Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024

Chesterfield Holding Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

for New Midlothian Library Wednesday

Chesterfield will hold a ceremonial ribbon-cutting to officially open the new Midlothian Library (100 Millworks Crossing) at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 31.

The event is open to the public and attendees should enter off Woolridge Road. Light refreshments will be available.

The new 25,000 square-foot library is nearly two-thirds larger than the previous building that existed on the same site before its closing in 2021. It will offer all of the services that were available at the former Midlothian Library, as well as the following amenities:

• Improved seating with comfortable chairs for lounging, reading and working
• A large community meeting room
• Interactive indoor learning features for kids
• A digital media center
• An outdoor reading garden
• An outdoor learning classroom with musical sculptures

The new facility also incorporates state-of-the-art technology to better facilitate meetings and collaboration.

Commemorate Chesterfield's 275th

Anniversary Starting Today

Chesterfield will reach a significant milestone later this year, as it celebrates its 275th anniversary over Memorial Day weekend. 

Officially chartered on May 25, 1749, the county will celebrate its rich history and its residents. As part of this yearlong recognition, there will be dozens of events throughout the county to give residents an opportunity to join in on the celebration and learn more about this community over the years, including signature events over the Memorial Day weekend.

The 275th anniversary celebration officially begins today with a 6 p.m. presentation at Central Library, 7051 Lucy Corr Boulevard.

For more information about these planned events and potential additions, head over to the official 275th Anniversary Celebration webpage for the latest information.

Black History Month Celebration

Kicks Off Saturday at VSU

The longstanding tradition of paying tribute to the significant role Black Americans have played in Chesterfield County’s history continues into its 35th year. 

Chesterfield and Virginia State University will celebrate Black History Month throughout the month of February with a variety of programs designed to explore the diverse heritage of Black Americans, their many accomplishments and their ongoing contributions to our community and nation. The theme of this year’s celebration is African Americans and the Arts. 

The month-long celebration is packed full of events, including the official kickoff this Saturday, Feb. 3, with a day party from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. with music from the band Curv Appeal and DJ Chuck Stone. Break it Down RVA Line Dancing will once again get you moving at VSU’s Gateway Dining Center.

For a list of all the Black History Month events sponsored by VSU, Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation and Chesterfield County Public Library, visit our Black History Month Celebration webpage. 

Know a Dedicated Volunteer? Nominate Them

for Chesterfield Community Champions Awards

Nominations are now being accepted for the Chesterfield Community Champions awards, which honor residents who volunteer their time and resources to effect positive change in their communities. 

First awarded in 2020, the Chesterfield Community Champion Awards are given to winners from seven categories of volunteers: 



• Youth (ages 12 and under)
• Teen (ages 13 and older)
• Youth Group (two or more volunteers under age 18)
• Adult (ages 18 to 59)
• Senior (ages 60 and over)
• Group (two or more volunteers with no age restriction)
• Organization (a business, church, etc.) 

To nominate a person or group, please visit the Chesterfield Community Champions webpage to complete a nomination form. Nominations are open now through 5 p.m., Monday, March 4.

The Chesterfield Community Champions winners will be recognized at the April 24 Board of Supervisors meeting beginning at 6 p.m. and will be invited to a Volunteer Recognition Event on April 25.

Registration Now Open for Spring 2024 Government Citizens Academy

Have you ever wanted to learn more about your local government? Would you enjoy meeting directly with staff in various departments, as well as county administration and members of the Board of Supervisors, asking questions and providing feedback?

If so, you should consider signing up for Chesterfield’s Government Citizens Academy (GCA).

Registration is open through Feb. 23 for the spring 2024 academy, which will include 10 sessions offered at various locations across the county on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m.

The program kicks off March 7 and runs through May 9.

GCA slots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Class size is limited, so those unable to attend all nine sessions may be placed on a waiting list.

Watch This Week In Chesterfield

Who Says Winter Can't Be Fun? Come Out to the Snowball Festival at River City Sportsplex

Cure your winter blues with a Snowball Festival that’s perfect for family and friends!

Join Chesterfield Parks and Recreation at River City Sportsplex next Saturday, Feb. 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a free community event featuring a giant snowman bounce house, a synthetic skating rink, a snow maze and more.

Food and hot drinks also will be available to purchase on site.

To learn more, visit Chesterfield.gov/parks and use course #44107. You can also call (804) 748-1623 or email ParksRec@chesterfield.gov.

Board of Supervisors Roundup

At its Jan. 24 meeting, the Chesterfield Board of Supervisors authorized county staff to proceed with a series of transportation projects, including Phase I of the Powhite Parkway Extension from its current terminus near Charter Colony Parkway to Woolridge Road.

