Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber’s Leadership Fredericksburg program graduated its seventeenth class during a May 17th ceremony at the Stevenson Ridge in Spotsylvania.

Donna Kraus, a graduate of LF 2010, was the keynote speaker for the event. Donna shared her leadership journey and how the program helped shape her into the leader she is today. Jaime Garza from Ignite Cinemas is the 2024 Class President. Jaime shared an inspiring message about the 2024 class’s experiences over the past nine months.

The 2024 class was led by five faculty with extensive experience with leadership development and training: Dr. David Corderman (Academy Leadership Associates), Dr. J.R. Flatter (Flatter, Inc.), Susan Spears (FRCC), Janel Donohue (Rappahannock United Way and Dr. Kimberly Young (University of Mary Washington). Over nine months the class met in different business locations throughout the region. They learned key leadership content and took two assessments. They met with community, business, nonprofit, and educational leaders, who offered the fellows insights about their personal leadership journeys. Each fellow was paired with a trained mentor from the business community who supported their progress throughout the program.

Prior to graduation, four teams from the class of 32 presented the results of their Community Action Projects for two local non-profits, the 516 Project and Fairy Godmother Project. Each team presented their deliverables during the Project Presentations at Germanna Community College on Thursday May 9th, 2024.

Leadership Fredericksburg 2024 Fellows:

• Kellee Akers, Germanna Community College
• Paul Covill, Burke and Herbert Bank
• Binita Desai, Mary Washington Healthcare
• Krissy Donahoe, Fredericksburg Christian School
• Heather Flores
• Jennifer Fousek, CIP Finishes
• David Fraser, Fraser Wood Elements
• Carter Garrison, Atlantic Builders
• Jaime Garza, Ignite Cinemas
• Allison Graves, REDCO
• Veronica Gutierrez, Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation
• Autumn Hayes, Atlantic Union Bank
• Ronni Hess, LifeCare Medical Transports
• Nikki Jackson, Stafford County Public Schools
• Werner F. Jansen, Bloomia
• Joe Jennings, Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center
• Amy Jindra, Rappahannock Area Community Services Board
• Wesley Kinsey, Germanna Community College
• Brian Lam, Collage Spa
• Stephanie Lambertson, Premier Eyecare
• Cyndi Mack, Universal Dynamics
• Brittany McBride, Cary Street Partners
• Reno McCormick, Flatter, Inc.
• Michael Middleton, University of Mary Washington
• Abhijeet Nakave, Smart Prime Care
• Takiya Reavis-Benjamin, Mary Washington Healthcare
• John Palmer, Stafford County Government
• Victor Podbielski, Fredericksburg Fire Department
• Amanda Roane, SimVentions, Inc.
• David Stallard, Riphean Hospitality
• Andrew Sulser, Fredericksburg Technology
• Luca Tondin, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative

Applications for the 2024 Class are available now the Chamber’s website, HERE. The application deadline is Monday, July 1 at close of business. There will be an in-person information session about Leadership Fredericksburg 2025 held at the Chamber office on Wednesday, May 29 at 3:30 p.m. Find out more here HERE

Stafford County Public Schools: Stafford County Public Schools proudly recognized seven outstanding community partners during its annual Partner Appreciation Breakfast, held on Wednesday, May 15 at Ebenezer United Methodist Church. These esteemed partners have demonstrated exceptional dedication and support to students, staff, and school community throughout the academic year.

The Partner Appreciation Breakfast serves as a platform for the school district to express gratitude and celebrate the collaborative efforts of the community that enhance educational opportunities and enrich the lives of students. This year’s event was marked by a spirit of camaraderie and appreciation for the invaluable contributions made by our partners.

Dr. Thomas Taylor, Superintendent, expressed deep appreciation for the commitment and support shown by all of Stafford Schools Partners in Education. “Our partners play a vital role in shaping the educational landscape for our students. Their unwavering dedication and generosity empower us to provide enriching experiences and opportunities that positively impact our school community.”

During the breakfast, each partner was honored with a plaque of recognition and a heartfelt expression of thanks from school district officials. The honorees for the Partner of the Year awards are as follows: Read More

Greetings, Prince William – Does your organization have an outstanding volunteer whose service deserves recognition? Serve Virginia has announced nominations for this year’s Governor’s Volunteerism & Community Service Awards are now open! It’s a wonderful way you can recognize and thank that special volunteer for all they’ve done to support your organization and its mission! Please visit https://bit.ly/3K2GLT1 for more information. The deadline to submit is June 25 at 5 p.m.

