|
VCU has an outstanding relationship with local governments. VCU representatives work with the City of Richmond on a continuous basis. Interaction has included zoning and permit issues associated with the Virginia Biotechnology Research Park, the School of Engineering and McDonalds; they also have included issues involving Monroe Park, installation of traffic lights at Linden Street, closing Linden Street, inclusion of the Research Park in an enterprise zone and easements for fiber optic lines. The Office will continue to work closely with the City of Richmond on these issues as well as a variety of health care/VCU Health System Authority issues.
The staff also has developed working relationships with the Board of Supervisors in a number of jurisdictions, including Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico and Powhatan. The relationships tend to center around partnering on such projects as the Virginia Biotechnology Research Park and the School of Engineering. To date, local governments have pledged $1.8 million to the School of Engineering and $575,000 to the Virginia Biotechnology Research Park.
VCU recently initiated discussions with appointed and elected officials from jurisdictions in Northern Virginia. These relationships are important as we attempt to expand our student base. In addition, as VCU partners with universities and other organizations in Northern Virginia on academic and medical programs, it is essential that the local government leaders are involved.
In addition to formal arrangements with local jurisdictions on specific initiatives, VCU has facilitated a number of social events and briefing sessions to foster the interest of the Capital Region Caucus (CRC). The CRC is a loose-knit organization of local- and state-elected officials who come together to discuss and promote regional issues.
| 