The board also approved a new license agreement with EventMakers USA for the 2024 Chesterfield After Hours Concert Series at River City Sportsplex.

See a roundup of actions taken by the board in an article posted to the Chesterfield On Point blog.

In a new article posted to the Chesterfield On Point blog, you can learn more about how StratIS is helping county and school leaders make more informed, data-driven decisions about where and when to build new schools.

In 2018, Chesterfield began developing an enterprise data program now known as StratIS (short for Strategic Information Sharing), which uses a machine learning model to assist with planning for future public facilities: schools, fire stations, parks and libraries.

It has become a vital tool in the development of Chesterfield’s overall capital strategy for schools, including the slate of projects approved by voters in the 2022 bond referendum and the proposed fiscal year 2025-29 capital improvement program (CIP) that was presented to the School Board last week by Superintendent Dr. Merv Daugherty.

Chesterfield Behind the Mic is an audio and video podcast focusing on the people, stories and happenings of #Cfield. You can watch and listen to all of the episodes at

http://www.Chesterfield.gov/Podcast.

On the latest episode of Chesterfield Behind the Mic, which drops tomorrow, we talk to Ernestine Wilson of the Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia's African American History Committee about Black History Month 2024, her experience growing up in Chesterfield, how the county has changed over the years, the spirit of community that she’s always appreciated and the events she’s looking forward to this year.

Provide Feedback by Friday for PlanRVA's

Priority Climate Action Plan

PlanRVA is leading efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions in the Greater Richmond Region under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program. Community input is an important aspect of this plan's development.

Please provide your feedback for the Priority Climate Action Plan by responding to the survey by this Friday, Feb. 2.

Register for Celebration Lunch to Kick Off

Therapeutic Recreation Month

Did you know February is Therapeutic Recreation Month?

Chesterfield Parks and Recreation wants to start it off with a bang with a lunch to celebrate the month and everything that therapeutic recreation encompasses.

The event, which is open to everyone age 18 and up, will take place from Friday, Feb. 9, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Beulah Recreation Center. Cost is $3.

Celebrate, enjoy refreshments, activities, and music with us. Pre-registration is required one week in advance. Caregivers are encouraged to register if planning on taking part in the lunch.

Free Tax Preparation Services Offered

at North Courthouse Road Library

The AARP Foundation TaxAide program is offering free tax preparation services to the community at North Courthouse Road Library. Anyone can use this service for free, regardless of age or whether you are an AARP member.

From Feb. 5 to April 15, appointments are available on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last appointment starts at 3:30 p.m.

To sign up for a time slot, you can visit North Courthouse Road Library and check the appointment book located in the lobby. There, you'll also find instructional materials to help you prepare for your appointment. Please note that appointments can't be made online or over the phone.

For more information, call (804) 608-9617 to hear a recorded message.

Recycle Live Christmas Trees for Free

Through Sunday at Convenience Centers

Chesterfield residents can recycle live Christmas trees free of charge at both county convenience centers through Sunday, Feb. 4.

Trees must be free of all ornaments or decorations to be recycled.

The Northern Area Convenience Center is located at 3200 Warbro Road, while the address of the Southern Area Convenience Center is 6700 Landfill Drive. Both facilities are now open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Early Voting Continues for Virginia's

2024 Presidential Primaries

Early voting is under way through March 2 for Chesterfield voters participating in Virginia’s 2024 presidential primaries. Both the Republican and Democratic parties are holding a primary. Voters must choose the ballot of one party – Republican or Democratic. Voters cannot participate in both primaries.

Through Feb. 23, early voting will be conducted only at the Registrar’s Office, 9848 Lori Road.

Voting hours at the Registrar's Office:

Monday – Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 24 and Saturday, March 2: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Satellite early voting locations will open on Feb. 24.



Voting hours at satellite locations:

Monday – Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 24 and Saturday, March 2: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

To find more information about the March 2024 primary elections in Chesterfield, including sample ballots and candidate information, visit www.promotethevotecfield.org

Give Your Input on NEPA Study

for Powhite Parkway Extension

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) wants to hear from you on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) study for extending Powhite Parkway from Woolridge Road to Hull Street Road.

The study, which is being conducted in coordination with the Federal Highway Association (FHWA), will evaluate multiple alternatives to address transportation needs in the area and identify a logical, feasible location for the project improvements.

Visit the website, view our informational videos – then let them know what you think. Your input will help to inform the goals of the study and identify issues to be considered.

Say hi to Wendy!

