Seara Burton Memorial Parkway Petition

         As you all know, today we are a city in Mourning. We have lost one of our city’s finest, in Officer Seara Burton. Richmond, as a community is feeling the heartbreak of this devastating loss. That is why I am here tonight. A community can come together over shared grief, and experience healing through honoring the sacrifice of such an amazing, selfless hero. I have not had time to yet assemble a petition and get signatures yet, but I have a proposal.             

         My proposal has two parts. The first is that I propose to have the stretch of road, from National Rd north on 20th street to where it curves around on N J street all the way to Chester Blvd, be renamed Seara Burton Memorial Parkway. This is a very well-travelled road known to all in Richmond. It encircles the very heart of Richmond.    

         The second part of my proposal involves my property bordering 20th Street. I am the owner of Rocket Pig Transport LLC, located at 2020 Hawkins Rd. The portion of my property has a large concrete retaining wall Nearly 300’ long. And as high as 5’ in places. I propose that I donate this wall to be home to a memorial mural, in honor of Officer Burton and all of the brave RPD officers. I had originally had plans to present the wall to The Richmond City School Board as a potential volunteer project for the high school art students. I was going to ask that the theme be one of Richmond Community Pride. I feel very strongly that this fits the theme. I am willing to donate some of the paint and supplies myself. What better way to show community pride than to honor the legacy of Officer Burton?   

           I hope you will consider my proposal. I have not had the privilege to know Officer Burton personally, but everyone of us, certainly knows and loves someone in law enforcement. When tragic events happen, the whole community feels it. I would like to offer my help in channeling the grief we all feel into a lasting memorial for our fallen warrior. Thank you for your time.

Daniel Wilker    Contact the author of the petition