Fredericksburg

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The Fredericksburg Planning Commission has unanimously rejected the proposed 1500 Gateway data center project at I-95 and Route 3, siding with residents who raised concerns about water, power, trees, and neighborhood impacts.


Fredericksburg

“I am incredibly excited to be joining the Fredericksburg City Schools family,” Fredericksburg City Public Schools announced. “I believe that every learner, educator, and school can grow, and I am excited to be a part of the next phase of academic growth in Fredericksburg City.” “We are pleased to welcome Dr. Albon to the FCPS family,” Superintendent Dr. Marci Catlett said. “He understands the importance of educating all students to reach their fullest potential.”

Dr. Brendon Albon, a veteran education leader with more than 25 years of experience, will assume the role of Chief Academic Officer on December 15, 2025. He previously served as Assistant Superintendent for the Virginia Department of Education, where he led statewide school-support initiatives and earlier held roles in STEM and innovation, school leadership, and classroom instruction. The appointment follows the School Board’s approval and reflects the division’s focus on instructional excellence and continued academic growth.


Manassas

“Electra doesn’t have ‘the complication others face of going through a still untested certification pathway,’” Aerospace America reported. “This [Part 23] is a certification pathway that’s well understood, and we have a team that’s gone through that pathway dozens and dozens of times.” “That rewrite of Part 23 is going to significantly facilitate our pathway through certification, just as the FAA intended,” the outlet added.

Electra has submitted its application to certify the nine-seat EL9 for commercial and military use and has expanded its footprint at Manassas Regional Airport, where it is building its first aircraft and displaying a full-size mockup. Flight tests are planned to begin in 2027, followed by three prototypes for FAA pilot evaluations. The EL9 is designed for ultra-short takeoffs and landings enabled by blown-lift aerodynamics, and the company is evaluating a future manufacturing site to support mass production.


Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is preparing to release a $6 million holdback in the current fiscal-year budget after city staff reported stronger-than-expected revenues and a stable local economy.

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Prince William

Brentsville District School Board member Erica Tredinnick is defending her work for a firm tied to the Prince William Digital Gateway, saying she follows Virginia conflict-of-interest laws and will not apologize for “earning a living” in real estate development.

Tredinnick issued a written statement after an interview on Potomac Local News’ “PLN on YouTube,” where Prince William County School Board Chairman Dr. Babur Lateef downplayed concerns about her employment with LSI Communications.


Business

With tourism emerging as one of Stafford County’s fastest-growing economic sectors, local officials are bringing businesses together this winter to talk about how to turn more visitors into customers.

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Traffic

Drivers in Stafford County should plan for a detour on Rock Hill Church Road next week as the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) prepares for a major bridge project.

A portion of Route 644 (Rock Hill Church Road) will close at Aquia Creek from 9 a.m. Wednesday, December 17, through the morning of Monday, December 22, while crews remove trees. The work is part of preparations for a bridge replacement scheduled to begin in summer 2026.


Manassas

The Manassas City Council moved one step closer to bringing commercial passenger service to Manassas Regional Airport, securing several foundational approvals that will enable the airport to expand operations and welcome regional carriers in the coming years.

The actions taken during the December 8 council meeting mark a significant milestone in a multi-year effort to transform the city-owned airport from a general aviation hub into a limited-commercial-service facility.


Manassas

“A big round of applause and congratulations to all of the winners announced of this year’s 79th Greater Manassas Christmas Parade,” Greater Manassas Christmas Parade announced. “Everyone did an amazing job bringing ‘Elfin’ Around Old Town’ to life with their floats, routines and decorations!”

“Our awards ceremony will be held on Monday, January 12th at 6:00pm at City Hall! If you are a winner mentioned below, please join us to accept your trophy and certificate.”