Some long-serving members of the Virginia Railway Express Operations Board — some of whom date back to the founding of the commuter railroad in 1991 — said goodbye.
Sharon Bulova, who represents Fairfax County on the commission, and who is the retiring Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman, served decades on the commission. She described how it took an act of congress to create the commuter railroad, explaining how the host railroads, Norfolk Southern and CSX demanded to be let off the hook an accident were to happen on the tracks used by VRE trains.
“Now, to leave when we’re going to have our own right-of-way, we’re going to be able to take our place at the regional transportation table,” said Bulova.
Just before Christmas, Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam announced a $3.7 billion deal to purchase 350 miles of the railroad right of way for new track to be laid in next to the existing track on the Fredericksburg line. It’ll mean VRE trains will no longer have to fight with CSX for a spot on the rails, allowing VRE to double service by 75%.
The deal will also bring the construction of a nearly new $2 billion Long Bridge across the Potomac River, linking Arlington and Washington, D.C. The bridge will double the capacity of the number of trains that currently travel through the corridor.
Maureen Caddigan, who has a VRE locomotive named for her, is also retiring from public service. “It’s been an honor to be a part of this organization,” she said.
VRE Operations and Arlington County Board Chair Katie Cristol credited Caddigan with opening many doors for women to serve. “I’m grateful for that,” said Cristol.
Caddigan has been the Potomac District Supervisor (formerly Dumfries District) since 1992 and has long advocated for Potomac Shores, a mixed-use neighborhood near Dumfries that is slated to soon have a new VRE station.
“We’re going to take care of Potomac Shores for you,” said Jeanine Lawson, Prince William County’s Brentsville District Supervisor and VRE Operations Board member.
Outgoing Prince William County Coles District Supervisor Marty Nohe is also leaving the VRE board. “For the last 11 years, I’ve got to be the face of the solution of the thing Northern Virginians hate most,” said Nohe. ”Northern Virginians hate traffic like the rest of the world hates Mondays.”
Also departing is Fairfax County Braddock District Supervisor John Cook and Stafford County Rock Hill District Supervisor Wendy Maurer.
“When you serve as long as you have with these people, they become like family… this is an end of an era for this organization,” said Matt Kelly, who serves on the VRE board and on the Fredericksburg City Council. This was the leadership that got us to the long bridge decision yesterday, now passing to a new generation… I hope everyone recognizes the accomplishments you’ve made.”
The new VRE Operations Board is expected to meet in January 2020.
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Join us on Friday, January 10, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m., with a special Ribbon Cutting at 2 p.m. Be inspired by keynote speaker Rita McClenny, President & CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation while enjoying a light reception featuring classic Fredericksburg favorites.
Location: 601 Caroline Street, 1st Floor, Fredericksburg
For event inquiries, contact: 540-372-1216 | [email protected]
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Planet Fitness opened its first location in Stafford. The new 30,900-square-foot facility, located at 1455 Stafford Market Place in the Stafford Market Place shopping center, is designed to provide a welcoming, judgment-free environment for individuals at all fitness levels.
The building used to house a Best Buy that announced its closure one year ago after 16 years in business. Our coverage of the closure was some of the most-read content on Potomac Local News in 2024.
The Stafford location features state-of-the-art equipment, including strength machines, free weights, a dedicated area for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and a functional training room with turf for agility exercises. Members can also access amenities such as fully equipped locker rooms with showers, a mobility and stretching space, and free WiFi.
A highlight of the facility is the Black Card Spa, available to those who pay for a higher membership tier. The spa includes Hydro Massage Loungers, massage chairs, recovery loungers, and salon-grade tanning beds, offering members an opportunity to relax and recover post-workout.
Called to Jail
A 44-year-old man found himself back at Rappahannock Regional Jail after making a false report and harassing a jail officer with obscene phone calls. Initially, deputies responded to a call about a death and gunshot outside the jail, which turned out to be false. The suspect, located at a local motel, was arrested and charged with using obscene language and filing a false report.
Assault
– Marion Manor Nursing Home: A staff member assaulted another during a disagreement. The suspect was charged with assault and battery and held without bond.
– Shasta Place: A male suspect bit the victim during a verbal altercation. He was charged with assault and battery but released on personal recognizance.
DUI
Deputies discovered a car in a ditch on Courthouse Road. The driver admitted to drinking beer, with three empty cans found in her vehicle. She was charged with DUI, drinking while driving, and refusal, and held on a $3,000 bond.
Hit and Run
A vehicle struck a VDOT sign and two unoccupied trucks at EZ Auto Sales before the driver fled. Deputies identified the suspect using evidence left in the vehicle, and warrants for hit and run and property destruction were issued.
Several schools in our region have announced closures and delays for Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to icy road conditions and inclement weather. Here is the latest list of updates:
Spotsylvania County Public Schools
Spotsylvania County Public Schools are closed on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to icy road conditions.
Code 2: 12-month employees report two hours late as safety permits.
Essential personnel will report at specified times.
All school-sponsored activities and student externships are canceled.
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King George County Public Schools
King George County Public Schools will be closed on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to adverse road conditions and inclement weather.
Code 2: 12-month employees report at 10 a.m.
Liberal leave will be in effect.
We’ll update this post with additional school closures and delays as they are announced.
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:
