Prince William County Sees Significant Republican Gains in 2024 Election
Republicans made measurable gains in Prince William County during the 2024 election, with Donald Trump increasing his raw vote total by more than 8,500 compared to 2020. While Democrats still carried the county, their margin of victory shrank, signaling a possible shift in the suburban political landscape. (Cardinal News) Read more.
Spotsylvania Planning Commission Recommends By-Right Data Centers in Industrial Zones
The Spotsylvania County Planning Commission has recommended allowing data centers to be developed by-right in industrial zones, streamlining the approval process for such facilities. This move aims to attract data center investments to the county by reducing regulatory hurdles. (Fredericksburg Free Press) Read more.
Prince William Realtor and Pilot Gives Back Through Compassion Airlift
A Prince William County realtor and pilot is making a difference through Compassion Airlift, an initiative providing free air transport for patients in need of specialized medical care. The program helps connect individuals with life-saving treatments by removing transportation barriers. (InsideNoVa) Read more.
Stafford Supervisors Reject Proposal to Make Data Centers Conditional Use in Industrial Zones
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors narrowly voted against an amendment that would have required data centers to obtain special use permits in heavy industrial (M2) zoning districts. Opponents of the amendment argued that maintaining data centers as a by-right use is essential for economic development and infrastructure improvements, while supporters believed the change would provide additional protections for nearby residents. (FXBG Advance) Read more.
FAA Permanently Restricts Helicopter Traffic Near Reagan Airport
The FAA has permanently restricted nonessential helicopter operations around Reagan National Airport following January’s mid-air collision that killed 67 people. The new rules prohibit mixed helicopter and fixed-wing traffic, close Route 4 along the Potomac, and limit emergency helicopter flights. (The Center Square) Read more.
Prince William’s Data Center Tax Revenue Jumps Nearly 70% to $280 Million
Prince William County’s data center tax revenue surged by nearly 70% in 2024, reaching $280 million, up from $165 million in 2023. This increase highlights the county’s expanding data center industry and its growing impact on local tax income. (InsideNoVa) Read more.
Long-Awaited Barnes & Noble Opens in Gainesville
Barnes & Noble has officially opened its long-awaited bookstore in Gainesville at The Shops at Stonewall. The grand opening featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a book signing by local author Audrey Ingram. (Prince William Times) Read more.
Stafford Supervisors Reject Stricter Zoning for Data Centers
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors narrowly voted against a proposed zoning amendment that would have required data centers in heavy industrial zones to obtain conditional-use permits. Opponents argued the measure could deter economic growth and discourage investment in the county. (Fredericksburg Free Press) Read more.
Prince William County School Board Approves FY 2026 Budget
The Prince William County School Board has approved a $1.89 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2026, including a historic two-year wage agreement for staff. The budget also funds new special education teacher assistants, behavior specialists, and graduation coaches to enhance student support services. (Prince William County Public Schools) Read more.
Manassas Park K-9 Unit Welcomes Newest Member, Knox – The Manassas Park Police Department has introduced Knox, a Belgian Malinois, as the newest addition to its K-9 unit. Trained in narcotics detection and suspect apprehension, Knox will work alongside Officer Carlos Martinez to enhance public safety efforts in the city. (InsideNoVa)
PWCS Expands Access to College Credit Courses – Prince William County Schools (PWCS) is increasing opportunities for high school students to earn college credits through dual enrollment and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The initiative aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable by allowing students to earn credits while still in high school. (PWCS)
Stafford County Public Schools Open Kindergarten Registration – Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) have announced that kindergarten registration for the 2025-2026 school year will open on March 17. Parents and guardians are encouraged to enroll children who will turn five on or before September 30, 2025, to ensure a smooth start to their educational journey. (SCPS)
Prince William Water Schedules Traffic-Impacting Maintenance on Richmond Highway – Prince William Water has announced maintenance work near 14132 Richmond Highway on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, starting at approximately 8 a.m. The middle lane of the southbound Richmond Highway will be closed during this time; motorists are advised to follow all traffic control devices. (Prince William Water)
