Talk about dedicated. Richmonders who fish in the winter in the pouring rain were featured in another installment of the great Times-Dispatch series on the James River. There’s also a wonderful slideshow and a handy guide/map to some of the best fishing spots.
“The night was cold, rainy and thoroughly miserable. Normal people were home by the fire,” writes Rex Springston.
Rick Cochran Jr. was in his boat in the James River, beaming with the warmth of contentment and trying to catch one last fish.”
Holiday Lights on Display
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
The holiday lights are up at Rocketts Landing. The city skline also looks amazing now that the buildings have their winter lights, but I couldn't get a good shot of that. Stay tuned for lots more news in the next few weeks.
Fresh renderings of the Terraces
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Is there a standard length of measurement to qualify something as a stones-throw from something else? Does the arm strength of the speaker, and therefore the rock-thrower matter? And why are people throwing stones, anyway? That seems a dangerous way of measuring.
I ask because the next phase of construction at Rocketts will bring a handful of upscale townhomes to the banks of the James River. I’d very much like to say they’re a stones-throw from the water. I'm confident I can easily throw a stone from where construction will begin into the water of the James. But enough about stones.
The homes will range in size between 3,240 square feet to almost 5,000 square feet. Prices range from $1 million to $1.6 million.
A few more details about the terraces:
- will be constructed with limestone exteriors
- include rooftop decks
- include two-car garages
- each residence comes with an elevator and fireplace
Smooth new lot
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
For the last year two parking lots on the West edge of the property were used for construction vehicles.
Now that they’re smooth as – well – something very smooth.
So what will they be used for?
Well, the Power Plant is nearing completion and waiting for a restaurant tenant. The lots can also be used for that as customers in the future will visit businesses on the first floor of 210 Rock. Brand new parking lots are also good for learning how to ride a bike.
James River Journal
Monday, November 17, 2008
The Times-Dispatch has begun exploring various aspects of the James River with a series called, “James River Journal.”
Today the paper and website featured Dave Everette, a commercial photographer who has been exploring the river and taking photos for 20 years. There’s a great slideshow of some of his shots online and an accompanying story by environmental writer Rex Springston.
The paper says that this is the first installment in a new monthly series about what makes the river special.
If you have story ideas or want to share your thoughts about the James for a future blog post, please email blog@telosmedia.com.
Bike Sale
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
YeRen, an outdoor apparel and gear shop in Shockoe Bottom, has closed. The store is selling its fleet of gently-used rental bikes at steep discounts. The bikes include beach cruisers, mountain bikes and road bikes.
You can see the list here.
Next phase along the River
Sunday, November 09, 2008
There was a great story in the Times-Dispatch Sunday about a new phase of the project.
According to the Times-Dispatch story, “Riverbank Terraces is designed to reflect the elegant architecture along Monument Avenue."
“The town homes, ranging from 3,240 square feet to 4,495 square feet, will be listed for $1 million to $1.6 million. The facade will be limestone with touches of black wrought iron and very high-end finishes," the paper reports. Construction might start in early 2009.
I’m trying to track down some renderings. Stay tuned.
Meet the residents
Friday, November 07, 2008
No need to strap on the binoculars if you’re curious what sort of people are living at Rocketts, and what their pads look like.
Rocketts Landing recently launched a new feature for the website called “Meet the Real People at Rocketts Landing”
Right now the site includes five couples and two individuals. When you click on a photo it pulls up a page with a description of the person and includes links to the floor plan of their particular home. Most explain why they chose Rocketts and what they enjoy about living there.
Several of the brief narratives are abbreviated versions of stories that have appeared in local media.
Is this a homerun for Rocketts residents?
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Rocketts residents might have another pit-stop on their way home from work: watching a baseball game in Shockoe Bottom.
According to the Times-Dispatch, developers have proposed building a ballpark on 19 acres in Shockoe Bottom. And the mayor is on board, unlike the last downtown proposal in 2005. A new team to replace the Braves has not been named, and the city will likely not have baseball next year.
But according to the T-D on Monday, “A $60 million baseball stadium would be built in Shockoe Bottom as part of a $363 million development on almost 19 acres of public and privately owned land under a plan unveiled yesterday.”
The T-D reports that, “The new stadium would be built about 20 feet below street level, and it would be able to accommodate 8,500 fans in fixed seats, as well as on outfield berms, terraces, suites and other areas. The stadium could be expanded to provide an additional 2,000 seats.”
The plan also calls for retail, office and residential, as well as a slave trail museum
You can read the city’s plan here.
Race raised $21,000 for Fulton Hill community center
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Nobody got lost last weekend while participating in the Rocketts Landing Run to the River 10K.
River standards upheld
Sunday, October 19, 2008
A state panel unanimously denied a city of Richmond request yesterday to raise the level of fecal bacteria allowed in part of the James River, The Times-Dispatch reported.
You can read the story here.
This would be perfect for a movie
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Memo to local filmmakers: I found the spot where you must film your next good-guy getting-chased-by-bad-guy scene. When I went up to the rooftop decks on the new townhomes this week, it was so blatantly obvious.
This thought hit me when I tried to step over the dividers between rooftop terraces. They are just high enough to make a dramatic scene where the good guy leaps over them like OJ in an airport. 
camera pans to the opposite end of the terraces, where a train can be seen in the distance. Our hero hops on Hobo-style and rushes to save the orphans.
Turns out the villain didn’t have a sheet. That’s a wrap.
