Richmond has treated me well the past 15 years I've lived here. I grew up in the suburbs and now currently live in the city proper by way of Church Hill, adjacent to downtown.
I love the history, the historic architecture and the recreational areas along the James River. We don't have a rush hour; it's more like a rush minute. Richmond is home to several educational institutions, which allows for a steady supply of fresh people and fresh ideas into the community. Our crime rates continue to fall and the population of the city proper is now growing (2007 Census est.)
Some the City’s political issues that stifle progressive ideas and policies constantly bewilder me. The outlying counties have been slow to implement effective smart growth policies, but I have hope for the future that the endless sprawl will eventually be reeled in.
That is my take and rant on my hometown. As always, I have a huge library of photos on my web site:
http://richmondcitywatch.com
[My photo]