Woodbridge, Va. — OmniLink bus riders may no longer be able to get a free bus transfer from Potomac Mills mall.
The Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission is considering eliminating the last free transfer in the OmniLink system for riders of the Dumfries and Dale City OmniLink routes between the shopping mall and the PRTC Transit Center on Potomac Mills Road in Woodbridge.
If free transfers go away, riders who are now paying $2.40 round trip could purchase a day pass for $2.50, which would be good for unlimited rides on the OmniLink system for that particular day. (Seniors over the age of 60 pay $1.25 for the day pass).
The transit agency is accepting written comments about the proposed change via email, and hand written comments can be mailed to the transit center until Aug. 17. The agency also wants to know if area residents would like a public hearing on this matter.
The free transfer is left over from 2000 when the shopping mall was the central transfer hub for the OmniLink system in eastern Prince William County, and fares were only 75 cents per one-way trip and transfers cost a quarter, according to a letter from PRTC Executive Director Al Harf to PRTC Commissioner John Jenkins
The transfer hub was later moved from the mall to the PRTC Transit Center, and currently OmniLink riders pay $1.20 per one-way trip.
Transit officials say eliminating the free transfer would illicit use of paper transfers and the use of paper transfer altogether, speed up service by eliminating the need for drivers to verify a paper transfer, and to oust an “outdated policy.”
PRTC center
Recent Stories
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.
A mid-air collision occurred Wednesday evening over the Potomac River involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, operating as American Airlines Flight 5342, and a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter. At least 30 bodies have been recovered so far.
The crash occurred around 9 p.m. local time while the Bombardier CRJ700 approached Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on its flight from Wichita, Kansas. The collision prompted a large-scale rescue operation, with more than 300 first responders deployed.
The crash site, located in the Potomac River, is surrounded by icy and dark waters, complicating efforts to recover survivors. D.C. Fire and EMS, along with local and regional fire departments, police, and the U.S. Coast Guard, have been working tirelessly to locate and retrieve victims from the wreckage. Chief John Donnelly of D.C. Fire and EMS highlighted the dangers of the situation, saying, “The water we’re operating in is about eight feet deep. There is wind and pieces of ice, making it extremely dangerous and difficult to work.”
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.