Update
Friday, October 10, 2008
The first set of town homes is nearing completion. Each of the houses has a different façade from its neighbors, and some are getting full front decks. I've not been inside yet, but hope to get some interior pics soon.
I believe construction on the Marina should begin soon. I'll have photos when it does.
And don't foget, the
Rocketts Landing Run to the River 10K and 5K is on Saturday the 18th.
Christen the Marina
Friday, September 26, 2008
Everyone knows you christen a new boat with a bottle of champagne, but how do you christen a new marina? One bottle of champagne for each slip, perhaps?
If that’s the case, prepare 87 bottles for late spring, if Rocketts Landing can build the new marina without too many hiccups.
As the Times-Dispatch reported, the project received a permit from the Virginia Marine Resources Commission for an 87-slip marina.
Marina on schedule
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Rocketts Landing will soon start construction on the 87-slip m
The projects will involve floating docks that can rise and fall with the river levels.
We will have some more updates the marina soon.
Adventure Richmond
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Three people don’t fit comfortably in a canoe. I learned that this weekend while attempting a 100-mile, 30-hour adventure race centered on a stretch of the James River 30 miles west of town.
Organizers of the Untamed Virginia adventure race, let me tag along with a four-person team. I was the fifth wheel. Or the aqua equivalent. I was on assignment trying to learn more about the growing trend of outdoor enthusiasm which is permeating Central Virginia and Richmond in particular.
Adventure racing seems to be at the extreme end. Last week I blogged about the Run to the River – which will pass through Rocketts Landing and has grown from a 5K walk into a 10K hilly run. The Xterra Games have become wildly popular, and new races seem to keep popping up.
I just learned that Rocketts Landing is in discussions to bring a triathlon to town. That would send competitors into the river for the swim section. And Rocketts already hosts a regatta every summer.
So back to my adventure: after carrying canoes for what felt like two miles but was probably much shorter, we shoved off into the mighty James. We had two canoes. So I sat in the middle of one of them on the hard, plastic floor. That’s not ideal in shallow water with lots of rocks. 
But canoe be damned, the race was a hoot. It was meant to be hard, after all. That's the appeal for the competitors, some of whom are in the military's special forces units.
After paddling, we completed an orienteering section in the James River State Park, where we navigated with a map and compass and tried to find check points listed in a race booklet. Then we mountain biked at 2:00 a.m., steering with headlamps and moonlight. (I was pedaling just fine but still felt like closing my eyes…obviously not a bright idea). The adreneline carried me for the entire race, at least the sections my team completed.
We made it 45 miles until we hit a McDonalds in a small town somewhere in farm country. It was 9:00 a.m., about 24 hours after we started. So we called for a shuttle and ordered some greasy food.
I think we earned it.
Thanks to organizer Grant Killian for the photos.
Run to the River (and then back uphill)
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Racing from Fulton Hill to the James River isn’t so hard. That’s mostly downhill. It’s huffing and puffing back up to the start/finish that’s hard.
This year the Neighborhood Resource Center of Fulton Hill is making the annual fundraiser harder on purpose, using a hilly 10K course as a way to attract more competitive runners. Last year the fundraiser was a more leisurely 5K walk.
A long-time runner and local resident helped plot the course.
“We’re going to stay in the area, run up and down the James and through Rocketts Landing,” said Mary Lou Decossaux, a co-executive director at the Center and one of the organizers of the race. “It will be very challenging and beautiful.”
There will still be a 5K for those who want to walk or jog.
The Neighborhood Resource Center is a community center in Fulton Hill (1519 Williamsburg Road) that has classes for kids and adults and will soon finish a new kitchen to prepare healthy meals. Local residents started it six years ago in an old post office.
Decossaux said she hopes to raise $30,000, which goes to help outreach efforts including: 
- A Montessori preschool
- Adult education for GED degrees
- Available space for community meetings
- Kitchen to prepare food and teach community - members about healthy diets
Decossaux hopes that more than 100 runners show up. It’s probably a great warm up for the Richmond Marathon.
The Run to the River is Saturday, October 18, and starts at 9:30 a.m.
Runners can register here
Set me up
Thursday, August 21, 2008
The most important element of the volleyball courts appears to be in place: sand.
I wonder if people will be extra jazzed about volleyball after watching the game during the Olympics. On the other hand, the Olympics might be tad intense for people who like to play volleyball at the beach.
For anyone who thinks the Olympics is just a little too serious, check out this classic clip:
Click here to go to the Richmond Volleyball Club’s homepage.
The Rocketts Flora
Thursday, August 14, 2008
It's a typical day along the banks of the James in the summer heat. W. John Hayden wipes the sweat off his brow, replacing it with a hat.
He wears many hats, as it turns out. Hayden teaches biology at the University of Richmond, and he’s a dedicated botanist. He cultivates a stunning garden on his property in Powhatan County. He plays classical guitar. He restores his 1952 pick-up truck, an International Harvester.
But today he is exploring the property of Rocketts Landing with me. More specifically, he is examining the plant life that creates a wall of life next to the James River.
All the usual suspects are present: Maple trees, Sycamore trees, Elm trees. There's a Huckberry tree, immediately noticeable from its gray bark. There's the relatively common Polymnia Uvedalia, which is also known as Bearsfoot, characterized by a bright yellow flower with dark seeds sprouting from its interior. And of course, there's everyone’s favorite rash-giver, Poison Ivy. (Leaves of three – let it be).
A butterfly catches Hayden’s eye as it lands on a Water Willow, which should not be confused with a Willow tree.