• The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program urgently needs friendly Volunteer Drivers age 18+ to provide rides for local patients who have appointments for treatments on weekdays. Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license and automobile insurance, pass background and vehicle records checks and complete required training. Not only will you be providing a smile and a ride, you’ll also be helping to save a life! Please visit cancer.org/drive to learn more or email Jen at jen.bu…@cancer.org.
• You can make a difference in the life of a child! CASA Children’s Intervention Services needs volunteers age 21+ who care about children growing up in a safe, permanent and loving home. The staff will hold their next Virtual Information Session on June 12, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. Learn how you can help protect abused and neglected children in your community by becoming a volunteer advocate. Please email jpo…@casacis.org or call 703.330.8145 to receive the link to the meeting or to inquire about alternate dates.
• Educate America, Inc, a nonprofit startup, is seeking volunteers ages 18+ to assist with providing after-school tutoring and mentoring services within five (5) to ten (10) Prince William County Public Schools during the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 school year. Volunteer with Educate America and make a difference in the lives of underserved youth! Your time and expertise can positively impact the academic success and personal development of our youth—contributing to brighter futures for the next generation. Volunteers will need to have background and CPS checks completed by July 15, 2024. Please join them as a volunteer, tutor, mentor, or community partner by completing and submitting the online application form(s) at educateusainc.org/now-recruiting. Questions? Please email educat…@gmail.com.
• Here’s a “Honey” of a volunteer opportunity! The Manassas Bee Festival is coming June 22 at Liberia House, 8601 Portner Avenue, Manassas and volunteer “Worker Bees” of all ages are needed to support this fun event. Volunteers under 18 are welcome to volunteer with a responsible adult or group leader. Volunteers are needed June 21 help set up the festival at Liberia House. Then, volunteers will help with the 2K Honey Hike 8:45 a.m. on June 22 at Manassas Museum lawn and on shifts during the festival on June 22. Jobs include assisting with set up, helping vendors unload, helping at the welcome tent to show the map or answer basic questions. Volunteers who sign up will get a free green t-shirt but should complete the online form at manassasbeefestival.com/contact-donations-questions/. Please be sure to indicate you are a Volunteer on the form. Please email manassasb…@gmail.com for more information.
• You can help homebound seniors get a hot, nutritious meal! Meals on Wheels has an urgent need for volunteers to deliver noontime meals to homebound older adults weekdays between 10 a.m. and 12p.m. Daily routes take about 1.5 hours to complete; the schedule is flexible! Volunteers must have their own vehicle, valid driver’s license, and current automobile insurance. Volunteers must also pass a background and driving record check. Meals on Wheels operates out of the Manassas and Woodbridge Senior Centers, and you’ll feel great knowing you are helping to fight food insecurity and deliver a friendly smile to our local senior population! Please visit pwcva.gov/department/area-agency-aging/volunteer for more information and volunteer forms, email TSol…@pwcgov.org with any questions.
• The 2nd Annual Puerto Rican Festival is scheduled for June 15, 1 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Harris Pavilion in Manassas, and volunteers age 16+ are needed to make this a success! All sorts of fun jobs are available including setup, assisting vendors, monitoring children’s games, face painting, help with Lost and Found and more! While bilingual skills in Spanish are not required, they will be helpful. This is a family-friendly event, and you’ll feel great as you help support the culture of our neighbor in the Caribbean! Please email manassasp…@gmail.com for more information and to sign up.
• Gardeners, here’s a fantastic volunteer opportunity for you! PWC Office of Historic Preservation is looking for Historic Garden Volunteers to help maintain the garden at Rippon Lodge Historic Site this summer. Help is needed with planting, weeding and harvesting the fruit and vegetables. You’ll enjoy being outdoors as you help the garden illustrate what plants may have been planted by the Ellis family in a Victory Garden during World War II! Please call Rippon Lodge at 703.499.9812 for more information.

–Volunteer Prince William 

I-95 Northbound: Exit 110 (Ladysmith) to Exit 118 (Thornburg): Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure at mile marker 117 for bridge washing at Matta River.

