These articles focus two Virginia cities' approaches to community livability. "Roanoke continues tradition of forging new paths" highlights the city's efforts in the areas of neighborhood revitalization, historic preservation, and public-private partnership, as well as its focus on public safety, education and training for city residents, and the natural environment. "Richmond blends history, neighborhoods, business climate" highlights that city's urban renewal and diversified economic base, and its nontraditional funding for community development. In April 2004, both cities received national recognition from the Partners for Livable Communities. Reprinted with permission of the Virginia Municipal League.