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 significant infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of Seminary Yard and the Long Bridge upgrades. These initiatives are designed to improve the commuter experience and accommodate a growing ridership base.
Saturday Service: A Long-Awaited Step Forward
One of the highlights of the meeting was the ongoing development of Saturday service, a long-awaited addition 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 highways in the region.
Although the exact start date and routes for the Saturday service remain under wraps, VRE Operations Board members expressed excitement about the initiative. However, some voiced concerns about the impact of shifting commuter patterns, particularly in light of the ongoing rise in remote and hybrid work arrangements. Despite these uncertainties, there is optimism that the Saturday service will meet demand and contribute to the long-term growth of VRE, expanding its service offerings and supporting regional ridership.
A Milestone for the Manassas Line
In addition to the upcoming Saturday service, the VRE board approved a significant $155 million funding agreement to acquire the Manassas Line. This agreement is a critical step in VRE’s plan to substantially improve the line’s infrastructure over the next five years. With an emphasis on enhancing operational efficiency and improving the passenger experience, the funds will support the upgrade of stations, the relocation of midday storage to Alexandria’s Seminary Yard, and the separation of freight and passenger train traffic, ultimately reducing congestion and increasing efficiency.
According to officials, the commitment to acquiring the Manassas Line is pivotal for VRE, solidifying its control over operations.
Addressing Parking Challenges
As VRE works to expand service and accommodate more passengers, parking challenges have become a central concern. The board approved a lease extension for parking at Rippon Station in Woodbridge, one of the most affected by high demand. The lack of parking spaces during peak hours has been a significant issue for commuters, and the extension will allow VRE more time to explore permanent solutions.
Among the strategies being considered to address parking shortages are acquiring additional land for new parking structures, expanding current parking lots, and partnerships with private developers and local governments to create multi-use spaces that combine parking with retail or residential developments.
Key Infrastructure Projects: Seminary Yard and Long Bridge
In addition to expanding services, VRE is pushing forward with critical infrastructure projects that will improve the overall reliability and capacity of the rail network. The redevelopment of Seminary Yard, a freight rail yard in Alexandria, is a key project that will be transformed to accommodate passenger trains. This project will help VRE store and maintain its growing fleet more efficiently, with a phased approach aiming to start utilizing parts of the yard by the end of 2025.
Another key project is the Long Bridge upgrades, which involve both the Long Bridge North and South initiatives. These upgrades aim to separate freight and passenger rail traffic, reducing congestion and improving service reliability. The completion of these projects will pave the way for an expanded rail system that can better serve both commuter and freight needs, ensuring that the region’s rail infrastructure can keep pace with growing demand.
The Woodbridge District invites residents to join a Community Update Town Hall Meeting hosted by Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin. This virtual event offers an opportunity for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives in the community.
Details of the Town Hall:
- Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Residents can participate in the meeting by joining the Zoom session.
Supervisor Franklin will provide important updates and address concerns relevant to the Woodbridge District. Don’t miss this chance to engage with local leadership and stay informed about what’s happening in your community.
Fire investigators are still searching for answers in two recent fires that caused significant damage in Fredericksburg and Woodbridge.
In Fredericksburg, the December 5 blaze at Eagle Village Shopping Center began in the warehouse of Play It Again Sports and quickly spread, destroying multiple businesses. Despite extensive efforts, investigators have been unable to determine the fire’s cause.
Updated: The Fire Marshal will continue to speak to witnesses should anyone have further information. Camera footage taken shortly after the fire was discovered has been reviewed, but no security cameras were available to assist the investigation. Officials also stated that there is no evidence of unauthorized entry into the building prior to the fire’s discovery, according to a city spokeswoman.
Meanwhile, a January 21 townhouse fire in Woodbridge displaced two residents after unattended cooking sparked flames. Working smoke detectors alerted the occupants, allowing them to escape safely. Both incidents highlight the importance of fire safety and preparedness as investigations into the causes continue.
Meanwhile, in Woodbridge
In the early hours of January 21, 2025, a townhouse fire displaced two residents in the 2800 block of Gloucester Court. Firefighters arrived just after 2:44 a.m. to find smoke showing from the residence.
