Manassas Long Range Planning Division has received two prestigious awards honoring its planning and public engagement.
The American Planning Association Virginia Commonwealth Plan of the Year Award honors the Virginian planning document that demonstrates outstanding planning processes, vision, implementation strategies, and innovative approaches.
This award was given to Manassas for the city’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Award judges stated that the 2040 Manassas Comprehensive Plan looks ahead to the year 2040, and sketches out both big-picture issues and neighborhood-specific plans that guide future land use, development, recreation, preservation, and transportation policy decisions.
The second award, the Old Dominion Innovative Approaches Award, honors the Community Conversations engagement initiative that was essential in guiding the 2040 Plan, and recognizes pioneering planning efforts including innovative planning processes, plans, programs, initiatives, or site developments that will have real results.
“We had a great team leading this process,” said City Manager W. Patrick Pate. “I am not surprised that they were honored with these awards, but am honored that the Virginia APA has recognized their efforts in this manner. The Comprehensive Plan will benefit the City of Manassas well into the future as we continue to promote the historic and modern attributes of our community.”
In the first phase of Community Conversations in 2017, more than 400 citizens responded to questions at various pop-up sites, often posting colorful post-it notes to respond to questions on posters.
In phase two in 2018, more than 250 people attended small group discussions at venues across Manassas, while 200 answered questions at pop-up events, and 500 visited an interactive website.
The input gathered helped define a community-driven vision for the city’s strategic priorities and for the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
The City’s Planning Commission created a Comprehensive Plan Update subcommittee chaired by Elaine Trautwein to help staff craft the 2040 Plan, which is required to be reviewed every 5 years.
The Commission also hosted a series of Community Conversation discussions with citizens.
RHI, a landscape architecture, planning, and urban design firm, also helped to facilitate Community Conversation small group discussions.
The 2040 Comprehensive Plan was adopted by the Manassas City Council in February and may be viewed online.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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:
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