Wednesday night, Woodbridge District Supervisor Frank J. Principi hosted Virginia Secretary of Transportation, Aubrey Layne, and his senior leadership team at a town hall to discuss Better Transportation in the Woodbridge Magisterial District. “I believe this is the first time that we have had this many transportation leaders in one room in Prince William County”, said Supervisor Principi. Those who attended include:
- Aubrey Layne, Virginia Secretary of Transportation
- Grindly Johnson, Deputy Secretary of Transportation
- Charles Kilpatrick, Commissioner of Virginia Department of Transportation
- Jennifer Mitchell, Director of the Department of Rail and Public Transit
- Mike McGurk, Senior Corporate Relations Associate for Transurban
- Doug Allen, Chief Executive Officer for Virginia Railway Express
- Al Harf, Executive Director of Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission
- Dic Burke, Transportation and Land Use Director, Va. Department of Transportation
- Tom Blaser, Director of Prince William Department of Transportation
Within limited dollars available for transportation projects, Secretary Layne briefed the attendees on the new process for funding transportation projects moving forward. “All state projects will now go through a competitive process created with House Bill 2,” Said Secretary Layne. “It requires the Commonwealth Transportation Board to use five factors to rank projects: congestion mitigation, economic development, accessibility, safety and environmental quality.” Secretary Layne also spoke about the Route 1 widening project and Fast Ferry service on the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers.
Mike McGurk, spokesman for Transurban, answered many questions from the audience about the I-95 Express Lanes, set to open on December 14. There will be a two week trial period for commuters to test it out before having to pay the tolls beginning on December 29.
Tom Blaser announced that there is funding coming from NVTA to expand Neabsco Mills Road from Dale Boulevard down to Route 1. Al Harf of PRTC announced the looming fiscal cliff in regards to public bus service. As gas prices continue to decline, so does sales tax revenue collected by PRTC to fund local bus service. Doug Allen of VRE informed the attendees that his company is continuing to look for opportunities to increase the number of trains to expand service for commuters. Â
“Woodbridge residents are tired of sitting in traffic,” says Supervisor Principi. “We are very appreciative of Secretary Layne’s time and leadership on the many transportation projects coming out of the ground in Prince William County.” Supervisor Principi is committed to building a New Woodbridge, a smart growth community that attracts high-paying jobs, reduces traffic congestion, and preserves residential neighborhoods. There is over $1 billion of new public/private money invested in the Woodbridge Magisterial District. Better Transportation is a tenant of the vision of a New Woodbridge aimed at providing transit options to residents by investing in transportation infrastructure, expanding service, and completing sidewalks and trails.
For more information on New Woodbridge, please visit www.NewWoodbridge.org.
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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.