Common names, Hayden says, are often useless for actual identification, which is why he describes every plant by its scientific name first. The butterfly sports a black-blue metallic base color. It has two tails jutting out from the back of its wings.
The butterfly isn't the only foreigner. Several invasive exotics have made their way to Virginia and taken root on the banks of the James. One is called the Tree of Heaven. It’s mostly green, but some of its leaves have taken on attractive shades of red and gold as the summer months wear on. It can also be recognized by its irregular trunk pattern.
Another invasive exotic is the Princess Tree, which has gorgeous purple flowers symbolizing its royal name. The cottony fluff that surrounds its seeds have been used through the years as packing material, and Hayden hypothesizes that this is why the plant has found its way to Virginia.
The Virginia Creeper has small raspberry-like fruits that start out green and then turn bluish-black as the seasons change. There's also some small blackberry trees scattered around, weaving in and out of common grasses and weeds.
Moon Seed and Morning Glory plants grow from the bank, creating the illusion that the two plants are actually one. The Trumpet Vine, with orange, tube shaped flowers, proves the power of nature's cohesive abilities. Hummingbirds seem to be anatomically built to pollinate these plants, or perhaps it's the other way around.
Even for a veteran like Hayden, there are always new things to look for. That’s why he packs a camera and a few plastic bags so that he can grab some specimens and examine them further.
Today, he takes several pictures, and bags up three different plants, convinced that there is more to them than meets the eye.
"You just never know what you're gonna find out here."
Rocketts sprouts buildings…and veggies
Sunday, August 10, 2008
If you plant it in July, it might not grow.
At the request of a group of residents, Rocketts Landing has a garden. The tomatoes look healthy but are not yet bearing fruit. There are also peppers and herbs.
The developers brought in topsoil and put a hose nearby. “You couldn’t eat what was planted, because this used to be a brown field,” said Eve Capehart, one of the residents who requested a garden. Now everything is safe to eat because the contaminated soil has been removed.
Capehart, who is a Cedar Works resident, said that gardeners plant their own plots and are responsible for watering their crops.
Speaking of water, Capehart travels a lot and is looking for someone to make sure her greens get a daily sprinkling.
“It dries out fast, especially with new plants that were planted in the heat of summer,” Capehart said.
Swanky Power Plant
Thursday, July 24, 2008
A quick update:
The Power Plant building could be substantially completed by September (not the elevator, though). The developers are in talks with restaurants to take some of the space. It's the first building at Rocketts to be entirely commercial (that is, there are no residences).
Below is a rendering: 
Also, start warming up that spike serve. Two sand volleyball courts will soon provide a beachy diversion near the Power Plant.
Signage
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
The Cedar Works sign gets a fresh coat of paint.
Rocketts Resident represents at Muddy Buddy
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Rocketts Landing resident Brian Wetmiller, 27, and his brother Matthew won first place in their age bracket at last weekend’s Muddy Buddy Race.
The run/bike/obstacle course in Chesterfield’s Pocahontas Park – which includes a trudge through a giant mud pit – has a cult following. Participants come from as far as Washington D.C. and Raleigh to compete. Many of the racers are fast and in great shape. (I know because I was there last year).
The Times-Dispatch’s Bill Lohman described it, “The early-morning event was serious in the sense that entrants run and pedal as fast as they can under less-than-ideal surfaces and conditions. But it had a festival feel, with more than a few participants competing in costumes. There were superheroes with capes, as well as a couple of Smurfs. One participant ran and pedaled in a pale-green bathrobe and a hot-pink shower cap. He appeared to be fast.”
Brian is a Cedar Works resident.
Barge chugging to town
Thursday, July 10, 2008
A barge might soon start chugging up the James from Hampton Roads to the Richmond port, which is a few miles downriver from Rocketts.
According to a story from Inside Business, a Norfolk business man has convinced the state to put some money behind the idea as a way to reduce truck traffic on Interstate 64.
“Initially, the barge will carry international shipping containers between the state-controlled NIT and the Port of Richmond once a week.”
The barge has been dubbed the 64 Express. If fully loaded, it could take 128 big rigs off the roads.
The journey from Hampton Roads up to Richmond would take between 12 and 15 hours.
Will Richmond become more like the Northeast?
Thursday, July 03, 2008
I was up in New England this weekend – and I saw the future of Richmond, and Rocketts Landing.
Well, not the delightful 70 degree summer weather, sigh.
I flew to
A former railroad track along Lake Mascoma has been turned into a bike/walking path. The Virginia Capital Trail will likely run along a current railroad grade along the
I also spent half a day in
Of course,
And when they go bowling, they use pint-sized balls.
Rocketts Landing Regatta
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
This post is a little late, but I just got some great photos from the 
The crew race was part of the James River Adventure Games, that crazy weekend of outdoorsy sports two weeks back which included the Xterra Race. (Is it me, or does everyone in
Mark Willis, a member of the Virginia Boat Club, said there were 64 boats.
Teams came from
If you’ve never learned to row and want to try, the Virginia Boat Club is offering another one of its novice classes. The open house is July 1 at 
Extra thanks to Eric Simon for the great photos. You can see more here.
210 Rock Party
Thursday, June 12, 2008
People really like to talk about, and presumably shop for, home decorations and furnishings.
I know this because heat be damned, hundreds of Richmonders stopped by the Grand Opening at 210 Rock on Saturday afternoon.
They oohed and ahhed.
