Approximately 42.5 million Americans are planning to travel 50 miles or more from home this Thanksgiving holiday, with most of them planning to put rubber to the road.
Once again this year the automobile will carry 90 percent of holiday travelers to grandma’s house as an expected 38.2 million people expected to hit the roads this week, a four percent increase over last year.
“This year, it is all about family, friends, food and giving thanks for our bounty and blessings. That’s why we are projecting and seeing a big increase in the number of Thanksgiving travelers, as many Americans are planning to leave town, after having foregone holiday travel over the last three years,” said AAA Mid-Atlantic spokesman Lon Anderson. “As consumers weigh the fear of economic uncertainty and the desire to spend more quality time with their loved ones this holiday, more Americans is expected to choose family and friends over frugality.”
Gas prices in the Potomac Communities are up more than 16 percent over this time last year, averaging $3.31 per gallon. That, coupled with an economy that is improving only slightly is the reason why American’s plan to travel a shorter distance than last year, an average of 706 miles down from 816.
To help guide motorists through state and to let them know where to expect potential delays, the Virginia Department of Transportation has created interactive traffic maps based on historical traffic data outlining where, and what time of day over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend backups can occur.
Interstate 95, the main thoroughfare here in the Potomac Communities, sees delays starting Wednesday morning lasting throughout the day. It’s heaviest between 4 and 7 p.m., especially south of Dumfries, according VDOT.
Coming home on Sunday, the drivers on the highway could experience heavy traffic along the highway, especially in the Dumfries area, stated VDOT.
On I-95 and 395’s High Occupancy Vehicle lanes, regular restrictions will be in place on Wednesday and Friday, allowing vehicles with three or more occupants to using the lanes from 6 to 9 a.m. northbound and 3:30 to 6 p.m. southbound both days. The lanes will run south from 1 p.m. Friday until 2 p.m. Saturday, then will be reversed allowing drivers to head north at 4 p.m. Saturday.
On the HOV lanes on I-66 will also operate regular restrictions on Wednesday and Friday, allowing vehicles with two or more occupants to travel in them from 6:30 to 9 a.m. eastbound and 4 to 6:30 p.m. westbound inside the Capital Beltway. Outside the Beltway, left-land HOV restrictions are from 5:30 to 9:30 a.m. eastbound and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. westbound.
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The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved an additional $472,000 in federal funding to advance the Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project, a critical initiative to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Occoquan. The funding comes through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, bringing the project closer to completion.
The project, which has evolved since its inception, will construct 675 feet of sidewalk along Ellicott Street, connecting Mill Street to Poplar Alley and extending toward Union Street. It also includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps and crossings to address accessibility concerns. The initiative aims to create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly connection between the town’s historic and business districts and the planned Occoquan Greenway trail.
“The Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project is one of several pedestrian improvement efforts we’ve pursued over the years,” said Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta. “This specific project will create a safer, more contiguous connection to Mill Street and the town’s historic and business district.”
All Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) locations are scheduled to open at 1 p.m on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. This delayed opening is due to ongoing impacts from Winter Storm Blair. Library officials advise that opening times may be adjusted further if weather or road conditions worsen.
The CRRL serves residents in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Westmoreland counties, offering various services beyond traditional book lending. The library system provides access to technology, community events, educational programs, and resources like homework help, job search tools, and genealogical research. Its facilities include multiple branches, mobile libraries, and digital collections that can be accessed online.
Patrons are encouraged to check the library’s website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on hours and services.
Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run.
This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy the music and experience the welcoming community at St. George’s.
Stafford County Public Schools announced that Nevaeh Lewis of Colonial Forge High School and Emma Siegmund of Rodney Thompson Middle School have been selected for prestigious roles in Virginia’s legislative programs. Lewis will serve as a House of Delegates Page, while Siegmund has been chosen as a Senate Page. These appointments provide hands-on opportunities to learn about government and leadership during the upcoming General Assembly session in Richmond beginning January 8.
Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith praised the students, stating that these roles will help develop leadership skills and inspire civic engagement. Both programs include working with legislators, participating in committee meetings, and engaging in civics and leadership education. Pages will also take part in mock legislative sessions and community service projects.
Siegmund, a high-achieving middle schooler with a 4.0+ GPA, is active in Model United Nations, the National Junior Honors Society, and other academic programs and is the daughter of county school board chair Maureen Siegmund. Lewis, a talented artist and performer, is also deeply involved in her church and community.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
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.
Featuring:
