WOODBRIDGE, Va. — A pilot test designed to improve commuter bus fuel efficiency was so successful that the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission, PRTC, is now proceeding to retrofit more than two dozen buses with the technology.
Pilot testing began last fall, when PRTC agreed to partner with Engineered Machined Products Inc., EMP, on a first-ever test in which EMP engineered and installed its Mini-Hybrid radiator cooling equipment on one of PRTC’s commuter buses. EMP’s equipment was previously tested on conventional transit buses, (those that travel at relatively low speeds and make frequent stops), yielding such impressive fuel efficiency savings that the cooling system is now used by a number of transit systems that operate conventional transit buses, including PRTC. But the cooling system had never been tested on a motor coach that typically operates at higher speeds for longer distances, such as the buses that make up the majority of PRTC’s fleet.
After the pilot cooling system was installed at EMP’s expense, the bus was returned to PRTC and placed back into regular service. During the next several months, PRTC compared the bus’s fuel efficiency with statistics for the same bus that were recorded before the equipment installation.
The test results, completed in July, showed that the retrofitted bus is now 15 percent more fuel efficient. By retrofitting 29 more buses, PRTC will save approximately $133,000 per year in fuel costs. With savings of that magnitude, the cost of the cooling system retrofit will be recovered in less than three years.
“All of the buses slated for the retrofit will remain in service for significantly longer than three years, thus yielding additional savings to benefit local taxpayers,” said PRTC Executive Director Al Harf.
The retrofits will be done while the buses are undergoing already-scheduled mid-life overhauls. The on-going mid-life overhaul program rebuilds buses manufactured between 2002-2006, outfitting them with new engines, transmissions, suspension systems, brakes, seats and more. Only buses that have not yet been overhauled will be outfitted with the new fuel-efficiency equipment.
By the end of 2013, more than 1/3 of PRTC’s fleet will have the Mini-Hybrid equipment either installed originally at the factory as part of a new bus manufacture or retrofitted under this program. Among the new buses are 13 funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation through its discretionary Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) program, six of which have already been delivered.
The Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission, PRTC, provides commuter and local bus services as well as rideshare services in the Prince William County area of Northern Virginia, about 25 miles west of Washington, D.C.
-Press release
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Rania Lateef, a senior at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School and the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park, daughter of Prince William School Board Chairman Babur Lateef, has been named one of 40 finalists in the prestigious 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS). Selected from nearly 2,500 applicants nationwide, Rania is recognized for her groundbreaking research on the effects of artificial light and circadian disruption on biobehavioral systems in Drosophila melanogaster. Her work highlights the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on physical and mental health.
Rania credited her success to the supportive academic community of Prince William County Public Schools, her teachers Stephanie Brown and Dr. Alexis Patanarut, and her unique opportunities at GS@IP. As a finalist, she has already won $27,000 and will compete for additional awards totaling over $1.8 million during a week-long event in Washington, D.C., in March 2025. Rania’s journey emphasizes the power of passion and commitment in achieving meaningful scientific discoveries.
The Woodbridge District invites residents to join a Community Update Town Hall Meeting hosted by Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin. This virtual event offers an opportunity for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives in the community.
Details of the Town Hall:
Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Residents can participate in the meeting by joining the Zoom session.
On January 24, 2025, at 12:25 a.m., Sergeant E.E. West responded to a single-vehicle crash at the McDonald’s on Wonder Road. An intoxicated driver, identified as Juan Gomez Alvarez, 38, of North Carolina, entered the drive-thru at a high rate of speed, struck a sign, and came to rest at an awkward angle, blocking the lane.
Gomez Alvarez displayed red, glassy eyes and had a strong odor of alcohol. The investigation revealed that he had been convicted of DUI in New York just the previous day, making this his second offense in five years. He was charged with DUI second offense, refusal, and destruction of property and was taken to Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
The Prince William County Circuit Court Clerk announced the continuation of the “Seals on Wheels” initiative for 2025. This mobile services program, led by Circuit Court Clerk Jacqueline C. Smith, brings essential court services directly to community members in Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park. Services include marriage licenses, name changes, notary oaths, and concealed handgun permits.
The program’s 2025 schedule begins in March and will visit various community locations, including libraries and local events such as the Occoquan Riverfest and Haymarket Day. Residents can save time and money by accessing services at convenient locations. For updated schedules and information, follow the Circuit Court Clerk’s social media or visit their website.
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.