They asked things like, “Where can I get that clock,” and “What’s the square footage of this closet?”
I kept hearing, “I looove that rug.” And, “That would look great in our place, wouldn’t it?”
I didn’t know you could have such strong feelings for a rug. Or that one has to match a lamp with an accent wall. (Impressed I know what an accent wall is, ehh?)
The last time I walked through 210 Rock, I was stepping over paint buckets and wires.
This time it felt like I was in one of the New York City apartment buildings you see advertised in the New York Times or Wall Street Journal.
Judging by the names of the apartment layouts –SoHo, Gramercy, TriBeCa – that’s an intentional move by the architects. To be sure, 210 Rock has a different vibe than the other buildings at Rocketts. It bucks the traditional warehouse style in favor of contemporary lines and angles. Many units have a floor-to-ceiling window bay.
As for the particulars on 210 Rock, the units range in price from the mid $200,000s up to the $600,000 range. The penthouse has already been sold (More on the project-wide popularity of penthouses in a later post).
If you were at the Grand Opening, please share your thoughts of the model units with me by emailing captain@rockettsblog.com.
Don't throw the mortgage out with the bath water
Thursday, June 05, 2008
“Mortgage broker” has become a dirty phrase – up there with %($)%. But not as bad as $#(%^@$%.
People seem to wag the finger at companies that looked the other way or winked a little too hard at the line on a loan application that asks for household income.
I called a Rocketts resident / mortgage lender to see what’s really going on locally. Tommy Samuel, who works for Countrywide, said he’s having one of his best months ever.
But financing for condos has gotten harder, he said. “The guidelines are getting more stringent,”
“They’re cracking down on the ratio of owner occupied versus investor occupied.”
Rocketts remains an approved project, in part because of low investor to owner ratio. Samuels has approval from Countrywide to lend money through Fannie Mae for the Sky Line, Fall Line, and Cedar Works buildings. He’s working on it for 210 Rock.
Samuels also said he sees the foot traffic coming through the property on the weekends, which tells him interest is up considerably compared to other projects around town.
“I see 100 people on a Saturday. I think it’s because it’s on the river. It’s just exciting, you know.”
Eagle v. Heron....
Thursday, May 29, 2008
A family of Blue Herons have made like Tom Sawyer in downtown Richmond and built a home on an island just off
They're quasi celebrities, having been featured in a Times-Dispatch article.
It's not the sort of thing you'd expect in larger cities, such as
Last week I saw something even cooler: a bald Eagle lifting off from next to the Nickel Bridge. He (not sure of gender, but let's call him a him) flew west following the water. I watched, mesmerized. It was all very patriotic.
Side note: Ben Franklin wanted the American bird to be the turkey instead of the eagle. In a 1784 letter to his daughter he wrote:
"For my own part I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral character. He does not get his Living honestly. You may have seen him perched on some dead Tree near the River, where, too lazy to fish for himself, he watches the Labour of the Fishing Hawk; and when that diligent Bird has at length taken a Fish, and is bearing it to his Nest for the Support of his Mate and young Ones, the Bald Eagle pursues him and takes it from him … For the Truth the Turkey is in Comparison a much more respectable Bird, and withal a true original Native of America... He is besides, though a little vain & silly, a Bird of Courage, and would not hesitate to attack a Grenadier of the British Guards who should presume to invade his Farm Yard with a red Coat on."
Time for a dip
Thursday, May 22, 2008
The Pool opens on Saturday.
Each time I check the pool site, it seems like the Shoemaker’s Elves had been come during the night and added some new feature. The landscaping and sod just went in yesterday.
Like Riding a Bike
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Special thanks to the Wrinkle Neck Mules for the rights to their song "Pull the Break"
Kentucky Derby
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Poor Eight Belles. Although it’s unclear how many casual 
Judging by the various shindigs I attended on Saturday, including the Richmond Ballet’s Derby Day soiree at Rocketts Landing, the Kentucky Derby is more about partying than rooting for a speedy equine.
The Ballet fundraiser at Rocketts was probably as close as I’ll ever get to the actual Kentucky Derby. So many floppy hats and bright colored dresses. To my delight, one guy had a belt with horses on it.
The Ballet has been hosting the affair at Rocketts Landing for three years. Last year at was closer to the water in what will become the clubhouse. This year it was under a tent. There was a band and – as you might expect of a fund raiser for a ballet – some dancing.
The party usually raises around $25,000 for the Ballet, which was the first professional dance company in Virginia. Currently it has 18 full-time dancers, according to the website.
A walk in the park
Friday, May 02, 2008
And then there’s Gillies Creek Park. Less than a mile from Rocketts Landing, it’s the unsung hero of the park system. You might even say it’s the new kid on the block – and it’s never crowded, unlike, say, Belle Isle.
The 45-acre greenway has an 18-hole disk golf course, lighted horseshoe pits, ball fields and walking trails. The park even has a dirt bmx track.
On Sundays in the spring and fall, throngs of adults (many of whom wish they were still kids) don colorful T-shirts and cleats and gather at Gillies Creek to play touch football. But don’t be fooled. The participants take it very seriously. I’ve spotted players wearing eye-black and seen numerous altercations, including between women.
The River City Sports and Social Club organizes the leagues, and each season more teams join. Gillies Creek is still improving. According to the City’s website, future plans call for a volleyball court and horse stables that would be home to the police mounted patrol.
Warp Speed
Thursday, April 24, 2008
I’m constantly amazed at how fast certain construction projects seem to progress.
