Folks are gathering through Facebook to clean graffiti in the James River Park. I found out about this through the Byrd Park neighborhood blog which is gaining momentum.

photo credit to Stephen Brandt

A few months ago, one of the most beautiful spots in James River Park, if not in Richmond, was attacked by vandals – the flat rocks at the railroad bridge waterfall. In cooperation with the City of Richmond Parks Dept., Friends of James River Park, and Richmond Police, I am organizing this clean-up to scrub away this graffiti; this will bring these natural rock surfaces as close to their original state as possible, rather than having them painted w/ solid colors (the common procedure with such). I have already done some scrubbing of these rocks, and with a good number of volunteers I estimate this task will take about an hour or less. No harsh chemicals can be used, just wire brushes, water, and elbow grease.

For every two people, I request that you bring a pair of goggles (under $3 at Lowes) and a big wire brush with a comfortable handle (about $6 at Lowes). I also recommend bringing a bucket, an old towel (for padding stone areas for better comfort), water-worthy shoes, and something to quench your thirst. Meet at the Texas Ave. parking lot at 9am; if it rains, such will actually help the scrubbing process!

Through the FOJRP organization, this event counts as public service time for area students.

IF YOU CANNOT MAKE IT TO THIS EVENT but would like to donate goggles, wire brushes, refreshments, etc., do let me know!

PLEASE PASS THIS INVITATION ALONG TO YOUR FRIENDS! If you have any questions, feel free to contact me via facebook or via the email address included here. THANK YOU and I hope to see you there!