• Exit 118 (Thornburg) to Exit 126 (Spotsylvania): Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure at mile marker 119 for bridge washing at Po River.
• Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure at mile marker 121 for bridge washing at Ni River.
• Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Bridge work. Single lane closure at 9 p.m. followed by double lane closure at 10 p.m. between mile markers 125-126. All lanes will reopen by 5 a.m. Construction of a new overpass of I-95 at Route 17 (Mills Drive).
• Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure at mile marker 126 for bridge washing of Route 1 overpass.
• Exit 130 (Route 3) to Exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton): Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure in the local and through lanes of the Rappahannock River bridges and the Route 17 overpasses. Bridge washing.
• Exit 143 (Aquia/Garrisonville) to Exit 148 (Quantico): Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. Single lane closure at 9 p.m. followed by double lane closure at 10 p.m. Bridge joint repairs at mile marker 145 over Aquia Creek.

I-95 Southbound: Exit 148 (Quantico) to Exit 143 (Aquia/Garrisonville): Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. Single lane closure at 9 p.m. followed by double lane closure at 10 p.m. Bridge joint repairs at mile marker 145 over Aquia Creek.

• Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 10 a.m. Single lane closure between mile markers 148-146 for 95 Express Lanes Fredericksburg Extension work.
• Exit 140 (Courthouse Road) to Exit 136 (Centreport Parkway): Monday – Thursday, 4 a.m. – 10 a.m. Single lane closure at mile markers 139-137 for slope repair as part of the 95 Express Lanes Fredericksburg Extension work.
• Exit 136 (Centreport Parkway) to Exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton): Monday, midnight – 10 a.m. Single lane closure on I-95 southbound at mile markers 136-134 for 95 Express Lanes Fredericksburg Extension work.
• Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 10 a.m.Single lane closure at 9 p.m. followed by double lane closure at 10 p.m. for paving and other construction activities for the 95 Express Lanes Fredericksburg Extension at mile markers 136-134. Double lane closure is permitted until 4:30 a.m. Single lane closure continues from 4:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
• Exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton) to Exit 130 (Route 3): Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure in the local and through lanes of the Route 17 overpasses and Rappahannock River bridges. Bridge washing.
• Exit 126 (Spotsylvania) to Exit 118 (Thornburg): Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure at mile marker 126 for bridge washing of Route 1 overpass.
• Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure starting at 9 p.m. followed by double lane closures at 10 p.m. between mile markers 125-120. Milling and paving.
• Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure at mile marker 121 for bridge washing at Ni River.
• Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure at mile marker 119 for bridge washing at Po River.
• Exit 118 (Thornburg) to Exit 110 (Ladysmith): Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Single lane closure at mile marker 117 for bridge washing at Matta River.

Spotsylvania County: Route 1 Northbound at Route 606 (Mudd Tavern Road): Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. – noon. Single lane closure for Route 606 widening project. The northbound right turn lane to eastbound Mudd Tavern Road will be closed.

