Woodbridge, Va. –– Woodbridge Supervisor Frank J. Principi says he talking tough to developers who want to build more strip malls in his district.
Those types of developments don’t fit the mold of mixed-use town center developments, like Potomac Town Center, Belmont Bay and the much talked about but yet to be developed Harbor Station.
Principi says he’s turned down a new shopping center, a drive through fast food restaurant and a new car dealership because they don’t fit his vision of a new Woodbridge, one that is built around higher densities, mass transit and open access to the Occoquan River.
Of the shopping centers that do exist along Jefferson Davis Highway (U.S. 1), Marumsco Plaza has already refaced the façade of the center and nearby Featherstone Square owners plan to do the same, said Principi.
The U.S. 1 corridor has long been known for its blighted buildings, snarled traffic, and a place where day laborers gather to find work.
Principi has said he has little ability to relocate the day laborers to another location because they are gathered on private property.
When it comes to improved roads, county officials approved plans to widen U.S. 1 between Mary’s Way and the Occoquan River from four to six lanes, including a new elevated interchange near the Woodbridge Virginia Railway Express station.
To fit the vision, some buildings will have to come down.
“We have been successful at collaborating with business/property owners to renovate and/or tear down 32 buildings along Route 1, targeted neighborhood and commercial sweeps by teams of county and state inspectors, and organized two dozen litter and landscape planting events, including clean-ups in Neabsco Creek and Veterans Park,” said Principi.
County inspectors have issued notices to property owners about their under maintained properties, and some property owners have decided to go to court after being issued the violations, added Principi.
Recent Stories
If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, look no further than Aria Mia, a sweet little kitten currently up for adoption at Prince William County Animal Services. This brave little one arrived as a stray with injuries to both of her eyes. Aria Mia has already undergone surgery on one eye and will need follow-up treatment for the other. Despite her challenges, she’s shown incredible resilience and is ready to start a new chapter with a loving family.
Aria Mia has already proven that she’s not just a cat lover but a dog lover too! During her recovery at Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic, she showed how well she gets along with dogs. So, if you’re looking for a kitten who can coexist with your furry canine companions, Aria Mia might just be the perfect fit for you.
Come meet Aria Mia today and see for yourself what a sweet, loving companion she can be. She’s eager to find her forever home and start the next phase of her life in a caring and compassionate environment.
Deuntay Diggs, Chair of Stafford County’s Board of Supervisors, indicated Tuesday evening that he is prepared to take legal action should some of his colleagues continue to ask for an amendment to the Code of Performance that “adversely affects my career, my calling,” reports the FXBG Advance.Â
A report from the Federal Railroad Administration requested by Fredericksburg City Council and Mayor Kerry Devine on this past summer’s freight car derailment blames human error for the mishap, reports the FXBG Advance.Â
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is progressing toward finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Department of Economic Development.
The draft MOU aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both entities in promoting economic growth and business attraction within the county. However, concerns raised by some Board members suggest that the document may need further refinement before it can be adopted.
During a work session on January 28, 2025, Liz Barber, the county’s Director of Economic Development, presented the draft MOU, highlighting the extensive process that led to its creation. The document was developed over the past year, with input from both county administration and EDA members. Its goal is to establish clear guidelines and expectations for the EDA and the Department of Economic Development, particularly regarding the administrative processes, division of duties, and collaboration between the two bodies.
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.