Lynchburg moves forward with College Park stormwater and park improvements

The City of Lynchburg is moving ahead with the College Park Improvements Project, a two-phase effort aimed at reducing flooding, improving water quality and revitalizing a 60-year-old park along Breckenbridge Street near the University of Lynchburg.

Planning for College Park began in 2004, with a master planning process that engaged residents and city staff to establish long-term goals for restoring a small creek, improving access and enhancing recreational amenities. The fully funded project reflects community input gathered during neighborhood engagement efforts in 2021 and is expected to be completed by 2030.

Phase 1 of the project will focus on stormwater improvements and will be managed by Lynchburg Water Resources. Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and is expected to take approximately 12 months. Planned upgrades include enlarging stormwater ponds to increase capacity from a one-year to a 10-year storm event, reducing localized flooding within the park. Native grasses, wildflowers, shrubs and trees will be installed along pond edges to improve filtration, stabilize slopes and enhance aesthetics. The project also includes updated pipes and culverts to improve drainage efficiency and reduce standing water.

Following completion of stormwater work, Phase 2 will shift to park improvements and pedestrian connectivity under Lynchburg Parks & Recreation. Planned enhancements include new walking loops, picnic and overlook areas, ADA-accessible entrances, a relocated basketball court, play areas, bike racks, improved crossings and upgraded off-street parking, further supporting recreation while protecting downstream waterways.