The pool house was just a concrete remnant when I was last on the property, which was two weeks ago, max.
Now it looks like, well, a pool house. The pool already looks inviting, too. And now there are steps up from the pool area to the main level.
Not an Island
Thursday, April 17, 2008
No man is an
Neither is Rocketts Landing. A man. Wait, or an
While Rocketts will have its fair share of retail, residents can also walk to Shockoe Bottom and pop in to a growing number of shops.
Part of the momentum stems from all the new residents at the Tobacco Row apartments who want and need local options. Part of that growth is from intrepid business owners like Erin Ooms and Mike Tyler. Both have opened shops within the last year along a stretch of
Six weeks ago, Ooms opened GlobeHopper Coffeehouse & Lounge Coffee House (
“I’ve live downtown and been scouting this area for years,” Ooms said.
Ooms said she looked at property closer to VCU, but that she really wanted the building where her shop now operates. “This is a 24-hour area, with the residents, and businesses and nightlife.”
Coffee shops are notoriously difficult businesses, and the rate of failure is high. But Ooms said she’s been watching the area and counting traffic to make sure her business plan was viable. And with all the growth on the horizon, she thinks the situation will keep improving.
Indeed, next-door to GlobeHopper, a former fire station has a zoning application sign, which means something is in the works. (Anyone who knows please send email to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com).
And a bit father west, Mike Tyler is celebrating the one-year anniversary at YeRen Outdoor Adventure. The shop sells and rents bikes and outdoor gear and apparel.
Gone Fishing
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Before it was hip
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Talk about being in the neighborhood before it was hip.
In the mid 1980s, Ken Aspinall bought several acres on
Back then, the City had property they wanted developed. As president of the company, Aspinall thought it would be a good location to serve local customers, as well as an affordable one. And a dryer one. A previous plant closer to the river had been flooded numerous times.
The company owns almost an entire block now, renting out space to several other businesses. Aspinall said he’s happy to have new neighbors and has enjoyed watching the rebirth of the area – including the construction at Rocketts Landing. Industry and residential can coexist nicely, he says.
And talk about practicing what you preach.
Two weeks ago, Aspinall closed on a home in Fall Line. Right now he and his wife are getting ready to put their West-End home on the market while they decorate the new unit.
“We’re happy to see the riverfront being developed,” Aspinall said. “These things can be great growth machines.”
For the
And then there’s the commute: About five minutes by foot.
Golden Goose
Monday, April 07, 2008
In April’s green issue, Virginia Business Magazine takes a look at the “River Revival”
“The river is definitely our golden goose, says Richard Souter, a Rocketts Landing’s developer. “And to date it has been vastly underutilized.”
Rowing on the James
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Sometimes the same activity can be both a sport and something far less enjoyable.
Running is fun, if the Monument 10K is any judge. Running away from wild animals or robbers, not so fun.
Swimming can be a hoot (especially when you try to talk under water). Other times it’s trying not to drown.
And then there’s crew. It brings to mind slaves in the hold of ship paddling in unison;. “STROKE.STROKE. STROKE.”
The same commands reverberate off the bank of the James, usually being shouted by the smallest person in the boat. To make matters even more painful, rowers get up absurdly early. The VCU Crew Team meets down at Rockets Landing before dawn. They’re off the water by the time most of us are getting ready for work. The reason: the water is less choppy in the morning.
But crew isn’t just for college students in sweaters. “You don’t have to be super competitive, like they are in college. It’s fun just to get out on the water and paddle up and down. It’s low impact and good aerobic exercise,” said Mark Willis, president of the Virginia Boat Club. (Willis and his wife, who also rows, moved to Rocketts Landing in January.)
“I took this up a couple of years ago. I was a runner for 30 years. I got into it for cross training, and I see lots of people learning to row in my same demographic (50s).”
They seem to be part of a trend. Around 20 intermediate rowers came out two weekends ago for the Virginia Boat Club’s open house.
Willis said there will likely be another open house at the end of April. And in June there’s a regatta (fancy word for a race) on the James. Boats compete from around the Mid-Atlantic. I’ve been promised there’s beer and food.
Please send comments or story ideas to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com
Why walk?
Thursday, March 27, 2008
An old joke goes something like this:
A prince gets out of a fancy car at an even fancier hotel. The bellhop promptly grabs the luggage from the trunk and carries it into the lobby. When he returns to the car the queen looks at the bellhop and asks, “Can you please bring in my son?”
A little surprised, the bellhop responds, “Of course, but why can’t he walk,” figuring the prince suffers some type of disability.
“Well, why should he?” the queen retorts.
I laugh every time I tell it. Like any good observant joke, the humor lies in exaggerating reality into an absurdity.
If you laughed at that joke, you might enjoy this story on Slate, which talks about Disney World and how most visitors aren’t used to the walkability of it all. “It turns out that the most far-fetched fantasy in Disney World isn't the magic spells, the haunted buildings, or the talking animals. It's the fact that there aren't any cars.”
The point is: Human beings are meant to move their legs. That’s why we have them.
Not to mention it’s a pleasurable way to get around. When you walk places, you’re more aware of your surroundings. When I stroll around the property at Rocketts Landing, usually with my eyes fixed on the ground in hopes of spotting some Civil War treasure (sadly, to no avail), I always cherish the time away from the cubicle, and away from my well-worn swivel chair.
This week I saw a fisherman just off-shore. Then there are the Herons nesting upriver. You can read more about that here.
