Haymarket Town Council Reviews Islamic Center Proposal, Focuses on Parking and Safety

The Haymarket Town Council revisited the proposed Islamic Center at 14600 Washington Street during a work session on March 31, continuing its review of a special use permit (SUP) application submitted by Mohammed Kasim Gul. The application seeks approval to establish a permanent place of worship in the old Pace West school building for the local Muslim community.

It would share the space with federal contractor QBE.

The council members and town staff discussed key concerns raised at an earlier March 3 public hearing, including occupancy limits, parking availability, traffic circulation, and pedestrian safety.

The town staff presented updated findings following site visits and discussions with the applicant and property owner. Based on a walkthrough conducted earlier that day, a parking plan estimates that approximately 198 to 201 marked spaces could be striped on existing pavement.

However, staff noted that some of those spaces, particularly those in areas with tight drive aisles or those that are blocked by trailers, may not be usable. The landlord has not restriped the lot since taking ownership in 2013, and the faded lines have led to confusion about the current parking capacity.

In addition to parking, council members discussed the building’s occupancy classification. According to guidance from the Prince William County Building Department, occupancy for assembly use over 49 people would require additional safety upgrades, including more exit doors and possibly a fire alarm or sprinkler system. Final occupancy limits would depend on a review of the tenant’s layout and code compliance.

The lack of a current site plan was a significant point of debate. The property owner previously submitted a site plan with proposed improvements, but it was never bonded and has since expired. Several council members expressed concern over approving an SUP without an updated and accurate site plan showing existing conditions and proposed changes, including marked parking spaces and loading zones.

Also under review was the possibility of requiring police presence during high-traffic times, such as Friday prayers and Ramadan. Staff noted that other religious institutions on Washington Street already rely on police assistance for traffic management during peak hours.

The applicant confirmed the center may also host occasional youth events, typically on weekends and with limited attendance. A detailed prayer schedule with projected start times varying throughout the year was submitted.

While the proposal has drawn strong community support—more than 70 emails were submitted in favor, and dozens of residents spoke during the March 3 public hearing—concerns remain over its potential impact on parking, traffic congestion on Route 55, and neighboring businesses.

The proposed Islamic Center would serve residents who currently travel 20 to 30 minutes to the nearest mosque, providing a closer, dedicated space for daily and Friday prayers.

The council is expected to revisit the application at its next meeting on April 7, where a vote could take place.

Publisher’s note: We removed an earlier story with incorrect information about the March 31, 2025, Haymarket Town Council meeting.