The revitalization of Richmond’s Intermediate Terminal Building represents an ambitious effort to transform a historic landmark into a cutting-edge hub for innovation, education, and community engagement. Originally constructed in 1929 as a key point for the exchange of goods along the James River, the building’s legacy of connectivity is being reimagined for the digital age. Under the leadership of AI Ready RVA, this initiative will shift the terminal’s purpose from facilitating the flow of physical goods to fostering the exchange of information, ideas, and innovation.
At the heart of this vision is the creation of a multimodal, open-source environment that integrates biological, human, and artificial intelligence. The hub will host AI-driven labs, educational programs, and collaborative spaces designed to empower local businesses, develop future-ready talent, and drive economic growth. With AI Ready RVA anchoring the project, the terminal will support a range of initiatives—from AI literacy pipelines to innovation summits—positioning Richmond as a national leader in ethical and inclusive technology development.
The project emphasizes sustainability and community-driven design, incorporating renewable energy systems and modular spaces that cater to public and private events. With a phased implementation plan and a $25 million funding strategy blending public, private, and philanthropic contributions, the initiative aims to foster job creation, environmental stewardship, and regional tourism. This transformation is more than a restoration; it is a commitment to Richmond’s future as a thriving hub of connectivity, innovation, and progress.
