The Richmond City Land Use, Housing, and Transportation Standing Committee convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss significant developments in the Shaco project, which aims to honor the history of slavery in America through various initiatives and memorials.

The Shaco project encompasses multiple elements, including the relocation of the Emily Winfrey Cottage, the establishment of the Shaco Institute, and the creation of memorials and interpretive centers. The committee highlighted the relocation of the Emily Winfrey Cottage, a historic structure that tells the story of a remarkable woman from the late 19th century. The cottage is set to be moved to a new site across from Blackwell Elementary School, with an estimated cost of $1.5 million.

Another key component is the Shaco Institute, which has received an $11 million grant from the Mellon Foundation to develop exhibits that explore the impact of racial slavery on American history. The institute is currently working with local consultants to design a 12,000 square foot exhibit hall, with construction expected to begin soon and completion anticipated in late spring or early summer of 2026.

The committee also discussed improvements to the Richmond Slave Trail, which chronicles the history of the slave trade in Virginia. The project, which includes enhancements to Ann Carroll's Landing and the Slave Trail, is budgeted at over $2 million and is scheduled to start this year, with completion expected by spring 2026.

The Lumpkin's Slave Jail Pavilion, another significant aspect of the Shaco project, is currently in the design phase. This pavilion will serve as a memorial to the enslaved individuals who passed through the area. The total budget for the pavilion and associated memorials is approximately $45 million, with funding sourced from both state and city contributions.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to preserving and interpreting the history of slavery, with plans for a National Slavery Museum as a long-term goal. The Shaco project aims to create a reflective space that honors the legacy of enslaved people and educates the public about this critical aspect of American history. The committee's discussions mark a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to develop this multifaceted project.