Woodbridge, Va. –– Those who have driven Prince William Parkway outside the McCoart Building during the past year knows road construction has lead to a few headaches. But now, orange cones are being removed from the $13.5 million project to widen the highway from four to six lanes between Old Bridge and Hoadly roads and new lanes opening up.
Drivers will also note a signal light that doesn’t quite match up with others in the area, at the parkway and Black Forest Lane. Where customers of the nearby Queen’s Gambit restaurant and bar enter and exit the road to get to their favorite watering hole, flashing signal lights have been erected there.
More to the story: VDOT earlier this month in North Stafford installed one of seven special flashing signals in the state used to better get driver’s attention.
Drivers on the parkway see flashing yellow while drivers waiting to enter the parkway see flashing red lights. Officials say it’s an acceptable signal –– for now.
“[The Virginia Department of Transportation] has determined that a full traffic signal at this location is not warranted at this time, although it is a proffered signal. VDOT has agreed to have the flashers put in an acceptable devise to control traffic at this intersection, while development of the property continues,” said Prince William County spokesman Jason Grant.
As the property across the parkway from the restaurant continues to develop (it already includes two office buildings and new homes, a perfect spot to watch Saturday night fireworks from Pfitzner Stadium where the Potomac Nationals play) VDOT will then install a full traffic signal, added Grant.
$9.1 million of the overall funds for the widening project came from federal stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
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Manassas City Council will discuss a proposed tax incentive on Monday, February 10, 2025, to support Micron Technology Inc.’s planned $2 billion expansion. The deal would extend the company’s favorable semiconductor equipment tax rate through 2035, saving Micron millions annually. The expansion, backed by $275 million from the U.S. Department of Commerce, is expected to create over 400 manufacturing jobs. City officials tout the investment as a boost for local economic growth, while residents and businesses will weigh the long-term benefits.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the region, warning of four to six inches of snow, with higher totals possible. Snow will begin Tuesday afternoon, intensify Tuesday evening into overnight, and could transition to a wintry mix Wednesday morning. The storm will create hazardous travel conditions, impacting Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Another system this weekend could bring heavy rain or a wintry mix, increasing flooding risks. Think you can predict the snowfall? Comment your guess for a chance to win a prize.
A townhouse fire in Woodbridge displaced a family of five late Saturday afternoon after flames spread from the rear of the home into the attic.
Fire and rescue units responded at approximately 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, to the 3400 block of Aviary Way, near Lake Ridge Elementary School, after a resident reported seeing smoke coming from the back of their home. When crews arrived, they found smoke and flames moving up the rear of the house and into the attic. Firefighters quickly contained and extinguished the fire.
No injuries were reported, but the home sustained moderate damage. The Building Official declared the residence unsafe for occupancy. The American Red Cross assists two adults and three children displaced by the fire.
A suspect in a bank robbery on Route 3 was arrested thanks to a tip leading authorities to a Fredericksburg hotel.
Dawson
According to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, the robbery occurred at Truist Bank, located at 3600 Plank Road, next to Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11:15 a.m. A bank employee called 911 to report that a man had entered the bank and demanded money. The employee complied with the demands, and the suspect fled with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect did not display a weapon during the robbery, and no injuries were reported. Witnesses at the scene provided law enforcement with a description of the suspect’s getaway vehicle, which was identified as a copper/orange pickup truck.
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.
