Those types of developments don’t fit the mold of mixed-use town center developments, like Potomac Town Center, Belmont Bay and the much talked about but yet to be developed Harbor Station.
Principi says he’s turned down a new shopping center, a drive through fast food restaurant and a new car dealership because they don’t fit his vision of a new Woodbridge, one that is built around higher densities, mass transit and open access to the Occoquan River.
Of the shopping centers that do exist along Jefferson Davis Highway (U.S. 1), Marumsco Plaza has already refaced the façade of the center and nearby Featherstone Square owners plan to do the same, said Principi.
The U.S. 1 corridor has long been known for its blighted buildings, snarled traffic, and a place where day laborers gather to find work.
Principi has said he has little ability to relocate the day laborers to another location because they are gathered on private property.
When it comes to improved roads, county officials approved plans to widen U.S. 1 between Mary’s Way and the Occoquan River from four to six lanes, including a new elevated interchange near the Woodbridge Virginia Railway Express station.
To fit the vision, some buildings will have to come down.
“We have been successful at collaborating with business/property owners to renovate and/or tear down 32 buildings along Route 1, targeted neighborhood and commercial sweeps by teams of county and state inspectors, and organized two dozen litter and landscape planting events, including clean-ups in Neabsco Creek and Veterans Park,” said Principi.
County inspectors have issued notices to property owners about their under maintained properties, and some property owners have decided to go to court after being issued the violations, added Principi.
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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.Â
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.