Prince William Water Honors Student Artists at 2025 Water Art Invitational – On March 5, 2025, Prince William Water recognized 26 Prince William County high school students during its annual Water Art Invitational Award Ceremony at Unity Reed High School. The event showcased 190 entries across painting, drawing, photography, and computer graphics, all reflecting the theme “Your Water. Your Environment.” (Prince William Water)
Northern Virginia Has More Data Centers Than Anywhere Else in the World—Here’s Its Advice for Southside
Northern Virginia has established itself as the global leader in data centers, boasting more facilities than any other region worldwide. As Southside Virginia considers expanding its own data center footprint, industry experts and policymakers in Northern Virginia are offering insights on managing growth, balancing economic benefits with environmental concerns, and ensuring community engagement in the process. Cardinal News
Finn Announces Run for Full Ward 3 City Council Term
Jason Finn, who was appointed to fill a vacant Ward 3 seat on the Fredericksburg City Council last year, has officially announced his candidacy for a full term. Finn aims to continue focusing on community development, infrastructure improvements, and public engagement as key priorities in his campaign. Fredericksburg Free Press
Developers Propose More Than 3,000 Homes Along Vint Hill Road
A major residential development proposal could bring more than 3,000 new homes to an area along Vint Hill Road in Prince William County. The proposal is expected to impact local infrastructure, schools, and traffic patterns, sparking discussions among county officials and residents. Prince William Times
Investigation underway after soldier dies at Fort Campbell – Officials at Fort Campbell, a major U.S. Army installation on the Kentucky-Tennessee border, are investigating the death of a soldier. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear as authorities work to determine what happened. WPSD Local 6
ICE arrests 214 in Virginia, including gang members and convicted murderer – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and law enforcement partners arrested 214 individuals in Virginia during a targeted operation between March 1 and 13. The operation focused on transnational organized crime and gang-related offenders, including individuals allegedly tied to MS-13 and 18th Street gangs. Among those arrested was a Jamaican national previously convicted of second-degree murder and firearm-related charges. The Center Square
Osbourn Park finishes ‘crazy week’ with a state championship – After overcoming multiple obstacles, including weather-related delays and a grueling playoff schedule, Osbourn Park High School’s girls’ basketball team secured the state championship title. The victory caps an unforgettable season for the Yellow Jackets. InsideNova
Rep. Eugene Vindman, a Virginia Democrat and former whistleblower, criticized President Donald Trump’s second term, calling its first 45 days an “abomination” during an MSNBC appearance. In response, the White House issued a scathing statement, dismissing Vindman’s remarks as “moronic” and accusing him of having “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” (The Center Square)
VA Facility Opens with Questions about Staffing
A new 470,000-square-foot Veterans Administration medical facility in Spotsylvania County, designed to serve over 40,000 veterans, opened with significant staffing shortages. Due to a federal hiring freeze enacted by President Trump’s executive order in January, between 70% and 80% of positions—excluding doctors and nurses—remain unfilled, raising concerns about the quality of care available to veterans in the region. (FXBG Advance)
Iconic Paperboy Statue ‘Lance’ Returns to Downtown Fredericksburg
The bronze statue “Lance,” symbolizing the historic role of newsboys and once stationed outside The Free Lance–Star newspaper’s downtown office, has been relocated back to its original area near The Publisher Hotel. After the newspaper’s move in 2016, Lance remained at the Central Park location until Mary Washington Healthcare facilitated its return, underscoring the community’s dedication to preserving local history.(Fredericksburg Free Press)
Stafford County Deputy Assists Mama Pig in Unusual Predicament
A Stafford County Sheriff’s deputy responded to a call about a pig in distress and found a pregnant sow stuck in a muddy ditch. The deputy collaborated with local animal control to safely rescue the pig, showcasing the department’s commitment to all community members, human and animal alike. (InsideNoVa)
Illegal Migrant Accused of Attempting to Breach Quantico Base Arrested Again by ICE
A Venezuelan migrant, previously arrested for trying to breach Marine Corps Base Quantico, has been detained once more by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The suspect, who was initially released after his first arrest, was taken into custody in New York after concerns about his potential security threat resurfaced. (New York Post)
Prince William Supervisors Approve Controversial Transformation Temple Project
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has given the green light to the Transformation Temple project in Mid-County despite strong community opposition. Critics raised concerns about traffic congestion and environmental impact, but supporters argued the development would provide valuable community and worship space. (InsideNoVa)