• Route 3 (Plank Road) at Route 621 (Orange Plank Road): Monday – Thursday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Friday, 7 a.m. – noon. Single lane closure for intersection reconstruction project.
• Route 601 (Lewiston Road): Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Alternating lane closures with flagging. Installation of high-friction surface treatment and pavement marking work near Mica Mine Road.
• Route 601 (Arrit Road): Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Alternating lane closures with flagging. Installation of high-friction surface treatment and pavement marking work near Greenes Corner Road.
• Route 646 (Stanfield Road): Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Alternating lane closures with flagging. Installation of high-friction surface treatment and pavement marking work near White Angel Lane and Long Acres Lane.
• Route 649 (Seays Road): Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Pavement markings. One-way, alternating traffic directed by a flagging crew between Post Oak Road and Robert E. Lee Drive.
• Route 674 (Chancellor Road): Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Milling and paving. One-way, alternating traffic directed by a flagging crew between Old Plank Road and Gordon Road.
• Route 711 (Southpoint Parkway): Tuesday – Friday, 3 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Single lane closure between Route 1 and Pacific Drive. Bridge work as part of Southpoint Parkway widening and improvements.
• Route 721 (Grand Brooks Road): Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating lane closures for cape seal surface treatment between Lawyers Road and Stubbs Bridge Road. One-way, alternating traffic directed by a flagging crew and pilot truck.
• I-95 Southbound Exit 126 Off-Ramp and Route 1 Southbound: A second right turn lane is under construction from the I-95 southbound off-ramp at exit 126 onto Route 1 southbound. Route 1 southbound is being widened from the off-ramp to Southpoint Parkway with an additional turn lane. A second right turn lane is being added from Route 1 southbound to Southpoint Parkway. Traffic islands will be installed along Southpoint Parkway as a safety improvement to allow left turns into driveways but restrict through and left-turning traffic exiting from side streets. Additional right turn lane added to Southpoint Parkway to Route 1 southbound. Project completion in Aug. 2025.
• Route 3 and Orange Plank Road: Construction started Wednesday, May 8 to modify the intersection of Route 3 and Orange Plank Rd. to a new traffic pattern to enhance safety, improve traffic flow, and reduce conflict points. Project completion in summer 2024.
• Route 17 (Mills Drive) Overpass Replacement and Widening: Construction started in Dec. 2020 to replace the existing two-lane interstate overpass on Route 17 with a four-lane bridge. Route 17 is being widened to four lanes until just east of the Hospital Boulevard/Germanna Point Drive intersection. A shared-use path, sidewalk, and pedestrian crossing equipment will be added as part of the project. Project completion was scheduled for late Feb. 2024. The project is now anticipated to be completed in summer 2024.
• Route 208 (Courthouse Road) and Hood Drive: Hood Drive is reduced to a single lane between Route 1 and Route 208 (Courthouse Road), carrying only northbound traffic. Southbound traffic should follow the posted detour along Courthouse Road and Route 1 southbound. New right and left turn lanes are under construction at an entrance to a future Veterans Health Administration clinic. Additional turn lanes will be built on northbound Hood Drive approaching Courthouse Road. A raised median on Hood Drive will separate northbound and southbound traffic between Courthouse Road and McGowan Drive. Additional sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian crossing equipment will be installed at the intersection. Project completion in June 2024.
• Route 606 (Mudd Tavern Road) Widening: Mudd Tavern Road is being widened to four lanes between I-95 and Route 1. A new secondary access route, Route 2092, will be built parallel to Mudd Tavern Road, and will connect with South Roxbury Mill Road and Dan Bell Lane. Project completion in May 2025.

Stafford County: Augustine North Subdivision: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Milling and paving on various routes throughout Augustine North subdivision between Courthouse Road and Mountain View Road. Flaggers will direct traffic through the work zone.

• Route 635 (Decatur Road): Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating one-way traffic on Decatur Road for cape seal surface treatment between Indian View Road and Norman Road. Flaggers and pilot truck will direct traffic through the work zone.
• Route 658 (Brent Point Road): Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating one-way traffic on Brent Point Road for cape seal surface treatment between Arkendale Road to end of the state maintenance. Flaggers and pilot truck will direct traffic through the work zone.
• Route 649 (Richland Road): Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating one-way traffic on Richland Road for cape seal surface treatment between Route 17 and Hartwood Road. Flaggers and pilot truck will direct traffic through the work zone.

—Virginia Department of Transportation

I-95 Northbound and Southbound: Exit 126 (Spotsylvania) to Exit 148 (Quantico): Tuesday – Wednesday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Mobile work zone to patch potholes. Expect alternating single and double lane closures at various locations between the two interchanges.

• Exit 130 (Route 3) to Exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton): Sunday – Friday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Alternating single and double lane closures at 10 p.m. at the four bridges over the Rappahannock River at mile marker 132 for bridge washing.
• Exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton): Sunday – Friday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Alternating single and double lane closures at 10 p.m. at all the bridges over Route 17 at the exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton) interchange for bridge washing.
• Exit 136 (Centreport Parkway): Sunday – Friday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Alternating lane closures at the bridges over Potomac Creek near the exit 136 (Centrport Parkway) interchange for bridge washing with double lane closures at 10 p.m.
• Exit 140 (Courthouse Road): Sunday – Friday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Alternating lane closure at the bridges over Courthouse Road at the interchange for bridge washing with double lane closures at 10 p.m.
• Exit 143 (Garrisonville): Sunday – Friday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Alternating lane closure at the bridges over Aquia Creek with double lane closures at 10 p.m. at mile marker 145 near the exit 143 (Garrisonville) interchange for bridge washing.

I-95 Northbound: Exit 126 (Spotsylvania): Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Bridge work. Single lane closure at 9 p.m. followed by double lane closures at 10 p.m. between mile markers 125-126. All lanes will reopen by 5 a.m. Construction of a new overpass of I-95 at Route 17 (Mills Drive).

