Parks in Drive

Richmond government has taken a lot of hits for poor management (and less savory characteristics). So it's worth highlighting one of the city's accomplishments: the restoration of Forest Hill lake, an urban gem that had grown choked and fetid from neglect.

The restoration is good news. What makes it even better: Project overseers finished the work early and under budget. Metropolitan Environmental Services, the Ohio firm that did the spade work, gets much of the credit. But city officials merit praise for putting the project in motion and making sure it got done well.

The city is upgrading features in Bryan and Byrd parks, too. The various improvements count as no small feat in a time of tight budgetary constraints. Consider the drive to improve the parks a sign the city is gradually turning things around.