Cherry Pick’d Boxing purchased the property from Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority after previous revitalization efforts stalled.
By James Whitfield | The Commonwealth Wire
A former bank building in Richmond’s Brookland Park neighborhood is being converted into a youth boxing facility, marking the latest attempt to revitalize the long-vacant property.
Cherry Pick’d Boxing purchased the building from the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority earlier this year and has begun renovation work to transform it into a community boxing hub for young people.
The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority took control of the property three years ago after a previous revitalization project failed to move forward. The authority had hoped to see the historic building restored as part of broader neighborhood improvement efforts in the Brookland Park area.
“This represents a significant investment in our community,” said a spokesperson for the boxing organization. “We’re committed to providing a safe, positive environment for youth in this neighborhood.”
The Brookland Park neighborhood, located in Richmond’s North Side, has seen various development initiatives over the past decade as the city works to address vacant and underutilized properties. The former bank building has sat largely empty for several years, becoming a symbol of stalled redevelopment efforts in the area.
Cherry Pick’d Boxing plans to offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and competitive boxing instruction for youth from across Richmond. The organization has not yet announced a timeline for completion or opening of the facility.
The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority, which manages affordable housing and development projects throughout the city, expressed support for the new use of the property. The authority has been working to find viable solutions for various vacant buildings in its portfolio.
Renovation work is currently underway, though specific details about the scope of improvements needed have not been disclosed. The building will need to meet city safety and zoning requirements for its new use as a youth athletic facility.
The project represents part of ongoing efforts to bring new businesses and community resources to the Brookland Park area. Local officials have emphasized the importance of community-focused organizations in neighborhood revitalization efforts.
Cherry Pick’d Boxing has not announced when the facility will open to the public or details about programming and membership. The organization is expected to provide updates as renovation work progresses throughout the year.
Key Facts
- Cherry Pick’d Boxing purchased former bank building in Brookland Park from Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority
- Building sat vacant after previous revitalization project failed three years ago
- Facility will serve as youth boxing hub for Richmond-area young people
- Renovation work is currently underway with no announced opening date
