Al Harris

Two local labs sign deal

Chesterfield biotech firm Commonwealth Biotechnologies plans to sell off segments of its business to Bostwick Laboratories, which is based in the West End. Bostwick plans to go public this year.

So far stimulus saves 160 jobs

The U.S. Recovery Act has saved or created 160 jobs in Richmond so far, according to the city’s newly launched stimulus tracker.

Area apartment vacancy rising

Real estate researcher Reis Inc. reported last week that the national apartment vacancy rate reached 7.5 percent in the second quarter; the rate for Richmond was higher at 8.1 percent. But Patrick McCloud, president of the Central Virginia Apartment Association, said despite the record high vacancy levels Richmond is holding up well and that the rental market is showing signs of improvement.

Kaine urges all to work from home Aug 3

This week Gov. Tim Kaine declared Monday August 3 to be Telework Day. Businesses and employees can pledge to work remotely from their homes on the Telework Exchange website. The goal is to reduce greenhouse emissions produced by the daily commute, ease congestion on the roadways, and improve work/life balance. “Telework is a family-friendly, business-friendly… Read more »

Rainwater rules cast cloud over development

Developers are lining up in opposition to new storm water requirements they say will dramatically increase the cost of development in the commonwealth, and may even scare off the sort of large companies that could bring thousands of new jobs.

The Pipeline: Commercial Real Estate Round Up for 7.17.09

Petco, a national pet store chain, leased 14,600 square feet at Staples Mill Square in Henrico.DVA Healthcare Renal Care leased 7,000 square feet at 8801-8815 Three Chopt Rd. in Henrico. Rugged Wearhouse leased 14,111 square feet at Circuit City Plaza in Henrico

A coffee-fueled expansion

A local café chain is gearing up to open its newest location this fall. The coffee-house meets -wine-bar also is reported to now have some backing from the parent company of Outback Steakhouse.

GRTC gets $2.3 million grant

Senator Jim Webb announced today a $2.3 million boost to Richmond’s public transportation system.