Editor’s note: This story was updated to reflect the full scope of work on Conner Drive, to include a complete reconstruction of the street, including a connection with Euclid Drive
Manassas Park officials are questioning why a small street project’s cost has ballooned into millions of dollars.
City applied for funding for the project in 2011 when the whole thing was only estimated to cost $400,000. However, as the scope of the project has grown, so has the price tag.
By 2017 the cost grew to $1.4 million, which the city was able to cover due to applications for both state and local funds and were ready to go by 2018. But costs grew again after the Virginia Department of Transportation requested that Manassas Park revise their estimate “due to the rising costs of transportation-related construction in Northern Virginia.”
Between construction costs, the deteriorating condition of Conner Drive, wetlands mitigation, utility relocation costs, and increased scope for design and consultation, the project has ballooned to $2.6 million.
After the revelation of these factors, Manassas Park City Council member Donald Shuemaker expressed concern with the whole project. Many residents say they want the road repaved, and he’s had to explain to them how the city doesn’t have the money for repaving, nevermind the funds to extend the street.
“When we talk to residents this isn’t what they want, they want repaving of roads, and we tell them we don’t have more money to do that with. This is a million dollars, this is four times what we spend on repaving.
That’s not even the total cost of the project that the additional money we need to pump into it to get it to work with the way it’s structured but we tell people we don’t have any money. That’s actually a false statement, we do have money, we’re just not using it for that purpose.
That is one of the number one things I hear people say is that we need more repaving and this project has just ballooned even from the last time you presented it three years ago, now it’s a million dollars more.”
Shuemaker also said the project is sucking up transportation funds. Meanwhile, the city is money was focused on developing a new downtown area surrounding its city hall and Virginia Railway Express station, he said. Many city streets are in poor condition, he adds.
Shuemaker also commented on the wisdom of the extension with concern that Conner Drive could become a main thoroughfare not just for Manassas Park but for many residents of Prince William County, as drivers would use it as a cut-through to avoid police speed enforcement on nearby Manassas Drive.
City Manager Laszlo Palko said that the Connor Drive extension’s purpose was to ease traffic from Manassas Drive.
The governing body ultimately voted to allow the city manager to modify the agreement with the state’s Transporation agency. The costs of the Conner Drive extension would reflect the new total of $2.6 million. Manassas Park will pay $965,000 from its Northern Virginia Transportation Authority local fund balance to cover the cost.
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Looking for a fun and educational experience for kids? Check out Semillitas: Puerto Rican Bomba Kids. This event brings Puerto Rican bomba songs, dance, and music to Stafford every Sunday starting February 2, 2025, and running through June 1, 2025. Kids will enjoy learning rhythm, dance moves, and songs in an interactive environment.
The classes are designed for children up to 10, with a unique May 4 program featuring visiting artists from Puerto Rico!
Dates: Feb 2nd, Mar 2nd, Apr 6th, Jun 1st
Time: 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
Location: Virtuous Dance Center, 31 Utah Place #101, Stafford.
Cost: $10 for the first child, $7 for additional children per class, $32 for all four classes for the first child, and $24 for each additional child.
It’s free to submit your events to Potomac Local! Simply visit this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Just fill out the details, and we’ll feature your event!
Authorities have released additional details regarding the homicide of 61-year-old Charles Childress and 59-year-old Kimberly Newcomb, whose bodies were discovered on January 25, 2025, at a residence in the 10800 block of Heatherwood Drive.
The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office initially responded to the home after a concerned friend discovered a deceased female and called 911. Upon arrival, deputies found both victims dead at the scene. Investigators have now confirmed that both victims died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Following the autopsy, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as gunshot wounds. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) continue their investigation and work around the clock to process evidence and interview potential witnesses. While the relationship between the victims remains under investigation, it has been confirmed that they were living together at the residence.
Crews from Stafford Utilities are repairing a water main break on Route 1 southbound near Centreport Parkway. The far-right and center lanes of the highway will be closed to traffic as repairs are made, though the far left lane remains open. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution through the area.
Stafford County spokeswoman Shannon Howell said one customer remains without water due to the break. The cause of the water main rupture is still under investigation.
The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) Operations Board meeting on January 17, 2025, saw several significant discussions aimed at enhancing service and infrastructure across the transit system. Among the most talked-about topics were the introduction of Saturday service, a crucial funding agreement for the Manassas Line, solutions for parking challenges at stations, and major infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of Seminary Yard and the Long Bridge upgrades. Each of these initiatives is designed to improve the commuter experience and accommodate a growing ridership base.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the ongoing development of Saturday service, a long-awaited addition that has been approved and included in VRE’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget. Set to feature three round-trip trains on the Fredericksburg and Manassas lines, this service is expected to cater to weekend commuters, offering a much-needed alternative to the crowded roads in the region.
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.
