ALEXANDRIA — As six Metrorail stations south of National Airport are now shut down this summer, the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) will be a convenient alternative for many commuters.
VRE offers service at two stations, Franconia-Springfield and Alexandria, that are a short walk from the closed Franconia-Springfield and King St-Old Town Metrorail stations. VRE trains run northbound in the morning and southbound in the evening with stops at Crystal City in Virginia, and L’Enfant and Union Station in Washington, D.C.
VRE trains arrive at Union Station each weekday between 6:24 a.m. and 9:17 a.m. and depart Union Station between 12:55 p.m. and 7:05 p.m.
All trains stop at the Alexandria station, but only trains on the Fredericksburg Line stop at Franconia-Springfield, where parking at the Metro garage will be free during the station closure. Passengers can see which trains have the most available seating by visiting VRE’s train utilization trends page.
Determining fares and purchasing a ticket can be done through VRE Mobile. The app allows riders to select from several fare products, some of which offer discounts. VRE Mobile accepts credit cards and SmartBenefits. Tickets also may be purchased through fare vending machines on VRE station platforms. VRE’s fare payment system does not support Metro’s SmarTrip card.
To free up capacity on trains for new riders, the cost of a single-ride Amtrak Step-Up ticket has been temporarily lowered from $8 to $4. The Step-Up ticket gives passengers with multi-ride VRE passes (Monthly, 5-Day, 10-Ride, and Transit Link Card) the option to use any of 12 Amtrak trains listed on the current VRE schedule.
Free shuttles in Prince William County will carry riders to VRE’s Rippon and Woodbridge stations during the Metrorail shutdown. The OmniRide shuttles will begin operating on Tuesday, May 28 and continue until Metro reopens the six Blue and Yellow line stations in September. The Dale City shuttle will connect the commuter lot at Minnieville Road and Gemini Way with the Rippon station, while the Lake Ridge shuttle will connect the commuter lot at Old Bridge and Minnieville roads with the Woodbridge station.
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
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.
