Prince William County’s Department of Economic Development announced a year of record achievement in 2020 with the completion of 40 projects, expected to add $2.4 billion in capital investment and 1,531 new jobs to the county.
With 29 new business attractions, eight expansions of existing businesses, and three business retentions, 99% of the new jobs will be in a range of industry sectors targeted by the county, including life sciences and biotechnology, IT, data centers, advanced manufacturing, federal contracting and distribution.
In rapid response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the department shifted focus to economic stabilization and recovery while simultaneously executing its planned work program.
The county established a multipronged framework of grant and incentive programs to provide much-needed relief to its business community, particularly its small businesses and displaced workers. The Prince William Board of County Supervisors appropriated $16 million of CARES Act and economic development funds to establish the following programs:
- Capital Investment and Innovation Grant – provided funding up to $200,000 per business for 127 businesses that needed to make physical improvements to adhere to health and safety guidelines to operate safely or to make capital investments in innovative business models.
- Small Business Relief Micro-Grant – provided grant assistance totaling $4.7 million to 640 businesses that experienced a loss in revenues. Grants up to $50,000 were provided to qualified businesses.
- ELEVATE – provided no-cost employment assistance to 188 residents and 59 businesses in collaboration with Virginia Career Works.
- Construction and Renovation Permit Rebate – provided 13 businesses with assistance to begin new construction projects by offering rebates of up to $2,000 for permitting fees.
- Small Business Technical Assistance – provided business counseling to 57 small businesses that needed one-on-one technical assistance. Additionally, the county partnered with the Mason Small Business
- Development Center to provide enhanced technical services up to $10,000 per business in digital marketing and e-commerce, financial planning, and IT services, to ensure business viability.
IGNITE Grant – provided grants up to $50,000 for businesses and entrepreneurs who have a start-up idea or new business. - FireUp Business Mentoring and Coaching – supported eligible small businesses by pairing them up with coaches and giving them one-on-one access to expertise in business strategy, marketing, and finance.
- Be Safe, Work Safe – provided a webinar series for businesses to provide them with guidelines based on best practices for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and keeping their business open.
“We are forever grateful for the assistance and guidance we received from Prince William County during this time of crisis,” said Cathy Madigan, co-owner of Madigan’s Waterfront. “Not only were we able to receive much-needed funding to continue operations and keep our employees, but the support and counseling we received from the Department of Economic Development made all the difference and has further reinforced why chose to locate in Prince William County.”
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In this Potomac Local News Podcast episode, we sit down with Jeff Joyner, President of Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, to explore the hospital’s incredible 50+ year journey – the past 15 years of which have been under Sentara’s watch.
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.
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.
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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:
