Here’s a recap of the top stories for the week of March 6, 2026
A Whole Foods–anchored retail hub nears the finish line
Reported by BizSense’s Jack Jacobs
Construction is wrapping up on Midlothian Depot, a new retail development anchored by Whole Foods Market in Chesterfield County. The roughly 87,000-square-foot shopping center is nearing completion and is expected to bring a mix of national retailers and restaurants to the area.
The development will feature a lineup of recognizable brands including J.Crew, Warby Parker and Lovesac, along with services like a veterinary clinic and med spa. Restaurants and fast-casual dining spots are also planned, turning the center into a lifestyle destination rather than just a grocery stop.
The project will also feature 60 townhomes that will start construction in the next few weeks. Retail tenants may start to fill the mixed-use development as early as this spring.
Richmond’s proposed budget targets housing and court upgrades
Reported by BizSense’s Jonathan Spiers
City leadership is looking to make significant investments in housing and infrastructure through the upcoming municipal spending plan.
Under the proposal from Mayor Danny Avula aims contributed more than $40 million to proposed affordable housing and anti-displacement strategies in FY27, which begins July 1.
Avula’s key investments include: $11.7 million for the recently approved Affordable Housing Trust Fund, $1.8 million in Affordable Housing Performance Grants, $1.6 million to advance the next phase of Creighton Court and new funding to support the “people plan” for Gilpin Court.
The draft budget will also continue to fund the anti‑displacement programs like the Family Crisis Funds and the cities eviction diversion programs to help tenants stay in their homes.
Other budget features include up to $7.4 million in tax relief for older adults and residents with disabilities and $15.6 million for renovation and safety improvements to the John Marshall Courthouse.
Avula will present his full spending plan to Richmond City Council on March 11.
Flying Squirrels move into their nearly finished new stadium
Reported by BizSense’s Jonathan Spiers
The Richmond Flying Squirrels are officially settling into their future home.
Team office staff have moved into CarMax Park, which is reportedly about 99% complete, as the organization prepares for its inaugural season at the ballpark
The new stadium will replace the longtime venue known as The Diamond, marking a major milestone for both the franchise and the city’s broader Diamond District redevelopment effort.
When it opens, the stadium is expected to seat roughly 10,000 fans for baseball games and host concerts and other large events, positioning it as a year-round entertainment venue for the region.
The ball club’s first home game is scheduled for April 7.
You can have these and other local business stories sent right to your inbox. Sign up for the Richmond BizSense newsletter!
