Those who are opposed to taller buildings spoke out at Monday’s Manassas City Council meeting.
A public hearing for the city’s 2040 compressive plan was advertised, and it what drew residents to come to speak on the matter. The city plan calls for a more urban downtown, with more apartments centered around the city’s train station used by Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express.
It also calls for more pedestrian paths, lanes on city streets for bicyclists, and more transit bus service.
Many residents who are opposed to such growth point to the 5-story Messenger Place apartment building, a structure built last year to house new homes and ground-level retail stores. It replaces the old Manassas Journal Messenger newspaper building.
“I like bikes. I had to see us use congested streets to put bike lanes. There’s got to be another way,” said Bill Briscoe, of Bristow.
“I’m really worried about any high-density housing that adds more parking, tears into green space, and is problematic to our sewers,” said Lynn Forkell Green, a city resident.
City Mayor Hal Parrish recused himself from the discussion. He’s a business owner that owns the Manassas Ice and Fuel Company in Downtown Manassas.
The City Council took no vote to approve the 2040 plan. Instead, it retreated into a closed session following the public hearing.
Recent Stories
Fish Window Cleaning owner Lona Bryan and her crew volunteered to clean the windows at the Boys & Girls Club of Manassas during National Random Acts of Kindness Week, giving back to the organization that first introduced her children to organized sports.
The Manassas City Public School Board (MCPS) has met to form an advisory committee dedicated to immigrant and refugee students in the district.
Triune Entertainment is set to open its production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on February 21, 2025, at the Journey Theater in Vint Hill, an event for audiences of all ages.
Expect lane closures on I-95 Southbound at Exit 126 nightly 7 p.m.-10 a.m. for ramp widening. Route 1 in Stafford will have right lane closures weekdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for fiber installation. Berea Church Road remains closed for construction.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
