In June 2023, VPM unveiled plans for a cutting-edge headquarters in the heart of Downtown Richmond’s Historic Monroe Ward. On Thursday, community members and VPM representatives gathered at the future site at 15 E. Broad St. to celebrate the start of construction in a unique way— with a block party.

“We are enormously grateful to have had the opportunity to celebrate this major milestone in our project with our team, volunteers, neighbors and partners, who braved a tropical storm to be part of this historic moment for VPM, as well as the City of Richmond,” said Jayme Swain, president and CEO of VPM and the Virginia Foundation for Public Media. “We are so excited to be part of the Historic Monroe Ward community and to welcome the public into our new home in 2026.”

Attendees were treated to music, food from local food trucks and a first look at where the new building will stand when construction is complete. Swain provided some remarks before introducing Richmond Mayor Levar M. Stoney, who expressed his eagerness to welcome VPM to Downtown Richmond.

VPM’s move to the Monroe Ward community centralizes its news and content production operations, making them more accessible. The relocation ensures VPM is present in the Richmond community and can seamlessly cover local news in and around the city, according to a press release. The new facility also will feature a street-level community studio and event space equipped to host audiences for broadcast events and other live experiences.

Construction of the new building officially began Aug. 12 and is expected to be completed in 2026. Signs posted on the fences around the construction site previews what the completed building will look like and provides a QR code directing users to more information on the project. Updates on the progress of the new headquarters will be posted to forward.vpm.org.