• Exit 130 (Route 3) to Exit 136 (Centreport Parkway): Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Single lane closures between mile markers 129 to 134. for the I-95 Northbound Rappahannock River Crossing.
• Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. and Friday, 10 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. Alternating single and double lane closures at 10 p.m. on I-95 northbound in the local and through lanes. Crews installing rumble strips and pavement markings for the I-95 Northbound Rappahannock River Crossing project.
• Exit 130 (Route 3) to Exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton): Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Single lane closure on both the local and through travel lanes on I-95 northbound at mile markers 129-134 for final construction activities for the I-95 Northbound Rappahannock River Crossing project.

I-95 Southbound: Exit 148 (Quantico) to Exit 143 (Aquia/Garrisonville)
Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 10 a.m. and Thursday – Friday, 9 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. Single lane closure between mile markers 148-146 for 95 Express Lanes Fredericksburg Extension work.

• Exit 140 (Courthouse Road): Monday – Thursday, 4 a.m. – 10 a.m. Single lane closure for slope repair.
• Exit 136 (Centreport Parkway) to Exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton): Monday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 10 a.m. and Thursday – Friday, 9 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. Single lane closure on I-95 southbound at mile markers 136-134 for 95 Express Lanes Fredericksburg Extension work.
• Exit 133 (Falmouth/Warrenton) to Exit 130 (Route 3): Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. Single lane closure starting at 9 p.m. on the local lanes followed by double lane closures at 10 p.m. Milling and paving work.
• Exit 126 (Spotsylvania): Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 5 a.m. Bridge work. Single lane closure at 9 p.m. followed by double lane closures at 10 p.m. between mile markers 125-126. All lanes will reopen by 5 a.m. Construction of a new overpass of I-95 at Route 17 (Mills Drive).
• Exit 126 (Spotsylvania) to Exit 118 (Thornburg): Sunday – Thursday, 9 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. Single lane closure starting at 9 p.m. followed by double lane closures at 10 p.m. between mile markers 125-120. Milling and paving work on the travel lanes.

Spotsylvania County: Route 1 Northbound at Route 606 (Mudd Tavern Road): Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mudd Tavern Road northbound right turn lane at Route 1 intersection will be closed for utility work.

• Route 1 Southbound: Monday – Wednesday, 7 p.m. – 6 a.m. Single lane closure between the I-95 southbound off-ramp and Southpoint Parkway for barrier wall removal work.
• Route 3 (Plank Road) at Route 621 (Orange Plank Road): Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Single lane closure at the intersection for construction.
• Route 601 (Lewiston Road): Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Alternating lane closures with flagging for surface treatment and pavement marking work near Mica Mine Road.
• Route 601 (Arrit Road): Tuesday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Alternating lane closures with flagging for surface treatment and pavement marking work near Greenes Corner Road.
• Route 646 (Stanfield Road): Wednesday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Alternating lane closures with flagging for surface treatment and pavement marking work between White Angel Lane and Long Acres Lane.
• Route 649 (Seays Road): Monday – Tuesday, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Milling and paving. One-way, alternating traffic directed by a flagging crew between Post Oak Road and Robert E. Lee Drive.
• Route 655 (Ridge Road): Monday – Wednesday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating lane closures for cape seal surface treatment between Courthouse Road and Lawyers Road. One-way, alternating traffic directed by a flagging crew and pilot truck.
• Route 674 (Chancellor Road): Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Milling and paving. One-way, alternating traffic directed by a flagging crew between Old Plank Road and Gordon Road.
• Route 711 (Southpoint Parkway): Monday – Wednesday, 7 p.m. – 5:30 a.m. Single lane closure between Route 1 southbound and Pacific Drive for barrier wall removal work.
• Route 721 (Grand Brooks Road): Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating lane closures for cape seal surface treatment between Lawyers Road and Stubbs Bridge Road. One-way, alternating traffic directed by a flagging crew and pilot truck.
• I-95 Southbound Exit 126 Off-Ramp and Route 1 Southbound: A second right turn lane is under construction from the I-95 southbound off-ramp at exit 126 onto Route 1 southbound. Route 1 southbound is being widened from the off-ramp to Southpoint Parkway with an additional turn lane. A second right turn lane is being added from Route 1 southbound to Southpoint Parkway. Traffic islands will be installed along Southpoint Parkway as a safety improvement to allow left turns into driveways but restrict through and left-turning traffic exiting from side streets. Additional right turn lane added to Southpoint Parkway to Route 1 southbound. Project completion in Aug. 2025.
• Route 3 and Orange Plank Road: Construction started Wednesday, May 8 to modify the intersection of Route 3 and Orange Plank Rd. to a new traffic pattern to enhance safety, improve traffic flow, and reduce conflict points. Project completion in summer 2024.
• Route 17 (Mills Drive) Overpass Replacement and Widening: Construction started in Dec. 2020 to replace the existing two-lane interstate overpass on Route 17 with a four-lane bridge. Route 17 is being widened to four lanes until just east of the Hospital Boulevard/Germanna Point Drive intersection. A shared-use path, sidewalk, and pedestrian crossing equipment will be added as part of the project. Project completion was scheduled for late Feb. 2024. The project is now anticipated to be completed in Summer 2024.
• Route 208 (Courthouse Road) and Hood Drive: Hood Drive is reduced to a single lane between Route 1 and Route 208 (Courthouse Road), carrying only northbound traffic. Southbound traffic should follow the posted detour along Courthouse Road and Route 1 southbound. New right and left turn lanes are under construction at an entrance to a future Veterans Health Administration clinic. Additional turn lanes will be built on northbound Hood Drive approaching Courthouse Road. A raised median on Hood Drive will separate northbound and southbound traffic between Courthouse Road and McGowan Drive. Additional sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian crossing equipment will be installed at the intersection. Project completion in June 2024.
• Route 606 (Mudd Tavern Road) Widening: Mudd Tavern Road is being widened to four lanes between I-95 and Route 1. A new secondary access route, Route 2092, will be built parallel to Mudd Tavern Road, and will connect with South Roxbury Mill Road and Dan Bell Lane. Project completion in May 2025.

