UMFS plans mixed-use buildings on undeveloped land fronting W. Broad, Hamilton

One of the last undeveloped parcels of land along W. Broad Street within the city limits is slated to be developed into a new mixed-use development with commercial and residential components, it was announced today.

UMFS, a Richmond-based nonprofit known for their work with high-risk children and families, announced today a partnership with Spy Rock Real Estate Group that will lead to the development of the front of its Richmond campus. Approximately 4.5 acres of land will be developed through a long-term, 99-year land lease at the corner of W. Broad and N. Hamilton streets.

The Broad Street development is part of the initial stage of a long-term plan to transform and update the 118-year-old campus, allowing it to evolve as the needs of the community do. This development began in 1994 with the construction of Guardian Place, an affordable senior living community located on the campus.

“This partnership and the development of the front of our campus will start the movement to expand our programs and provide improved accessibility and visibility for our services,” said Greg Peters, president and CEO of UMFS. “Community involvement and increased awareness of our impact will be heightened by bringing more Richmond residents on our site.”

UMFS’ plan includes a new 25,000 – 30,000-square-foot facility which will provide upgraded and expanded space for the agency’s Child & Family Healing Center. It also includes a major addition of the same size range to the agency’s Charterhouse School, which serves children struggling with emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges or autism and other neurological differences.

We are not only developing a key parcel of land but also ensuring that we can be unwavering champions for high-risk children and families for many years to come,” Peters said. “Since this is one of the last undeveloped parcels of land along Broad Street, we have big plans to provide many amenities for the community and the people we serve.”

Spy Rock expects to finalize design soon. Initial plans call for multiple mixed-use residential buildings that could include restaurants, retail, office space, and associated parking.