WOODBRIDGE – (Press Release) OmniRide will test a new style of commuter bus for several weeks in September, continuing to research what vehicles should be included in its fleet of the future.
The new bus that’s being tested features two exits – one at the front and one in the middle – so passengers can disembark quickly. Passengers will continue to enter at the front door where the fare box is located.
The second exit door also features a wheelchair ramp that leads to a low-floor area that accommodates two wheelchairs and a few seats. That design is a big change from OmniRide’s current Express bus fleet that lifts wheelchairs several feet up and into the bus.
The test bus is manufactured by Motor Coach Industries (MCI) and has 53 seats versus 57 on the MCI buses that comprise most of OmniRide’s current fleet.
“OmniRide Express buses are typically in service for an average of 16 years, so we want to be sure we think about our community’s future needs when purchasing new buses,” said Prince William County Supervisor Ruth Anderson, who also serves as chair of the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC), which oversees OmniRide.
During the evaluation period, the test bus will operate on a variety of OmniRide routes. Passengers will pay regular fares and will be asked to fill out a brief survey about the bus, its features and performance. OmniRide will consider riders’ comments in addition to feedback from bus operators and mechanics as decisions are made in the next year or so about future bus purchases.
In April 2019, OmniRide tested an 81-seat double deck bus on various routes for about 10 days and received more than 300 comments from passengers who had the opportunity to ride. Overall passengers strongly favored the addition of double deck buses to OmniRide’s fleet. In fact, only 3% said they wouldn’t recommend purchasing double deck buses, while 79% favored the purchase, and 18% were undecided or had no opinion.
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While the council is promoting data centers as an opportunity for economic growth, concerns from local activists and experts highlight potential challenges, including environmental and community impacts.
A recent report by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) warns that if data center development in Virginia continues without constraints, the state’s energy demands could triple. The report emphasizes that meeting these increased demands would necessitate the construction of additional energy facilities, including renewable sources like solar and offshore wind, as well as natural gas plants. Specifically, JLARC estimates that a new natural gas plant would need to be built approximately every one and a half years to keep pace with the energy consumption of unconstrained data center growth.
The Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) announced that all its locations will remain closed today, Tuesday, January 7, 2025, citing “continued dangerous road conditions.”
This decision comes after the library had initially planned to open at 1 p.m. on Tuesday following a delayed start due to inclement weather. The announcement was first made on Monday, January 6, in response to winter storms that have left roads icy and treacherous throughout the region.
Residents are encouraged to check CRRL’s website and social media channels for updates regarding reopening plans. Library services, including online resources and virtual assistance, remain available for those looking to access books, learning tools, or other materials remotely.
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:
