Woodbridge, Va. –– As gas prices rise and the demands on local transit agencies increase, one commuter bus operator says it’ll be tough to add more services.
Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Director Alfred H. Harf says trips on OmniRide commuter buses from Washington to Prince William County are filling up, particularly in the afternoons, but with every bus they own in service there is little they can do about the crowded conditions.
“PRTC cannot buy or lease more buses without additional funding from Prince William County and, given the current economic climate, that’s simply not possible…Even if PRTC had more buses, there is little money in the current budget to pay for the staffing, fuel and other costs necessary to run additional bus trips,” said Harf.
The director is also quick to point out that PRTC isn’t making a profit off of the increased ridership, noting fares cover just 56 percent of the total cost of operations and just 10 percent on local OmniLink buses.
His comments come as gas prices in the region average $3.89 per gallon, and are expected to increase to $4 per gallon.
Harf suggested riders take later trips, try working from home or teleworking, and to use Slug system where cars with three or more occupants can ride free on the High Occupancy Vehicle lanes on Interstates 95 and 395.
He also addressed the recent commuter parking challenge as of late, after Potomac Mills mall on Valentine’s Day slashed the number of commuter parking spaces there from 750 to 250.
The lot was popular among Slugs because of its proximity to Interstate 95.
Harf reminded riders a newly expanded, 600-space commuter lot is going to be built near the Horner Road lot off Prince William Parkway in Woodbridge, and that PRTC on May 2 will begin running shuttle service between the crowded Horner Road commuter lot at the newly created commuter lot at the First Baptist Church of Woodbridge at Prince William Parkway and Minnieville Road.
“The ride will be free for those transferring from another OmniRide bus or $1.20 for others payable with cash or SmarTrip card. Shuttles will leave Horner Road at 7:05 p.m., 7:26 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., and arrive at First Baptist approximately 10 minutes later. This shuttle service will use buses that normally would be going out of service for the night, and will cost PRTC just $15,000 annually thanks to the creative use of resources,” said Harf.
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JoinPotomac Point Winery in Stafford from Saturday, February 1, for a sweet treat.
Enjoy Chocolate & Wine Flights from 5 to 10 p.m., offering pairings served on illuminated flight stands adorned with hearts.
At just $20, this enchanting experience is the perfect way to kick off the season and add a little Valentine’s magic to your evening. Available in both the Bistro and Wine Tents, this is a must-try for all chocolate and wine lovers!
Have an event you’d like to share? It’s free to submit! Just fill out the simple form at this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Follow the instructions on the page to get your event featured!
For Virginians who spend hundreds of dollars on tolls each month, relief could be on the horizon — if lawmakers can stomach the price tag, reports the Virginia Mercury.
A proposal to ease toll burdens for frequent drivers and low-income residents cleared a key hurdle in the state legislature this week, as a House Transportation subcommittee advanced the measure for further review.
Prince William County Schools (PWCS) are embarking on an ambitious $1.098 billion Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) aimed at alleviating overcrowding, modernizing aging school facilities, and preparing for future shifts in student enrollment. The plan, presented at the January 15, 2025, school board work session, includes new school constructions, significant renovations, and sustainability-focused upgrades.
To address overcrowding in high-growth areas, PWCS will build multiple new schools, including:
Occoquan Replacement School – Scheduled to open in December 2025, this school will add 226 seats and include specialized programs for students with special education and autism support needs.
Woodbridge Area Elementary School – Opening in the 2026-2027 school year, this school will provide a capacity of approximately 632 students and will serve the Cardinal and Neabsco Mills Districts, areas currently experiencing significant overcrowding.
A mid-air collision near Reagan Washington National Airport Wednesday night claimed the lives of more than 60 individuals, including passengers and crew members from an American Airlines flight and military personnel. T
The crash occurred at 8:48 p.m. as American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was descending into the airport, colliding with a military helicopter on a standard training mission.
Authorities have confirmed that there are no survivors from the accident. The flight, which had 60 passengers and four crew members aboard, was on its final approach to DCA when it collided with the helicopter, which was also in a routine flight pattern along the Potomac River.
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.