But walking isn’t for everybody. That’s why there’s the Segway. According to Style Weekly, a Segway dealer plans to open in Shockoe Slip.
Please email Segway jokes or story ideas to: captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com
Pool Taking Shape
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Call it Home
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
On Saturday the Times-Dispatch published a lengthy feature about a few of the first people to move into Rocketts Landing.
Julie Young writes, “The only amenity in the place so far is the big one, the
The story included profiles of four sets of homeowners:
Stephen, Crista, Jonathan and Andrew Laprade
Cedar Works -- 1,500-square-foot first-floor
“Until the construction calms, the bus stops on busy state Route 5 to let off two passengers from Mehfoud Elementary School -- 7-year-old twins Jonathan and Andrew Laprade.”
Bob and Jill Wright
Retirees; four grown children
Fall Line -- 1,900-square-foot fourth-floor condo
“Moving out of a 3,800-square-foot
Gabe Corbett
Single real-estate agent
Fall Line -- first-floor, 1,420-square-foot condo
“Corbett, 37, bought a two-story condo in the Fall Line building only a few yards from the
Danny and Peggy Broaddus
Retirees; two grown daughters
Cedar Works -- fifth-floor, 1,800-square-foot condo
"One of the biggest draws for us is that it's a real neighborhood. At that time, it was on paper but we knew the way it was planned out, it was going to be a true neighborhood. We wanted something that was diverse, where we could walk down the sidewalk and meet neighbors and be a part of a real community."
Get to know your city council issues
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Between swirling political currents and colorful master plans, keeping track of
But after chatting with Richard Souter, vice president of the WVS Companies (the developer), it doesn’t seem so complex. Construction continues on schedule at Rocketts Landing and will likely start within the
“We’re really just looking to the City (Staff and Council) to decide what they want,” Souter said. “They need to answer some internal questions, and then we’re only too happy to help them in whatever we can.”
In case you haven’t been following along, some of the locations and issues include:
Lehigh Cement: A cement distribution facility along the river. The land could be used as a park. Currently, a train supplies materials to the silos. “If the train tracks go away, people will have safe unobstructed access to the river from the land side,” Souter said.
The Capital Trail, which I’ve blogged about before, would follow the track en route to downtown
Intermediate Terminal: City-owned land adjacent to where Rocketts is building a marina. This area could be developed into a public marina. Kiran Krishnamurthy reported in a February Times-Dispatch story that the “Wilder administration says a public marina, paired with a private one at Rocketts Lading, could usher in water-based tourism, including tall ship festivals.”
The City Council will discuss a possible public marina again on April 14.
Please send story ideas to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com.
The pool gets deeper
Monday, March 10, 2008
No running.
Step one in construction of a pool: DIG
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Construction started yesterday on the pool. The hole was 4 feet deep when I stopped by around
The digging part could be done in a week, according to a back-hoe operator. Yes, I interviewed a back-hoe operator.
Quick poll: what’s the best flotation device:
1: kick board
2: old-school orange life jacket
3. floaties
4. rescue buoy
5. other
Please send answers to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com
Meels on Wheels
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Depending on your geographic location, catering trucks go by a slew of different names. There’s the seemingly ubiquitous taco truck or the less-desirable roach coach.
Most days the local chuck wagon comes by Rocketts Landing around
But for Juan and Veronica Lopez, who serve piping hot Mexican food from the window of the mobile eatery, the day starts earlier in the morning. Typically, the couple fills the truck’s food containers at a local restaurant and preps food for quick delivery, on demand. Then they drive to construction sites in the vicinity of downtown.
Most chuck wagons service particular parts of the Metro Area, sticking to established routes to develop a consistent customer base, Juan said.
“We usually serve around 40 to 50 meals at lunch,” Juan told me when I stopped by for a soft-shell taco (heavy on the onions) earlier in the week.
For the laborers, it’s a chance to get a hot meal, cold soda and a bit of friendly chit-chat (usually in Spanish).
If you don’t have the means to track down Juan and Veronica’s chuck wagon, they also told me that they are preparing to open a restaurant near the corner of Staples Mill and
Please send the name of your favorite Mexican restaurant to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com.
First community association meetings
Thursday, February 21, 2008
This week names get matched to faces. Each building at Rocketts Landing has a condominium association, and all are meeting this week for the first time. The Master Homeowners Association, which will manage communal amenities like the pool and fitness center, will meet on Monday, February 25. (Right now Rocketts Landing is supporting the associations, but when each building is 75 percent sold, the associations become independent of the developer.)
For the residents at Rocketts Landing, Amanda Madden needs no introduction. They’ve already popped into her office to ask for an extra set of keys. Or called when the water gets cut off (par for the course as the buildings go up). Or read a mass email asking residents not to put mops and brooms in the trash chutes. Or where to pay the association fees and when they are due.
I stopped in this week to learn more about how Madden handles all that goes into building a new community.
By keeping a checklist on her at her at all times, I learned. In addition to handling 25 calls and 25 emails a day from new residents, she’s also working on plans for the pool and adding a recycling station.
“The key is to prioritize my day,” Madden said. “But, honestly, sometimes I get anxious while I am getting ready for work just thinking about all the things I’ve got to do.”
“The key is to carry a notebook and keep a list of the things I’ve missed.”
We’ve got a list, too, for cool story ideas. To add one, please email captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com
One if by sea; two if by….bike?
Thursday, February 14, 2008
When construction at Rocketts Landing wraps up in a few more years, residents and visitors will be able to get to and away from the multi-use development by a multitude of conveyances.
