Rich City Rides announces expansion and creation of new nonprofit
Rich City Rides says they have reached a major milestone by acquiring three properties to launch the Rich City Project, a series of eco-friendly community hubs focused on sustainability, diversity, and eco-conscious living.
The bicycle advocacy organization founded in 2012 also announced its transformation into a 501c3 nonprofit known as Rich City, which will allow a new range of community offerings, according to social media announcements.
“These hubs will be eco-friendly spaces built to the highest sustainability standards, designed to cater to diverse community needs and promote eco-conscious living. Among these spaces will be a Tech Lab, Wellness Hub, and Black Wellness Center,” the statement said.
Najari Smith, founder of Rich City Rides, will head the new nonprofit, previously operated as a fiscally sponsored project of Urban Tilth, run by District 3 Richmond City Council Member Doria Robinson.
The Patterson family transferred the properties to Urban Tilth in July for $4,350,000. In October, Urban Tilth transferred the property to Rich City for $2,075,959. In June, Urban Tilth purchased the Nabeta Nursery for $4.5 million.
Jessica Garrison
Last year, Rich City Rides began the Save Rich City campaign to raise $6 million to purchase the Bike and Skate Shop and three other associated structures that were being put up for sale.
“We have this generational opportunity to make strategic investments in our community and our organization. Let’s stand tall against the wind and the vagaries of the speculative real estate market. A market that puts profits before the physical and spiritual health of our communities,” Rich City Rides wrote.
By working together, Rich City says they can redefine what it means to be a Rich City by providing marginalized people with the resources they need to thrive and give hope to those who need it most.
Rich City invites the community to participate in an upcoming engagement process to help shape the project’s future.
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