When Potomac Local ran this story about the Dale City K Mart closing, it generated a bittersweet moment for me.
For as long as I can remember, I have complained about the entrance to Dale City. I’ve always wanted our community to look beautiful and inviting. I’ve long hoped it would become a place to drive to, not through.
That ancient K-Mart has been an eyesore in the 30 years I’ve lived here. The huge, cracked asphalt parking lot with the newspaper dispensers, clothing receptacles and litter is an embarrassment to the Neabsco District.
Don’t think I haven’t tried through the years to help improve the appearance. I once attempted to organize a cleanup in the wooded area adjacent to K-Mart, but was told it was “dangerous for volunteers because of the homeless population” and that the land owner would take care of it. Since that time, I have repeatedly made complaints to Neighborhood Services inside the offices of Prince William County Government. My complaints would be addressed, but the trash and litter always returns.
So, I’m excited to see the K-Mart is closing, but I know it wasn’t just the store that caused a problem. The plight of the homeless population encamped at that location is a big, contributing factor. What will happen to those people in the woods once redevelopment begins? Our plans for the future simply must address the current reality.
Neabsco residents need to get involved with the “What’s next?” Prince William County staff should soon be hosting visioning sessions to get input from residents regarding renovation in that area near the exit off Interstate 95. What do you want to see happen in the Neabsco District?
Neabsco Action Alliance was formed to protect and promote the best interests of the residents of the Neabsco District and Dale City in particular. Now that I am leaving the area, I am still hoping someone will assume the NAA leadership. We have great mentorship and partnership in place. We’ve educated ourselves in how the county operates and learned what is possible for Dale City residents.
The K-Mart property is owned by a Hylton company as is all the surrounding land, except the land that has been donated to the Americans in Wartime Museum (NMAW) The Hylton family built Dale City and has made enormous contributions to our community. Now it’s time the Hylton corporations work with Prince William County and Neabsco residents to create a new beginning for Dale City.
What do you say Neabsco residents? Are you tired of coming off the 95 exit and looking right to Stonebridge and left to K-Mart? Do you want something to be proud of? It’s up to you. If you want the same old thing, just stay home and complain, but if you have vision, if you can imagine a better future, now is the time to start rallying!
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