Photo by Matthew Brazier

Outdoor Access for All at Amelia Street School

Everyone deserves the opportunity to spend time in nature. However, traditional outdoor spaces were not designed with all communities in mind. The Alliance has been working alongside the partners listed below to enhance the use of the open space at the Amelia Street School.

See how green infrastructure and outdoor education collide to positively impact the James River and students with disabilities.

This video was filmed in February 2024.

Amelia Street School serves students ages 5 to 21 years with intellectual disabilities, behavioral issues, or complex health needs. Nestled on nearly 10 acres and bordered by the Randolph and Maymont neighborhoods, the school is in the Shockoe Creek/Cannon’s Branch watershed. Stormwater from the school grounds drains to the James River, less than a mile away.

Partners of the Community Green Access project in Richmond stand smiling towards the camera in Amelia Street School.

Amelia Street School partners during the Open House in October 2024.

Our Vision for Green Space at Amelia Street

  • Improves access for students and staff of all mobility levels.
  • Allows teachers to use planted spaces to encourage outdoor learning and exploration. 
  • Considers connectivity using an ADA-compliant pathway that incorporates both green infrastructure practices and inclusive design principles
  • Creates a sustainable schoolyard that conserves and protects the nearby James River.

Project Timeline

  • Phase 1: Create Concept Plan – Completed in May 2024
  • Phase 2: Create Engineered Designs – Expected Completion by Summer 2025
  • Phase 3: Construction of Nature Trail, Learning Nodes, and Green Infrastructure – January 2026 through August 2026
  • Phase 4: Volunteer Events and Ongoing Partner Maintenance – Fall 2026 and Beyond

Future Project Impact:

4

dedicated outdoor education learning nodes created

1/4 mile

ADA accessible nature trail built

14,000

square feet of new conservation landscaping created

1

shade structure over an outdoor classroom installed

50

native trees planted

60,000+

estimated gallons of stormwater to be captured

Our Partners

What is Universal Design?

As described by RPS, Universal Design Learning (UDL) is an instructional framework that provides multiple means of representation, action and expression, and engagement. This approach ensures that all students can access and learn from the curriculum. Sign up to stay updated on all RPS happenings.

Use the slider below to view an aerial image of the school grounds before installation and a digital rendering of the site after installation.

Amelia street concept design-before Amelia street concept design-after

(left) Aerial image of Amelia Street School captured in February 2024 (photo by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay) , (right) Digital rendering of Amelia Street School grounds with additional green spaces and educational areas (created by Marvel Designs).

Get Involved

Find volunteer opportunities and follow along with progress at Amelia Street School by following @AmeliaStreetUrbanForest on Instagram!

Interested in supporting this project financially? Please contact Neal Friedman at nfriedman@allianceforthebay.org to share funding ideas and collaborate with partners on this project.

Follow Along

Funding for this project is provided by the Chesapeake Bay Trust and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation