UPDATED: An 8-mile stretch of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in Woodbridge could cost as much as $5 million.
According to one preliminary estimate, one stretch of the trail, between Neabsco Creek and Metz Wetlands, which would connect Rippon Lodge with Leesylvania State Park, would cost $2 million, said Wooodbridge District Supervisor Frank J. Principi.
That cost is included in the original $5 million estimate.
“We are now in the middle of engaging engineers to better assess the ultimate costs of the projects. While some funding exists, additional funding will be needed from federal and state grants, proffers, land donations, and volunteer association sweat equity in helping to build the trail,” said Principi.
The cost estimates come from the original planning organizations, which include the Prince William County Park Authority, the Northern Virginia Regional Commission and U.S. Department of the Interior.
—
Woodbridge, Va. –– A new agreement will bring the expansion of the Potomac National Scenic Trail in Woodbridge, but the document does not detail how much it will cost.
The 5-year memorandum of understanding signed Saturday by parks, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Woodbridge Supervisor Frank J. Principi, outlines who’s in charge when it comes to the expansion of the trial, which is part of an 830-mile national scenic trail system that includes trails in Pennsylvania, Washington and Maryland.
The development of the trail has long been seen as one of the selling points for a revitalized North Woodbridge, which officials earlier this year approved a massive redevelopment plan for the area between Occoquan Road and the Occoquan River – which calls for high-rise buildings, denser, more walk able development and more transit options.
PotomacLocal.com is waiting to hear back from the officials on how much the expanded trail system might cost, and where they money would come from.
The trail snakes its way from Leesburg, through Arlington and Alexandria, with a portion of it ending in Prince William County.
The yet-to-be developed portion of the trail runs between Mount Vernon and the Occoquan River.
An 8-mile portion of the trail in Woodbridge that leads to Leesylvania State Park, and onto Prince William Forest Park – the area in which the new agreement focuses on – still needs to be built.
Overall, the trail system in which the Potomac Heritage trail belongs to also includes trails in Pennsylvania, Washington and Maryland.
The trail system was created in 1968, and today is used by hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders and cross-country skiers.
Recent Stories
Prince William County is inviting the community to celebrate freedom, unity, and culture at this year’s Juneteenth “With Me” Festival, happening Wednesday, June 19, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Pfitzner Stadium Complex.
Amateur radio operators will be out in force the weekend of June 28–29, as part of the 2025 American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Field Day exercise, demonstrating how ham radio can function when modern communications fail.
Republican Gregory Lee Gorham won the GOP nomination for Virginia’s 21st House District on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, defeating two challengers in a three-way primary and setting up a November contest against incumbent Democrat Josh Thomas.
Prince William County Public Schools is asking families to notify the division whether their students will require bus transportation for the upcoming 2025–26 school year, a move aimed at improving routing efficiency and service reliability.
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
