Woodbridge, Va. –– Residents and business owners in North Woodbridge are about to find out just how wide U.S. 1 is going to get.
State and Prince William County transportation officials will be on hand tonight from 5 to 8 p.m. to discuss a $228 million project to widen the four lane highway to six lanes, as well as construct an interchange at Gordon Boulevard (Va. 123) and U.S. 1.
Planners and elected officials have long said project is the impetus for new growth the long beleaguered section of Prince William.
The widening will take place between Mary’s Way and the Occoquan River, and Gordon Boulevard (Va. 123) will be widened to six lanes between the planned interchange at U.S. 1 and Interstate 95.
The interchange will carry Va. 123 over U.S. 1 in an effort to separate the lanes of traffic, connecting Va. 123 to Belmont Bay Drive, providing better access to a Virginia Railway Express station and the Belmont Bay mixed-use neighborhood.
The interchange using elevated ramps to carry cars up to an elevated Va. 123 will eliminate signal lights at U.S. 1 and Va. 123 and at U.S. 1 and Annapolis Way just prior to the Occoquan River
The light at U.S. 1 and Occoquan Road will remain, however, new through and turn lanes would improve traffic flow, according to VDOT.
The public hearing will take place at the Botts Fire Hall at 1306 F Street in Woodbridge.
Later this summer, the Prince William County Board of Supervisors will have to approve the project and construction would begin in 2014.
Recent Stories
Virginia’s General Assembly convened on January 8 for the start of its 30-day session. To keep readers informed on their local representatives’ efforts, we’ve reviewed some of their bills and votes.
Manassas continues to make strides in its commitment to fostering a business environment, with the Manassas Business Council (NBC) and the Economic Development Authority (EDA) reflecting on the city’s ongoing growth and vision for future projects. Both organizations presented their annual reports during the city council meeting on January 27, 2025, highlighting key initiatives, business growth, and revitalization efforts. The Manassas Business Council’s efforts to connect with local businesses have paid off with a year of meetings, presentations, and discussions. Key highlights from their year include monthly meetings with industry experts, discussions about economic development in the city, and presentations on projects such as the façade and landscape improvement grants. Notably, the city’s economic development initiatives were discussed, including the work to support small businesses and increase community engagement. Council members were also informed about the successes of local restaurants and the efforts to make Historic Downtown Manassas a business district.
Amid heightened immigration enforcement under President Trump’s executive orders, local communities are grappling with confusion and fear sparked by social media posts warning of ICE raids and undercover operations.
The president issued numerous Executive Orders, some of which reinforced the enforcement of U.S. immigration laws. In addition to targeted raids on known criminals across the country, the Trump administration has mobilized troops at the U.S.-Mexico border and reinstated the previous “Remain in Mexico” policy. This policy requires individuals seeking asylum to stay outside the U.S. while awaiting a decision on their applications.
These enforcement measures have sparked concern among those residing in the country illegally. Despite the Trump administration’s assurances that it is focusing on illegal immigrants with criminal convictions, certain groups have seized on the uncertainty, pushing political agendas that confuse the undocumented community, causing fear and confusion. Numerous social media posts, in both English and Spanish, warn people to avoid common locations like grocery stores and shopping centers to prevent encounters with ICE.
(The Center Square) — Despite budget increases in the hundreds of millions and multiple statewide education initiatives, Virginia students still aren’t showing a definitive recovery from pandemic learning lows.
Their test scores from January 2024 declined from their 2022 scores – the scores that caused Gov. Glenn Youngkin to call for major education reforms – in several areas.
The National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the “nation’s report card,” measures several subjects but is most known for its 4th and 8th grade math and reading tests.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
