A Stafford man claiming he was “monkeying around” led deputies on a high-speed pursuit, while a repeat DUI offender struck and injured a motorcyclist before fleeing the scene. In Prince William County, a firearm was brandished in a road rage incident, a teen was charged in a brutal assault, and a man was arrested in a child sex assault investigation.
DUMFRIES, Va. –Dumfries Mayor Derrick Wood recently spoke about the new development underway at the corner of Route 1 and Possum Point Road: the first-ever Wawa gas station in the town. This new business, set to open in late summer or early fall of 2025, promises to bring economic benefits to the area, marking a pivotal moment in the town’s growth and revitalization efforts.
According to Mayor Wood, this development is a key indicator that “Dumfries is open for business.” The Wawa will create over 50 jobs for the local community, with wages expected to generate an additional $1-2 million annually. The construction of the station is anticipated to bring in an economic impact of $5 to $7 million, making it a major driver of growth for the region.
Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) is proud to announce the winners of the 2024-25 Outstanding Educator Awards. These exceptional employees have demonstrated a profound commitment to the success and well-being of our educational community. This year, PWCS recognized finalists in the categories of Support Employee, Novice Teacher, Teacher, and Principal of the Year.
Each winner received a $1,500 award, sponsored by PWCS business partner, Apple Federal Credit Union.
The Citizens Transportation Advisory Committee (CTAC), a panel advising the Fredericksburg Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (FAMPO), voted 9-4 in favor of a new option, informally dubbed “CTAC Option C.” The route would use Celebrate Virginia Parkway in Stafford County and cross the river where one of the previously studied alternatives—Option D—was proposed.
During a presentation at the April 21 FAMPO Policy Committee meeting, CTAC member Al Watkins said the new route was the result of “many, many, many hours” of analysis by committee members. The preferred alternative aims to reduce environmental impacts, minimize new road construction, and improve regional traffic flow between Stafford County and the City of Fredericksburg.
DUMFRIES, Va. — The Town of Dumfries took a significant step toward shaping its economic future on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, by voting to establish a new Economic Development Authority (EDA).
The council passed an ordinance to formally establish the authority after holding a public hearing, during which no residents spoke. The EDA is intended to act as a dedicated body focused on attracting businesses, revitalizing community spaces, and investing in local development—tools the town hopes will spur growth in key areas such as Main Street and the waterfront.
Virginia health officials have confirmed the first measles case of 2025, reported in a child from the Northwest Region who had recently traveled internationally. Health officials are now working to identify anyone who may have been exposed to the disease, including individuals who visited two medical centers in Woodbridge and Fredericksburg.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) urges residents, particularly those in these areas, to check their vaccination status and seek the MMR vaccine if needed. Measles is highly contagious, but vaccination remains the best defense against the disease.
STAFFORD, Va. — A new addition is coming to Stafford County’s food scene.
Bora Bora Smoothie Cafe, a growing chain known for its smoothies, açai bowls, croffles (a hybrid of croissant and waffle), and other sweet treats, is set to open its doors at 296 Garrisonville Road in North Stafford. A banner reading “Coming Soon” now hangs on the former vape shop in the Concepts building, formerly a shoe store, located near a Home Depot.
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — Fire crews responded to two separate house fires over the weekend that left several families displaced and sent two people to the hospital.
Transportation Director Rick Canizales announced a new series of public town halls during a recent episode of the Potomac Local News podcast. The sessions, to be held throughout the county, will provide residents with an opportunity to discuss their ideas, priorities, and concerns directly with transportation planners.
“We want to know what they want to see in the future,” said Canizales. “Not just what we already have going on. This is the first step in building a transportation network that’s truly community-driven.”
HAYMARKET, Va. — The Town of Haymarket welcomed a flavorful new addition to its dining scene on Friday, April 19, with the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Himalayan Grill, located at 6624 Watts Rd, Haymarket.
Mayor TracyLynn Pater, joined by Police Chief Allen Sibert, members of the Town Council, police officers, local business owners, family, and friends, helped celebrate the occasion. The ribbon was ceremoniously cut by Mayor Pater and Aanvi Thapa, the 8-year-old daughter of owners Nepal and Anita Thapa, who are longtime Gainesville residents.