I’ve already blogged about the marina, which allows for easy access to the
The 50-mile path will eventually stretch from
The project is being constructed piecemeal, with sections in downtown
“This is going to be really cool,” said
In May, 1,000 bikers will pedal the route to raise money for the Foundation. The event, called the Capital to Capital Bike Ride, is sponsored by Rocketts Landing, who will also construct the section of the trail that passes through the property.
For those who prefer a longer ride, say…crossing the entire nation, the Capital Trail will also be part of the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail. Yes, it’s for real, and yes, it passes through
If similar trails are any indicator, the Virginia Capital Trail will likely be a boon to area hospitality-related businesses and an asset that promotes
The Virginia Creeper Trail, a bike trail in
Please email captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com with bike stories, especially ones of your worst fall.
New uses for bygone parcels
Friday, February 01, 2008
Developers from around the country are turning abandoned urban landscapes -- including mothballed airports, outdated power plants and dormant factories -- into thriving villages.
Steve Filmanowicz from the Congress for the New Urbanism, says that it’s a growing trend and “part of rediscovery of cities, a rediscovery of urban fabric.”
In a recent phone interview, he told me, “It’s the most authentic, character-rich fabric out there, these existing city buildings. They were created at time when warehouses were made incredibly solid. Transportation of the day really emphasized good urban buildings.”
I cruised around the internet and found other adaptive reuse projects that share the Rocketts Landing’s virtues (traditional neighborhood design, walkability, proximity to downtown …)
Check it out:
A defunct coastal
A local reporter described it, “The site for development used to be a coal-fired, then oil-fired electric generating plant that closed in the early 1990's. The large brick building that once housed massive Westinghouse turbines will remain, transformed into an office/retail space that includes the marina and boatworks. Where towering oil tanks stood (three of them to be exact) will now be the scene of homes and condominiums, an underground garage, and open land.”
American Locomotive Works:
Along the Woonasquatucket River in
just outside downtown
The website describes it, “Casual dining, retail shops, loft-style offices, a charming diner, and brand new river front residences combine to create the city's newest destination.”
Shoal Point:
A former oil plant turned mixed-use development in
“The project involves the re-development of a former Chevron bulk oil plant into an energy efficient and environmentally sustainable mixed-use development. The Canadian Government has recognized the project as a model for sustainable building design in
A former airport in
Airports tend to make neat urban planning experiments because they include so much land – all the better for adding those extra amenities like parks and golf courses.
Finally, if you like checking out cool renderings, click here to see some award-winning urban design projects from around the world.
Please send comments or other examples of adaptive reuse to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com.
Pool Party
Thursday, January 24, 2008
A pool seems like a simple idea; dig a hole and fill it with water.
But when you’re building a cohesive waterfront that includes a pool house, fitness center, bike path and snack bar, things get a little more complicated.
After dozens of iterations and more than a year of planning, architects at Rocketts Landing have settled on the design for the community pool. Final plans reveal the pool will be 500 square feet with a small waterfall and sitting area. The plan is to have it ready for
Words don’t do the design justice, but it’s a modern shape with some cool edges and angles. Swimmers will be able to see the
A snack bar will be next to the pool house. The community center, which will be located a bit farther downriver, is still being finalized. (Look for a future post on that adaptive reuse of a former industrial building.)
Douglas Aquatics will start construction in 30 to 45 days once all the permits are finalized.
Send suggestions, story ideas or flotation devices to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com
Pool Party
Thursday, January 24, 2008
A pool seems like a simple idea; dig a hole and fill it with water.
But when you’re building a cohesive waterfront that includes a pool house, fitness center, bike path and snack bar, things get a little more complicated.
After dozens of iterations and more than a year of planning, architects at Rocketts Landing have settled on the design for the community pool. Final plans reveal the pool will be 15 feet wide by 40 to 50 feet long with a small waterfall and sitting area. The plan is to have it ready for
Words don’t do the design justice, but it’s a modern shape with some cool edges and angles. Swimmers will be able to see the
A snack bar will be next to the pool house. The community center, which will be located a bit farther downriver, is still being finalized. (Look for a future post on that adaptive reuse of a former industrial building.)
Douglas Aquatics will start construction in 30 to 45 days once all the permits are finalized.
Send suggestions, story ideas or flotation devices to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com
Mixed emotions at Council hearing
Thursday, January 17, 2008
The downtown master plan is back in the news along with the woman who had it commissioned.
Other entities are going on the record in favor of the plan. Krishnamurthy writes: “Groups such as Historic
Take a hike
Thursday, January 10, 2008
The Congress for the New Urbanism, a group that advocates sustainable, neighborhood-based development, reports on its blog that homes near cities and transit lines do not depreciate like those in far-flung suburbs.
“Transit adds value to communities no matter the economic climate. A few sprawling suburban and exurban communities will experience short-term growth due to a booming population, but it is the neighborhoods and communities with strong connectivity that will thrive in the long-term. Transit has the ability to increase (or at least sustain) value because it provides more people with access to commerce in a given area; it also improves one's quality of life in congested metropolitan areas like
Shorter commutes mean more free time. Walking to work means better mental and physical health.
Less dependence on foreign oil means … well … whatever it means it’s gotta be a good thing.
New building completed
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
So that’s why they called this one Sky Line.
The 60-unit, seven-story building opened just in time for residents to huddle around the Christmas tree. Fifty percent of the units have sold, including all the penthouses.