Stafford County: Route 17 Northbound: Sunday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. – 6 a.m. Alternating single lane closures on Route 17 northbound between Short Street and Sanford Drive for I-95 Northbound Rappahannock River Crossing construction.

• Route 17 Southbound: Sunday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. – 7 a.m. Alternating single lane closures on Route 17 southbound between Sanford Drive and Short Street for I-95 Northbound Rappahannock River Crossing construction.
• Augustine North Subdivision: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Milling and paving on various routes throughout Augustine North subdivision between Courthouse Road and Mountain View Road. Flaggers will direct traffic through the work zone.
• Berea Church Road: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Alternating lane closures with flagging between Truslow Road and Warrenton Road for utility work for the Berea Church Road construction project.
• Brent Point Road: Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating one-way traffic on Brent Point Road for cape seal surface treatment between Arkendale Road to end of the state maintenance. Flaggers and pilot truck will direct traffic through the work zone.
• Decatur Road: Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating one-way traffic on Decatur Road for cape seal surface treatment between Indian View Road and Norman Road. Flaggers and pilot truck will direct traffic through the work zone.
• Richland Road: Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Alternating one-way traffic on Richland Road for cape seal surface treatment between Route 17 and Hartwood Road. Flaggers and pilot truck will direct traffic through the work zone.
• Rosehaven Street: Monday – Thursday, 7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Alternating lane closure for pipe replacement work with flaggers directing traffic through the work zone.
• Sanford Drive: Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Alternating one-way traffic on Sanford Drive between Route 17 and Simpson Drive for pavement marking work.
• South Gateway Drive: Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Alternating lane closures on South Gateway Drive near the Route 17 intersection for pavement marking work.

—Virginia Department of Transportation

This Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 9 to noon, the annual Manassas Reads Festival will take place at the Harris Pavilion in downtown Manassas.

Hosted by the City of Manassas and Manassas City Public Schools, the event encourages guests of all ages to stop by and take home some free books.

The pavilion is located at 9201 Center Street, Manassas. The event will include various special guests, such as authors, school representatives, and student volunteers.

Live book readings, crafts, and library card registration will take place throughout the morning. Attendees are welcome to take as many books as they like, but they should consider other book lovers.

The books were provided by numerous local sources, including community citizens, staff, businesses, and organizations.

Organizers for the Manassas Reads Festival say the event aims to promote literacy among community members by providing free books for all. Make sure to stop by this Saturday!

