The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) invites public feedback on a series of proposed roadway improvements in Dale City and Woodbridge as part of its Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) study. The study focuses on enhancing traffic flow and safety along a stretch of road from Dale Boulevard, across Route 1, to Blackburn Road. This initiative addresses the growing concerns over pedestrian safety and traffic congestion in one of Northern Virginia’s bustling regions.
The STARS study area encompasses nearly two miles, assessing potential improvements on Dale Boulevard (Route 784) from Gideon Drive to Route 1, and Rippon Boulevard (Route 1392) from Route 1 to Blackburn Road. With traffic volumes averaging about 44,000 vehicles per day on Dale Boulevard and 14,000 on Rippon Boulevard, the need for strategic enhancements has become increasingly apparent.
Following a first round of public involvement in July 2023, which gathered community input on corridor priorities, VDOT has now moved to present several design alternatives aimed at transforming these key roadways. These proposals aim to make the roads safer for drivers and pedestrians, addressing specific issues identified through traffic analysis and public feedback.
Residents have until March 8, 2024, to review and provide input on these proposals, which focus on key intersections along the Dale and Rippon Boulevards, including:
- Gideon Drive
- Ashdale Plaza
- The southbound I-95 off-ramp
- Neabsco Mills Road/Potomac Center Boulevard
- Route 1
- Forest Grove Drive
Each proposed alternative has been designed to balance reducing traffic congestion, enhancing pedestrian access and safety, and minimizing right-of-way and drainage impacts. The options range from adding additional lanes and turning points to installing high-visibility crosswalks, pedestrian refuge islands, and improved lighting. Some alternatives also propose innovative solutions, such as converting intersections to thru-cuts or installing traffic signals at key points to facilitate smoother traffic flow.
A notable proposal includes reallocating space on the Dale Boulevard bridge over I-95 to create a wide sidewalk, significantly improving pedestrian access and safety by providing a direct crossing over I-95, a current challenge for pedestrians in the area.
Residents are asked to complete the online survey on the project website.
The study is slated for completion in the fall of 2024, with the current phase of public involvement playing a critical role in shaping the final recommendations.
There have been a total of eight STARS studies in Prince William County over the past eight years, addressing issues on Prince William Parkway, Route 1 and Russel Road at Quantico Marine Corps Base, Sudley Road near Manassas, and Old Bridge Road/Route 123/I-95 in Lake Ridge.
Recent Stories
A black snake found inside the Stafford County Courthouse was safely removed Thursday morning without objection—or appeal. Deputies discovered the snake slithering down a hallway and quickly intervened. First Sergeant…
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Downtown Fredericksburg is rolling out the welcome mat for May’s First Friday celebration, and the weather couldn’t be better.
MANASSAS PARK, Va. – The Manassas Park High School Theatre Department is bringing a delightfully spooky classic to life this week with performances of The Addams Family Musical. The show runs from May 1 through May 4 and promises an evening filled with laughter, eerie tunes, and all the charm of the famously offbeat Addams clan.
STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County is tackling two major traffic challenges — and it’s asking residents to weigh in while preparing to break ground on a major intersection upgrade.
Empower Your Future: Leadership, Mentorship, Education, and Networking — Calling middle and high school students for FREE Educational Summer Programming!
LLT STEMpower Camp at Marymount University
Middle School Students | Two Sessions:
July 7–11, 2025
Inspired by local physicians who were among the nation’s first to adopt the concierge medicine model, Northern Virginia is now a hub for its surging popularity. These leading physicians are redefining the patient experience with same-day appointments, direct availability, unhurried visits, and deeply personalized care:
After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”
Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”
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
