It’s called a Purchase of Development Rights Program (PDR) where the government buys a farmer’s land, then leaves it in the hands of the farmer who can continue to use it for agriculture, but can never build on it, or sell it to anyone else.
A newly proposed resolution from Prince William County School Board members Alyson Satterwhite and Willie Deutsch rules out four of six viable alternatives to developing the Rural Crescent, the last remaining, largely rural, crescent-shaped tract of land from Quantico Marine Corps Base to Manassas National Battlefield Park.
For the elected school board members, out are proposed county-alternatives (here they are in PDF) that would
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- Run sewer and water to existing homes in the Rural Crescent
- Build cluster developments (high concentrations of homes and smaller portions of land, with water and sewer)
- Proposals to let existing Rural Crescent property owners sell the development rights (TDR) for their properties to a private developer
- About 10,000 homes would be built along the boundary of the Rural Crescent, dubbed the “transition ribbon” under this plan
- Afterward, the PDR plan would remain the largest viable path forward for the future of the rural area
- Taxpayers would be on the hook to buy the land, and, as of today, there’s no pot of county money set aside to use, so the county would rely heavily on state funding and grants
Most homes in the Rural Crescent use well and septic systems. Public utilities are frowned upon here as residents fear extending them would spur more development.
The school board members are expecting their proposal to be heard at the Sept. 18 Prince William County School Board meeting. They aim to prevent an estimated 31,000 new residents, and 6,780 new public school students from moving into new homes built on the transition ribbon, taking up space in already crowded schools.
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors — which will ultimately decide on whether or not to develop the Rural Crescent — has taken notice, too. Brentsville District Supervisor Jeanine Lawson in an email to constituents Thursday night called this a “war… for the Rural Cresent.”
She’ll be joined by fellow Supervisors Peter Candland and Frank Principi at a town hall meeting about the issue at 7 p.m. Monday, at Stonewall Jackson Senior High School just outside Manassas.
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The Stafford County Simply Perfect Wedding Expo is coming up on February 8, 2025, at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Fredericksburg! This event is a must for couples planning their big day, featuring top wedding vendors, venues, florists, caterers, photographers, and more—all in one place.
If you’re a wedding professional, vendor opportunities are available, but spaces are limited. Don’t miss your chance to connect with engaged couples ready to plan their special day!
Prince William County Sheriff Glendell Hill announced that online applications are open for the Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute (VSI) Scholarship Program for the 2025-2026 school year.
The scholarship provides financial assistance to students attending Virginia colleges and universities who are majoring in criminal justice, excluding those pursuing a law degree or legal career. Applicants must obtain a letter of recommendation from their resident sheriff before applying.
Prince William County residents must contact the Sheriff’s Office by April 4, 2025, to schedule an appointment with Sheriff Hill for the recommendation. The deadline to submit the online application and required documents is May 1, 2025. More details and application materials are available on the VSI website.
Prince William County has scrapped its $300 million Route 28 Bypass project, leaving residents and officials debating the next steps for traffic relief. The project, which would have taken 70 homes, faced rising costs, land acquisition hurdles, and a lack of Fairfax County support. Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis Younger criticized the decision, saying her city is “stuck in the middle.” Meanwhile, State Sen. Danica Roem is pushing forward with $62.5 million in intersection improvements. A town hall on Route 28’s future will be held Feb. 26 at Manassas Park City Hall. Read more about what’s next for local transportation.
A pedestrian crash in Nokesville claimed the life of a Manassas man, while Stafford deputies used drones and SWAT tactics to track down an armed suspect who fled into the woods. In another unusual case, an intoxicated man mistook a Bible study for a human trafficking operation, forcing his way inside and threatening attendees. Additional incidents include a DUI arrest, multiple fraud cases, stolen vehicles, and public intoxication. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. Click the headline for the full story.
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.