The fire began when one of the occupants, who had been cooking in the kitchen, fell asleep. Fortunately, functioning smoke detectors alerted the resident, who quickly assisted another adult out of the home. Both individuals were treated for non-life-threatening injuries and transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.
The fire was quickly extinguished, but the building was deemed unsafe to occupy by the Building Official, displacing the two residents. It is unclear whether the Red Cross is providing assistance.
The Fire Marshal’s Office determined that unattended cooking was the cause of the fire. Officials emphasized the importance of working smoke detectors, crediting them with preventing a potentially fatal outcome.
These two incidents serve as reminders of the importance of fire safety and preparedness. Residents are urged to ensure their smoke detectors are operational and to never leave cooking unattended. For additional fire safety tips and resources, visit your local fire department’s website.
A part of Prince William County’s Fatherhood Initiative, the free Father & Daughter Dance is a signature event of the initiative. It’s hosted by the Department of Social Services.
“The Fatherhood Initiative is dedicated to equipping fathers with the resources and support they need to nurture healthy relationships with their children. Through workshops, forums, and community events, we aim to help fathers strengthen family bonds and leave a positive, lasting impact on their children’s lives,” Fatherhood Engagement Coordinator Jeffery Faulkerson said.
The Fatherhood Initiative was put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic, but has been relaunched to focus on building healthier home environments, a county press release stated.
The dance is free and open to the public on Feb. 8 from 6 to 9 p.m. at 15941 Donald Curtis Drive in Woodbridge. Those interested in attending can reserve a spot on the dance’s Eventbrite page.
At 9:48 a.m. Tuesday, January 14, 2025, firefighters were dispatched to the 16300 block of Boatswain Circle in Woodbridge after reports of a fire in a home. All occupants evacuated safely before crews arrived, reporting the fire was in a basement bedroom. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze, which caused moderate damage to the home.
One adult occupant sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local medical facility. The fire displaced five adults and three children. The Red Cross is assisting the affected families. Due to the extent of the damage, the building official declared the home unsafe for occupancy.
Authorities emphasized that working smoke detectors and a closed bedroom door played a crucial role in limiting the fire’s spread and ensuring residents’ safe evacuation. Fire officials reminded residents to regularly test their smoke detectors and keep bedroom doors closed at night to enhance fire safety. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
On Friday, January 10, 2025, at 8:28 p.m., firefighters responded to multiple calls reporting a house fire on the 6900 block of Harvey Road in Manassas. When crews arrived, they found a single-family home fully engulfed in flames.
Neighbors reported the fire, as the home’s occupants were not present. Battling adverse weather conditions, firefighters worked to bring the fire under control. Unfortunately, the house was destroyed.
The fire displaced four adults, assisted by the Red Cross. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Fire Marshal’s Office.
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In this Potomac Local News Podcast episode, we sit down with Jeff Joyner, President of Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, to explore the hospital’s incredible 50+ year journey – the past 15 years of which have been under Sentara’s watch.
Learn how this community-built hospital has evolved with transformative investments, including freestanding emergency rooms, a cardiovascular surgery center, and cutting-edge AI technology.
From its roots as Potomac Hospital to its role today as a leader in local healthcare, Sentara continues to innovate while staying true to its mission of serving the community. Whether you’re curious about the future of healthcare or want to hear how the hospital has remained a vital part of Northern Virginia, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Topics Covered:
- Sentara’s deep community ties and history
- The hospital’s recent investments and expansions
- How AI and technology are transforming healthcare
- Exciting plans for the future
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon on YouTube to stay updated on the latest local news and interviews! Subscribe to our FREE email newsletter if you haven’t already done so. Thank you
OmniRide has announced adjusted operations for Tuesday, January 7, in response to anticipated inclement weather conditions. Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FXBGO!) has also confirmed the suspension of all transit services on Monday, January 6, due to the weather, with plans to resume operations on Tuesday at 10 a.m.
OmniRide Service Updates for Tuesday, January 7
OmniRide services will operate as follows, weather permitting:
- Express Commuter Service: Buses will run hourly between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Service will begin at 6 a.m. from commuter lots to Metro Stations, with the last trip leaving the Metro Stations at 5 p.m. Rides will be free.