Local Military Bases Ordered to Remove DEI-Related Social Media Content
Public affairs offices at Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, Marine Corps Base Quantico, and Fort Walker have begun removing online content related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This action aligns with a recent Department of Defense order mandating the elimination of materials promoting DEI, including content associated with cultural awareness months such as Black History Month and Women’s History Month. (Fredericksburg Free Press)
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Prison Sentence Commuted for Former FCPD Officer Who Fatally Shot Man in Tysons
Former Fairfax County police officer Wesley Shifflett, who fatally shot Timothy Johnson outside Tysons Corner Center in 2023, has had his prison sentence commuted by Governor Glenn Youngkin. Shifflett was convicted of reckless discharge of a firearm and sentenced to three years, but Youngkin deemed the punishment excessive. FFXnow
Manassas Special Education Teacher Honored with Mary V. Bicouvaris Teacher of the Year Award
Manassas City Public Schools has recognized Sarah Johnson, a special education teacher at Baldwin Intermediate School, with the prestigious Mary V. Bicouvaris Teacher of the Year Award. Johnson’s dedication to her students and innovative teaching methods have significantly enhanced the learning experience for her special education students. InsideNoVa
Virginia General Assembly Approves Budget with Tax Rebates and State Employee Bonuses
Virginia lawmakers have passed a two-year budget that includes $200 tax rebates for individuals, pay raises for state employees, and bonuses for teachers. Legislators warn that potential federal job cuts could impact the state’s economy, prompting plans for a special session later this year. The Center Square
Manassas Park School Board Seeking Applicants for Open Seats
The Manassas Park School Board has two terms expiring June 30, 2025, and one term expiring June 30, 2026, due to a resignation. Residents interested in applying for these positions must be registered voters and should submit their resume to Lana Conner at 100 Park Central Plaza or via email at [email protected] by 4 p.m. on April 1, 2025. More details are available on the Manassas Park City Schools website.
Dr. Babur Lateef Wins Mount Vernon Straw Poll
Prince William County School Board Chairman At-Large Dr. Babur Lateef won the Mount Vernon Democrats’ Mardi Gras Straw Poll for Attorney General and Lieutenant Governor candidates. The event featured key Democratic contenders ahead of Virginia’s June primary. Read more.
Haymarket Islamic Center Seeks Special Use Permit
The Haymarket Islamic Center has applied for a Special Use Permit (SUP#2024-002) to establish a permanent worship space at 14600 Washington Street. The Haymarket Town Council will review the proposal and public concerns over parking and traffic impacts at its March 3, 2025, meeting. Read more.
Prince William Supervisors to Vote on Davis Ford Road Church Proposal
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors will decide on a 22,792-square-foot church proposal for Davis Ford Road at 7 p.m. on March 4, 2025. The Planning Commission recommended denial due to traffic concerns and incompatibility with the area. Read more.
Trump Nominates Hung Cao as Navy Under Secretary
Donald Trump has nominated Hung Cao, a retired Navy special operations officer, as Under Secretary of the Navy if he wins the presidency in November. Cao, a Republican U.S. Senate candidate, previously ran for Virginia’s 10th Congressional District in 2022. Read more.
Detectives Investigate Fatal Crash in Centreville
A 64-year-old man died after his Honda Accord collided with a Tesla Model 3 at Route 28 and Machen Road in Centreville on Feb. 27, 2025. Fairfax County Police do not believe speed or alcohol were factors and are seeking witnesses. Read more.
Gloria Jean Johnson Celebrates 60+ Years at Horne’s Restaurant
Gloria Jean Johnson has worked at Horne’s Restaurant in Port Royal since 1961, serving generations of travelers and locals. The historic diner, once a nationwide chain, remains a beloved stop on Route 301. Read more.
Fredericksburg to Hold Public Safety Training on March 7
The City of Fredericksburg and Fredericksburg City Public Schools will conduct a joint emergency response training at multiple schools on March 7, 2025. Residents may notice increased police and emergency personnel activity, but officials confirm it is only a drill. Read more.
Fredericksburg to Release Records on Ward 3 Appointment
The Fredericksburg City Council will release interview questions and notes regarding the Ward 3 appointment after a FOIA petition from resident Guy Gormley. A judge ruled the closed session was legal, but more records were identified. Read more.
Virginia General Assembly Approves $1.2 Billion for Education
The Virginia General Assembly passed a $1.2 billion education investment for 2025, including a 5% teacher pay raise and $400 million for school renovations. Additional funding will support early childhood education and lower public college tuition costs. Read more.
