FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 11, 2026
City of Charlottesville Announces Rivanna Trail Cleanup and Outreach Effort
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The City of Charlottesville will conduct a coordinated cleanup and outreach effort along portions of the Rivanna Trail on March 24 and 25.
The effort is part of the City’s ongoing work to address public safety, environmental protection, and community health concerns in areas where individuals are currently living outdoors.
The March 24–25 cleanup will be conducted by Signature Property Maintenance LLC and will focus on removing trash and debris from impacted sections of the trail. Funding for the cleanup will total approximately $2,400, supported through a combination of opioid abatement funding and Parks and Recreation resources.
In addition to debris removal, the City is working to mitigate potential water quality impacts in the area. Plans include the installation of portable restrooms and secure needle disposal containers to reduce environmental and public health risks.
City staff will also conduct outreach with individuals currently staying in the area. Outreach efforts will include distributing informational materials and providing fire safety guidance related to heaters, open flames, and carbon monoxide risks, as well as information about available community services.
The City is developing a recurring maintenance schedule for the area. Staff will monitor conditions on a monthly basis and conduct cleanups at least quarterly moving forward.
At the same time, the City continues to work with local service providers to advance plans for a low-barrier shelter, including identifying an operator(s) for the facility located at Holiday Drive.
Additional outreach materials, including a fact sheet outlining services and safety guidance, will be distributed during the cleanup effort.
The City remains committed to balancing public safety, environmental stewardship, and compassionate outreach as it works with community partners to address the challenges of unsheltered homelessness.
Media Contact
Afton Schneider
Director of Communications and Public Engagement
City of Charlottesville
434-996-0331
media@charlottesville.gov