News
Downtown Transfer Hub Moves One Step Closer to Reality for GRTC Riders
February 13, 2026
GRTC News
RICHMOND, Va. — The future of GRTC’s permanent Downtown Transfer Hub moved one step closer to reality for riders this week as Richmond City Council voted to transfer the former Public Safety Building property at 500 N. 10th Street to the City of Richmond’s Economic Development Authority. The action clears the way for the development of a modern transfer hub designed to improve connections, comfort, and reliability for riders.
“As both a member of City Council and the GRTC Board, I was proud to support transferring this property so we can move this long-standing site forward in a way that improves public transit and adds lasting value to our downtown community,” said Ellen Robertson, Treasurer/Secretary, GRTC Board of Directors and Richmond City Councilmember. “This development leads our Economic Development strategy for Richmond’s downtown Central Business District.”
The future Downtown Transfer Hub will sit at the crossroads with the planned North-South Pulse Bus Rapid Transit line, creating a central connection point for riders traveling throughout the city.
“This is a meaningful moment for our riders,” said Sheryl Adams, Chief Executive Officer, GRTC. “The new site will make it easier to transfer between routes, improve safety and reliability, and provide a more comfortable experience for the thousands of people who rely on transit.”
At the end of 2025, GRTC and the City of Richmond released a Request for Qualifications seeking development teams to help bring the project to life. The RFQ closed on January 30, 2026, and received multiple submissions, signaling strong interest in delivering a rider focused transit facility paired with a mixed-use development.
“This is the furthest GRTC has progressed on development of a permanent transfer hub,” said Adrienne Torres, Chief Development Officer, GRTC. “This positions us to advance a project that delivers both a modern transit facility and long-term economic value for the city.”
The project includes an ultramodern 10-bay transfer hub with enhanced passenger amenities and operator support spaces, replacing outdated facilities and improving overall rider experience. The development will include a privately developed mixed use to support a vibrant downtown.
“This is about momentum,” said Tyrone E. Nelson, Chair, GRTC Board of Directors. “Henrico is committed to expanding and strengthening service in our county, and projects like this make the entire regional system stronger for every rider.”
Planning and funding efforts for the transit component are moving forward as the project advances into its next phase. GRTC and the City expect to issue a Request for Proposals by summer2026, with final developer selection expected by the end of the year.