Russell Smith of Stafford was among the 368 Lewis University student-athletes honored for academic excellence on April 22 with the Brother David Delahanty, FSC Award at the Convocation Hall located on the Romeoville Campus.

Incoming students have enrolled at McDaniel College as members of the Class of 2028. This list includes students who have deposited as of May 3, 2024. Micah Hagander and Sydney Turner of Stafford.

The following people were recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines: Yanyna Yaich of Woodbridge at the University of West Alabama and Nina Buckley of Montclair at George Mason University.

The University of Georgia will celebrate more than 8,000 candidates for graduation in the Class of 2024 during upcoming Commencement ceremonies. Abigail McQuillan, of Gainesville, is a candidate for a BS Biology, and Sarah Heaton, of Gainesville, is a candidate for a BS Biomedical Physiology and BS Biology.

More than 100 military awards and scholarships were presented to University of North Georgia cadets at the March Military Awards Ceremony and a pair of April events during Alumni Weekend. Cadet Mark Alexander from Stafford received the Old Guard of the Gate City Guard.

Mckenna Connelly of Stafford was among the 1,931 students named to Samford University’s Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester.

Northern Virginia Community College: Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) will proudly host its 58th commencement ceremony to celebrate the remarkable dedication and achievements of this year’s graduating Nighthawks as they fulfill their dreams of higher education.

• When: 1 p.m., Sunday, May 12.
• Where: George Mason University’s EagleBank Arena (4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax).
• Commencement Speaker: JR Bontrager, director of technology at 3D Herndon.

JR Bontrager is an inspiring example of resilience and determination. At 46, he recently returned to NOVA, where he is studying engineering while also working full time as director of technology at 3D Herndon. As this year’s commencement speaker, JR is eager to share his personal journey, hoping to inspire others to take advantage of NOVA at any age or stage in their careers. Access to continuous education, he argues, is especially crucial in today’s dynamic and ever-evolving workplace.

An artist by nature, JR has a gift for designing and crafting creative solutions. At 3D Herndon, he specializes in 3D design, printing and scanning. The company is known for its innovative projects, including:

• Adaptive prosthetics for medical use.
• Renderings of ancient bones in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution.
• Other cutting-edge product designs for a range of clients.

Beyond his work, JR is an advocate for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), a cause close to his heart due to his own battle with the condition. He loves leveraging his engineering expertise and passion for technology to improve the lives of others.

NOVA’s Commencement Ceremony:

• Will be live streamed Livestream | Northern Virginia Community College (nvcc.edu).
• Will be recorded and closed-captioned for viewing purposes.
• Will be made available on the NOVA website.

For answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the Spring 2024 Commencement page.

Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation: Mason Neck State Park will host the 26th Annual Eagle Festival on May 11 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Park staff along with many exhibitors will be on the visitor center lawn for a full day of animal shows, hands-on activities, and outdoor recreation clinics that aim to highlight the rich natural history of Northern Virginia as well as foster stewardship of our environment.

“Guests will be able to see animals such as hawks and owls up close as well as learn about the majestic bald eagles, with the hopes of seeing one in flight during the event,” said Mason Neck State Park Chief Ranger Jamie Leeuwrik,

Parking for the event this year will be located offsite at Pohick Bay Regional Park at the Pirate’s Cove Waterpark. Shuttles will be provided to and from the festival at Mason Neck State Park and will run about every 15-20 minutes from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

The family-friendly event is free and will include a variety of food vendors, musical performances, and a puppet show.

“Caroline Seitz, the star of Kids Nature Shows, puts on such a fun and interactive show for kids and adults to experience the animals they might see at the park,” said Leeuwrik. “There will be a musical performance at 11 a.m. and another at 1:45 p.m. Eagle Festival is a great way to bring together the local community for programs and activities all in the name of conservation and preservation.”

Almost 60 years ago, Elizabeth Hartwell led a successful grassroots effort to preserve more than 5,000 acres of wetland habitats on the Mason Neck Peninsula in Fairfax County. Today her legacy lives on – especially through the annual Eagle Festival at Mason Neck State Park.

This event celebrates the decades of conservation work that has taken place on the Mason Neck Peninsula. Had it not been for the work done by individuals like Hartwell, nicknamed “The Eagle Lady” and for whom the Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge is named, the area would look drastically different than it does today.