Carytown just got a serious facelift, and it’s bringing some retro swagger to one of Richmond’s most iconic spots. On Friday night, the shopping district unveiled its new Art Deco-style sign—a sleek, neon gateway hanging over Cary Street.
According to The Richmonder, Mayor Levar Stoney was in full “let’s make history” mode as he led the charge, telling the gathered crowd to get ready for the big reveal. Funded by about $100,000 in American Rescue Plan money — the same funds aimed at helping local businesses recover from the COVID slump — the project has been in the works for a while. The Carytown Merchants Association, teaming up with city officials, pushed this thing through to give the district the kind of entrance that turns heads.
Gone is the old, wooden sign that had been hanging out near the entrance forever. In its place is a bold, double-sided marker that can be seen from both directions. Carytown’s finally got a welcome sign that fits its vibe. Kelley Banks, co-owner of Merrymaker Fine Paper and board member of the Carytown Merchants Association, has been in the trenches on this one for two years, using her architecture background to make sure it hits all the right notes.
And hit it does. The design is a nod to Carytown’s roots, channeling the Art Deco style from 1938 when the Cary Court shopping center first opened its doors. Local design firm Campfire & Co., along with Wellcraft MFG and Messer Contracting, nailed the look, right down to a nine-pointed star embedded in the design, symbolizing the nine blocks that make up Carytown.
City Councilor Stephanie Lynch was there too, calling the project a huge win for community collaboration. Carytown’s over 230 small businesses have had to roll with the punches the last few years, but the fact they’re still standing is a testament to their collective grit. They’ve powered through with a little help from this kind of teamwork, and the new sign feels like a symbol of that resilience.
Mayor Stoney echoed that sentiment, pointing out that Carytown’s businesses have stuck around because they believe in Richmond. The new sign isn’t just a marker—it’s a badge of survival.
Photos by Dave Parrish
