Join

Will tourism still be a priority for Prince William County, Manassas?

manassas tourismTourism is picking up in Prince William, but the group in charge of promoting the region faces cuts in their upcoming budget.

Discover Prince William/Manassas promotes the County and Manassas City as a destination for family vacations and those who are looking to connect with history. A total of $505 million is spent each year in the county and $65 million in the city by tourists visiting the region, according to agency director Ann Marie Maher. The tourism industry created more than 6,000 jobs in the region, she added.

Despite the numbers, as well as several factors like the opening of two new hotels, the continued development of Potomac Shores as a destination, and the Hylton Performing Arts Center, the agency expects a budget shortfall of about $370,000 next year. The  agency would operate on a $1 million budget. 

The shortfall could lead to the closure of a visitor center in Occoquan, a scale back of Discover’s marketing and advertising efforts, and a reduction in staff, and wage freezes for employees in its western Prince William County office.

Manassas City funds 8% of Discover’s budget, and officials there are evaluating just how much money the city will provide the agency. Manassas also funds Historic Manassas, Inc., which is charged with drawing local and regional crowds to the city’s Downtown.

“We won’t reduce the amount of money we spend on promoting Manassas, but we want to make sure we’re getting the best bang for our buck,” said Manassas City Manager Patrick Pate.

Maher said her office does a great job to promote the region, and city officials understand that even if they decide to reduce funding.

“There’s a thought that Prince William County promotes the area to get tourists here, so it might be easier for the city to just market to them when they’re already here,” said Maher.

Prince William officials are expected to approve their 2016 budget later this month. Manassas will approve its city budget afterward.

While funding for local tourism is sorted out, the number of visitors to Virginia continues to increase thanks to the state’s connection to history, and a growing film industry. Film projects such as HBO’s John Adams, Lincoln, Evan Almighty, and the AMC-TV series Turn were shot in the Commonwealth. That helps to bring in travelers.

“People want to walk in the footsteps of Lincoln, and great movie directors like Steven Speilberg,” said Virginia Tourism Corporation President and CEO Rita McClenny.

She spoke to those who gathered Friday afternoon for the “Impact of Tourism” event hosted by the Prince William Chamber of Commerce at Stonewall Golf Club. Virginia’s outdoor destinations, it’s beaches, Colonial Williamsburg, and shopping are the state’s top tourism drivers, she added.

Looking to capitalize on the outdoors, Discover Prince William / Manassas showed a new video depicting a family vacationing in the area and visiting Leesylvania State Park on the Potomac River in Woodbridge, Manassas Battlefield National Park, and Historic Downtown Manassas. The video was designed to attract families to the region.

Discover hopes to produce additional videos to target more specialized markets such as military reunions and outdoor enthusiasts. If funding is reduced, Maher said, the new videos may not be made.

Recent Stories

The mother of a former student at North Stafford High School has filed a lawsuit against the county school division seeking $15 million in compensatory damages, alleging failure to protect her child.

Virginia is beginning to experience some of the impacts from the cargo ship crash that brought down Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, closing a vital shipping lane leading to one of the eastern seaboard’s busiest ports.

Rep. Abigail Spanberger was in Stafford County on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 to tout her efforts to bring federal dollars to the district.

Route 1 is closed at Port Potomac in Woodbridge, near Cardinal Drive. 

Are you facing life’s challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth? Embrace the path to emotional well-being with our expert psychotherapy services!

Why Choose Us?

Our team of compassionate and experienced psychotherapists is here to guide you on your journey to inner peace, self-discovery, and positive change. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Dreaming of small-town charm with big-city convenience? Look no further than 7156 Main St in Clifton, Virginia! Nestled just 30 miles from the heart of Washington D.C., this picturesque property offers the best of both worlds.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to find tranquility in this quaint, historic town. With its tree-lined streets and friendly community atmosphere, Clifton is the perfect place to call home. Yet, with its close proximity to the nation’s capital, you’ll never be far from the excitement and opportunities of urban living.

Imagine weekends exploring local shops, dining at charming cafes, and enjoying outdoor adventures in nearby parks. Then, commute to D.C. for work or play, soaking in all the culture, entertainment, and career opportunities the city has to offer.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 32nd Annual Van Metre 5K Run, a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, and every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and

Ă—

Subscribe to our mailing list