Wendy is looking for her very own Neverland to call home! She is an absolutely gorgeous Cane Corso who weighs 100 lbs. She came in with her sister Chloe. They are independent ladies and will do fine being adopted separately.

Wendy is around 2 years old and is very curious about the world. She's a goofy girl who bounds around excitedly. She may do better in a home without small children because she has no clue how big she is and may knock them down accidentally. Wendy already knows sit and is interested in learning more tricks. She is ready to fly right on out of the shelter!

If you are interested in meeting this pet, please contact Chesterfield County Animal Services at 804-748-1683, option "2," to schedule an appointment. Office staff are available by phone 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Our shelter is located at 9300 Public Works Road.

Social Services Can Connect You

With Quality Childcare Providers

Let Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Social Services help you and your family connect with the right tools to find quality childcare!

Visit www.childcare.virginia.gov to learn more about:

* Eligibility for financial assistance

* How to apply for childcare subsidy, if eligible

* Information on childcare providers in your area and much more!

In Case of Emergency, Get Accurate and

Up-to-Date Information from Chesterfield Alert

Considering the expectation for snow coming this winter, now is the time for residents to familiarize themselves with all of the different ways that Chesterfield County puts out emergency information.

One of those is Chesterfield Alert, an opt-in system that sends messages directly to you in the event of an emergency. This system can send out alerts via text, email, and phone call depending on how the subscriber chooses to receive the messages. Sign up today!

Click here to learn more about how you can get accurate, up-to-date information from Chesterfield in the event of an emergency.

Searching for some independence? Find yourself having to call on family or friends to get you where you need to be?

Access on Demand is a same day, door-to-door, point-to-point service for citizens registered for mobility services. Destinations must be located within Chesterfield County, unless for work or medical appointments.

Each one-way trip is $6 and will be charged to your debit or credit card at the time of pick-up. Ride reservations must be made at least two hours in advance by calling an authorized provider for same-day service.

Register online, see if you qualify, and learn more about this service.

Did you know your group or organization can request a speaker from the #Cfield Speakers Bureau? The Speakers Bureau features a variety of topics on current and timely subjects from county leaders who are eager to talk to your group or organization.

Our subject-matter experts want to be your best resource for getting answers to important questions about Chesterfield. Topics include:

✅ District update – Request your board member to speak

✅ Preparing for an emergency - Emergency Management

✅ Senior resources in Chesterfield - Office of Aging and Disability Services

✅ Chesterfield Cooperative Extension - Master Gardeners

✅ So much more.

Families invited to free 'Frida Kahlo' opera

Chesterfield County Public Schools families with students in grades K-6 are invited to attend a free performance of “Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World.”

The Virginia Opera will present two performances that tell the real-life story of a young girl living in Mexico City and her friendship with famed artist Frida Kahlo, who paints her portrait. 

Families can use this form to reserve free seats for the Feb. 5 show at Meadowbrook High or the Feb. 7 show at Elizabeth Davis Middle. Both start at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, call (804) 639-8632.

Chesterfield Virtual School is open to grades K-8 

Registration for the Chesterfield Virtual School opens next Monday, Feb. 5 for Chesterfield County students in grades K-8. As Virginia’s first virtual school, the Chesterfield Virtual School provides the opportunity to learn with teachers from across the country and with students from all over the county. This creates a powerful and unique tapestry of diversity.

The Chesterfield Virtual School works for students who are self-sufficient and self-driven. School days begin at 7:45 a.m. with morning meetings. Before students are dismissed for the day at 2:15 p.m., teachers cover all core academic subjects. After-school clubs offer additional connections for students. The Chesterfield Virtual School also offers gifted instruction, honors classes, special education and ESL. 

The website offers details about the Chesterfield Virtual School and will include an enrollment form starting Feb. 5. Enrollment for new students ends April 28.

CCPSOnline registration opens Feb. 5

Students in grades 9-12 can register for CCPSOnline classes starting Feb. 5. With learning available 24/7 in a no-bells, no-limits virtual environment, the flexibility of CCPSOnline classes can help high school students create the schedule they want. Act now to take advantage of this Chesterfield County Public Schools opportunity.

CCPSOnline registration for summer 2024 and for the 2024-25 school year begins next Monday, Feb. 5 at 9 a.m. and ends April 28 at 5 p.m.

Students and parents are invited to a virtual info session about CCPSOnline on March 4 at 6:30 p.m. Click this link to join the discussion.

Also, students can talk to their school counselor about how CCPSOnline may fit into their schedule. 

The website offers details about CCPSOnline and will include an enrollment form starting Feb. 5.