The James River Park System saw more than 1.3 million visitors in 2015, making it the most-visited attraction in the region. Many believe the park system is underfunded and understaffed.

What is your plan for supporting the James River Park System?

Baliles: My plan is already in action to provide more funding and support for JRPS. Budget amendments submitted by me last year added $100,000 for two full time staff members and $400,000 for capital improvements. It was the largest single infusion in the system since the 1980’s. That commitment will continue as Mayor.

Berry: The James River is an incredible natural resource, a wilderness in the heart of an urban area. In addition to being an ecological treasure, a water source and an economic driver, the river is an amazing recreational resource that enables citizens to experience the natural world here at home. It must be protected at all costs, nurtured and made more accessible to the public. The Park system is straining under the pressures of over a million visitors. The Park has long been understaffed and underfunded, but has been sustained and improved by a small but incredibly dedicated staff along with committed organizations and dedicated volunteers. The Park System should be viewed as one of the City’s most important assets, and should be treated as a higher priority than most of the latest and greatest pet projects. Maintenance of the park should be viewed as a fundamental and essential function of City Government. I will be a champion for sustained investments in manpower and phased capital improvements. I will build a strong City organization that gets things done. City government will become a capable community partner that is able to leverage resources and show results.

Junes: Two aspects to support James River Park System. One element is protecting the natural wildlife – birds, fish, mammals. Second element is to keep water quality at a acceptable minimal pollution level. The JRPS central location gives / makes it a prime location with which to attract and entertain local as well as metro area residents. With Stone Bewery project already in initial stages of development the City’s eastern boundary is set, and it should draw more visitors to JRPS. Secondary – subordinate – plan would be to expand the bike / walk trail east to west.

Morrissey: The James River Park System is one of Richmond’s treasures. The most effective way I can support it is for me to have a clear understanding of those things that only city government can provide: infrastructure, public access, code enforcement pertaining to water quality, and legislative advocacy.

Mosby: I believe that this 2.25 miles stretch is an absolute jewel for the city and holds the key to many recreational and economic development opportunities. I look at cities such as Baltimore and Norfolk and am taken aback by the power of the water. I’m not just talking about the class 4 rapids and the James but the latent potential of everything around it. Everyone in the country knows it. It is time for us to actualize it. The challenge is always “how do you pay for it” and yet we will find a way to responsibly and incrementally execute aspects of the 2012 plan. Funding for projects is important and provides tangible evidence of progress, yet education and access must be incorporated into everything we do because building a love and passion for the river is vital to creating long-term, sustainable support for its successful future.

Stoney: I believe the James River is a jewel “Richmond’s Wet Central Park.” As Mayor, I will make sure more people and communities will have access to it. Working to fund priorities, find corporate and nonprofit sponsorships for programs, and connecting students to the James River will all be part of my focus in supporting the James River Park System. I will be a champion in City Hall for things like the JRPS. It’s time to start celebrating what makes Richmond great and the JRPS is a key part of what makes us an attractive place to live, work, and visit. I will be advocate for connecting the JRPS to all kids in the city. Richmond is a destination for outdoor recreation, but we need to ensure that all of our residents can take advantage of it.

Tyler: The James River Park System is the crown jewel of our city. As a member of Council I voted for the ordinance to protect the James River Park System by designating it a conservation easement. I look forward to supporting park superintendent Nathan Burrell.

Williams: I have had the pleasure to work with Nathen Burrell as a fellow founding board member of GroundworkRVA . Together we have focused on building the organization as an environmental advocacy organization. We encourage students to be environmental stewards .

As Mayor I am fully committed to recognizing the River as our Central park and maintaining its environmental quality for future generations.

I was amazed at how few City of Richmond employees maintain the River. I thank the many volunteers, however Nathan and his volunteers are over worked. To help, I will work to find more National, State and private sector funding to service and promote The James River Park System and related watersheds. New development along the River’s edge will be monitored closely by this mayor. I would also like to see stronger relationships with Richmond Public Schools and local Colleges promoting and education future environmental stewards.

I have been on the steering committee for the Downtown Master Plan appointed by Melvin Law of the Planning commission I have reviewed the proposed amendment to it: The James River Park Master Plan.

I will work closely with the Council to review proposed resolutions and ordinances that have been vetted by appropriate stake holders and citizen advisory boards established by the Mayor’s Office. Please review my web site to review my 10 point Revitalization Platform Plans to get a full perspective on Richmond’s future and to determine how the James River Park System will compliment Richmond’s central core.