Please send comments, picture of your penthouse or story suggestions to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com.
Let there be lights
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
There were several condos lit up with trees and holiday cheer, but it seemed kinda stalker-ish to snap photos of them from down below. You'll have to make do with this one of the bridge.
Happy New Year! Please send comments, story ideas or wrapped presents to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com
How big is that?
Thursday, December 20, 2007
When McDonald’s says billions served, we get the point – they’ve fried a lot of hamburgers. But how many is a billion? It doesn’t really even sound that much more than a million.
Rocketts Landing is a big project. The cost has been estimated at $500 million (or half-a-billion, if you prefer). When it’s completed, it will house more people than some incorporated towns in
Here’s a closer look at some of the numbers:
Current construction crew: 300 contractors. That equals five-and a-half football teams or seven-and-a-half baseball teams.
Peak manpower during the last year was closer to 500, or about half the number of workers at CarMax corporate headquarters. (Check Richmond's largest employers here).
Amount of concrete poured: 25,000 cubic yards, or enough to fill eight Olympic swimming pools.
Stone used: 25,000 tons. That’s 50,000,000 pounds or roughly 5,000 adult elephants. Put another way, imagine more than 6,000 full-size pickups.
Pipe and conduit: 35,000 feet, or 6.6 miles – a hair more than a 10k.
Concrete pavers: 40,000 square feet installed so far, enough to cover almost 9 NCAA/NBA size basketball courts.
Finished space: 545,000 square feet certified for occupancy, which is a little less than ten football fields (end zones included).
Yeah, it’s a big project. Look for another statistical update in the next month or two.
Please send questions, comments or better comparisons to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com.
Parade of Lights
Thursday, December 13, 2007
You know you’ve thrown a good party when navigating from the beer and wine table to the appetizers requires a sideways turn and the “excuse-me; pardon-me” shuffle.
Of course, when there’s booze, steak and a live band, people tend to come out of the woodwork. (I suppose that’s why you send out invitations and ask people to RSVP.)
As the eight-piece band belted Otis Reading and Frank Sinatra, party-goers shuffled in and out of the tent to gaze at the procession of motor boats cruising in a circle.
The boats then lined up and made their way down river to the
Please email questions and comments to captainsblog@rockettsvillage.com.
Master Plan Turns Private Property Green
Monday, December 03, 2007
Michael Martz reports in today’s Times-Dispatch that not all land owners along the James are about to turn their property into grassy parks.
USP Rocketts LLC, a developer based in Northern Virginia, plans on building Echo Harbour, a $160 million development that could includes 210 condos, a restaurant, health club and other jazz, not a park, as planners intimated on their green sketch.
Master Plan Debut
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
The plan calls for an eventual streetcar or trolley system. It also recommends improving the
Power Plant Fever
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
As far as trends go, power plants are the new tobacco warehouses.
At both Rocketts Landing and the Lucky Strike complex in Tobacco Row, power plants are getting face-lifts (and, complete with internal renovations, the architectural equivalent to liposuction, as well).
Happy Thanksgiving.
Building a Marina
Thursday, November 15, 2007
A few miles east of downtown, a collection of rotting wooden pylons peak above the clear
And such idle thoughts wouldn’t be too far fetched. The north bank river used to house the
The City of
So how do you build a marina?
With heavy equipment and people who hopefully know how to swim.
According to Jason Vickers-Smith, of The WVS Companies (the company overseeing the development of Rocketts Landing), the process begins when the river bottom is cleared of debris, including boulders and refuse from previous industrial use.
“This one is a lot easier than some because the river is deep near the banks,” Vickers-Smith said.
Vickers-Smith, who built a 158-slip marina in 2001 on the
The final step involves installing the floating docks and providing electricity, water, and telephone and cable access.
Construction could start as early as July 2008 and would take about a year to complete.
History of the waterfront:
Rocketts Landing developed early in
In Notes on Virginia, Matt Gottlieb writes, “The community developed as a transition point between the plantation society around it and the area’s emergence as a multicultural mercantile center, dependant on the antebellum traffic of seagoing ships and the
A brief history lesson:
- Marquis de Lafayette visited the
- During the Civil War, the area was turned into a Confederate Navy shipyard.
- Abraham Lincoln arrived there to tour the burned Confederate Capital.
- The residential neighborhoods around the port developed as
places of commerce with diverse populations that worked around
ships from all over the world.
The port also served as a transition point from the
Who will use the new marina?
Upon completion in 2009, the marina will house 125 boats. The slips at Rocketts Landing will be made available to residents first, though, if not all of them are rented, the open spots will be made available for rent by the public. The city-owned slips, meanwhile, will immediately be open to the public, allowing boaters to tie up their rigs and enjoy area shops.
Vickers-Smith said he expects all of the slips to be used by Rocketts Landing residents after about five years.
And just as the port served as a transition from boat to or boat to canal-going keelboats, the new marina will allow mariners to dock, walk up a few steps, and start jogging or biking into Richmond along the Capital Trail.
Christening the Blog
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
What a terrible time to come down with writer’s block. Maybe it’s the pressure of Rocketts Landing’s first blog post. So many words to choose from. So many items to link to and discuss. So many adoring fans demanding insightful news and witty features.
If you have story ideas or want to share your thoughts, please email me here.
Let there be lights
Monday, December 26, 2005
Signage
Saturday, December 30, 1899
The Cedar Works sign gets a fresh coat of paint.
are for illustrative purposes only and are subject to change. All measurements are approximate.