- Western Service area: University Commuter Lot to West Falls Church Metro Station
- Eastern Service area: Horner Road Commuter Lot (Stop #1) to Franconia-Springfield
- Metro Express: No service
- Local Service: Local routes and the East-West Express will operate on weekend schedules
- Connect Microtransit: No service
- Connect Paratransit: No service
Any further updates will be sent via Rider Express messages and posted on OmniRide.com. For inquiries, OmniRide’s Customer Service Team is available at 703-730-6664.
Due to inclement weather, Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FXBGO!) will not operate on Monday, January 6. Administrative offices will remain closed. Service is expected to resume on Tuesday, January 7, at 10 a.m. Additional information is available on the FXBGO! website or by following @FXBGO on Facebook.
Prince William County government offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, January 6, 2025, as officials anticipate potential impacts from adverse weather conditions. The decision was made to ensure the safety of residents and county employees during what is expected to be a challenging day for travel and operations.
The closure affects all county government buildings, including administrative offices, public libraries, community centers, and other public facilities. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the weather forecast and road conditions, taking precautions as necessary to remain safe.
Essential services, such as emergency response teams, will continue to operate during the closure to ensure public safety and address urgent needs in the community. County officials are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed regarding any further adjustments to schedules or services.
For more information and updates, residents can visit the county’s official website or follow its social media channels.
In the late 1900s, before smartphones and 24/7 weather updates, people often tuned into The Weather Channel (TWC) for the most up-to-date forecasts; as a child, Tony Craddock tuned in to listen to the soothing background music that accompanied the forecasts. Years later, when his own music was featured on the channel, it was a surreal, full-circle moment for Craddock. His 2011 Christmas album was picked up by TWC and served as background music for the season’s forecasts.
Craddock’s musical journey began in sixth grade when he chose the saxophone—an instrument he describes as having a tone and command close to the human voice. His passion for the sax blossomed through mentorship, early private lessons, and the influence of his father, an avid jazz listener.
Craddock said his parents played a pivotal role in his development, supporting his musical endeavors from the beginning, including investing in a professional saxophone while he was still in high school in Woodbridge. The investment paid off as Craddock’s talent grew, with guidance from key figures like Rob Maletick, a nearby local saxophonist and mentor, and several influential music teachers. Craddock’s high school band directors, Doug Silver and Earl Jackson, saw his potential early on, pushing him to elevate his skills. Craddock also credits his church, 1st Mount Zion Baptist, where Deacon Charles Perkins gave him opportunities to play for various choirs, helping shape his love for music and his confidence as a young musician.
Craddock’s interest in weather remained strong as he pursued a degree in meteorology from Cornell University. After graduating and briefly working with the National Weather Service, Craddock turned his focus to music. A challenge from his parents pushed him to take his music career more seriously: if he agreed to release an album, they would buy him a new soprano saxophone.Â
Craddock said “Christmas in the Air,” his first album, released in 2011, was a testament to his faith and love for music.Â
Craddock’s music journey includes four albums, and his work has been shared on the Weather Channel, Sirius XM, and jazz and gospel radio stations worldwide. Craddock plans to release a new album in the coming months, with plans to connect directly with fans through a new landing page.
Craddock said his appreciation for mentorship and music education drives his dedication to giving back. Having been shaped by mentors, including music teachers and the owners of Studio A to G Music in Woodbridge, where he recorded his albums, Craddock is now a substitute music teacher and mentor. He believes in supporting youth and helping them discover their potential through music, emphasizing the importance of well-rounded development, even if students don’t pursue music professionally.
Now a regular performer at jazz festivals, weddings, corporate events, and church gatherings, Craddock said he views every performance as a way to bless others with his God-given talent.
Craddock emphasized the importance of musical education for youth, saying exposure to music helps build critical thinking skills and mathematical skills. He said music helps form more well-rounded individuals, even if they don’t pursue an instrument professionally.
He also noted the importance of older generations encouraging and mentoring youth in music. Reflecting on his mentors, Craddock said without their support, encouragement, and sharing wisdom, he wouldn’t be where he is today.
