HAYMARKET, Va. – The Haymarket-Gainesville Kiwanis Club has proposed installing a Little Free Library in the town park near the bulletin board, a plan shared during the Haymarket Town Council work session on May 27, 2025.

Carl Davis and Terry Flight, representing the Kiwanis Club, introduced the idea to councilmembers as part of the club’s mission to support literacy and education in the community. “We’re just starting and we want to start with Haymarket,” said Flight, noting that the club is just two and a half years old. “Our focus is on children and families, health and nutrition, education and literacy, and youth leadership development.”

The proposed Little Free Library would feature a structure two levels high and two books deep to maximize book capacity. Built with durable materials like PVC to minimize maintenance, the library would be designed and constructed by Scout Troop 1882, which the club sponsors. The build may also qualify as an Eagle Scout project.

“The Kiwanis Club will fund the project and handle the ongoing maintenance,” Flight explained. “We’ll regularly check and restock the books. It says ‘take a book, leave a book,’ but mostly they just take.”

To ensure proper installation and safety, the club requested that a town staff member or licensed contractor complete the physical installation. “We don’t want the Boy Scouts to install it. We’d prefer a qualified town employee or a class A contractor to ensure it’s done to standard and avoids any liability,” Flight added.

Councilmembers expressed strong support for the initiative. One member, who works in children’s literacy, praised the idea: “I love the idea of getting books into any child’s hands.” Council and town staff agreed the park is a suitable and visible location, especially with its regular use by local families and children.

Emily Kyriazi, the town manager, noted that the town already has a small Little Free Library near the museum, which is frequently used. She said the park location would serve as a complementary addition and recommended installing it near the existing bulletin board. She also confirmed that the proposed installation could proceed under administrative approval, avoiding the need for review by the Architectural Review Board, as long as it follows the town’s preferred color scheme.

Flight noted that the project could be completed in mid-to-late fall 2025, given the Scouts’ current summer commitments.

The Council concluded the discussion by agreeing to allow town staff to work directly with the Kiwanis Club to finalize the details and move the project forward.

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – Speed cameras are here to stay outside schools and highway work zones in Prince William County.

The Board of County Supervisors voted 7–1 on June 3, 2025, to make permanent the use of automated photo-monitoring systems aimed at catching speeding drivers in high-risk areas. The decision removes a sunset clause from the 2023 pilot program and allows enforcement to continue indefinitely.

County officials say the cameras are working as intended. In monitored zones, the average speed of drivers dropped by 3 to 6 mph—a statistically significant improvement that’s helping protect children and workers on busy roads. There’s also been no increase in crashes where the cameras are in use.

Cameras Already Watching These School Zones

As of now, speed enforcement cameras are operating at the following locations:

• Battlefield High School – Route 15
• Woodbridge High School – Old Bridge Road
• Old Bridge Elementary School – Old Bridge Road
• Fitzgerald Elementary School – Benita Fitzgerald Drive
• Patriot High School – Kettle Run Road
• T. Clay Wood Elementary School – Kettle Run Road

More sites are expected to be announced in the coming months. County staff say all camera locations will be clearly marked with signage.

Here’s What to Expect if You’re Caught Speeding

Drivers going 10 mph or more over the speed limit in an active school or work zone can be fined up to $100. The violation is a civil penalty—it won’t impact your insurance or driving record unless a police officer issues a traditional ticket.

Citations are mailed to the vehicle owner. If someone else was driving, the owner can contest the citation. All images are reviewed and certified by law enforcement before a summons is issued.

Not About the Money, Officials Say

Supervisors backing the measure said the program is about saving lives, not generating revenue.

“This isn’t about the money—it’s about saving a life,” said Supervisor Victor Angry, who also pushed for higher fines. “People run through those red lights… clearly 30 seconds after they’ve turned red.”

Supervisor Kenny Boddye reminded colleagues that the program started after several fatal crashes, especially on Cardinal Drive. “Our officers can’t be everywhere at once,” he said.

Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin, who initially opposed the cameras, said public feedback changed her mind. “They’re happy we’re taking proactive steps,” she said.

Supervisor Andrea Bailey added, “This is our answer… to make sure we’re addressing what’s going on in the community.”

Supervisor Bob Weir was the only vote against the ordinance.

The system is managed by Elovate, formerly Conduent, under a county contract approved in December 2023. The company is paid for its services—not by the number of tickets issued—to avoid any incentive to over-ticket.

All data collected is strictly regulated. It can’t be used for marketing, and all photos must be deleted within 60 days unless a summons has been issued.

While only six school zones currently have cameras, the program allows for expansion. County officials say additional sites will be rolled out, with public notice, in the near future.

“This is about sending a message,” Angry said. “If you’re speeding in our school zones, there will be consequences.”

HAYMARKET, Va. – Town leaders are weighing a major redevelopment proposal that could transform the historic property at 14600 Washington Street—the former Gainesville District School building later used by PACE West—into a new residential and commercial enclave.

The concept, presented by Greystone Companies during a May 27 Town Council work session, outlines a plan to build up to 62 townhomes alongside a scaled-back commercial footprint. The 4.9-acre site is currently zoned B1 (General Commercial) and houses several businesses, including Phoenix Hospitality’s Ghosted Concepts, federal contractor QBE, and the Haymarket Islamic Center, which received approval in April 2025 to establish a permanent place of worship there.

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HAYMARKET, Va. – The Town of Haymarket is taking the next step on long-planned improvements to its civic campus following a presentation of the Town Hall Site Plan during the Town Council work session on May 27, 2025. Council members gave the green light to move forward with both exterior and interior upgrades, which have been in the works for several years.

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HAYMARKET, Va. – The Haymarket Town Council voted Monday night to adopt the town’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget and set the new real estate tax rate, concluding weeks of deliberation that included resident impact assessments and internal reviews of capital priorities.

The council unanimously approved three key resolutions during its June 2 meeting:

• Resolution 2025-006 amended the current fiscal year’s budget to reflect interest reallocation that will fund upcoming council and administrative expenses. This ensures year-end revenues are directed toward planned municipal operations and projects.

• Resolution 2025-003 established the town’s real estate tax rate at $0.098 per $100 of assessed value, a decrease from last year’s $0.105. Despite the lower rate, many residents will see slight increases in their tax bills due to rising home assessments by Prince William County. The rate was advertised and reviewed in public meetings, as required by state law.

• Resolution 2025-007 approved the FY2026 operating and capital improvement budget, which funds all town services from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. Budget priorities include public safety, staff operations, planning, and capital projects like Town Hall site upgrades and infrastructure improvements. The resolution also affirmed the adoption process complied with Virginia Code.

Before the vote, council members examined how the tax rate would affect different neighborhoods. Some homeowners will see minor reductions, but those with recently renovated homes or higher market valuations may face increases averaging $5 to $8.

The council also addressed future service costs, especially for trash collection, which is expected to rise due to contractual hikes and the return of county tipping fees. The adopted budget anticipates these pressures while continuing investment in infrastructure and community amenities.

HAYMARKET, Va. – The Town of Haymarket is hosting a K–5 Open House on Friday, June 13, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Town Hall. 🎨

In a Facebook post, town officials invited local families for a day of discovery and fun. Kids will enjoy story time with the Town Council, create tie-dye crafts, explore Haymarket’s history, and participate in activities hosted by local groups, including Crossroads Arts Alliance. A touch-a-truck experience and more surprises are also planned.

The event is free and open to children of all ages, though activities are primarily geared toward those in kindergarten through fifth grade. Siblings and families are welcome.

Memorial Day 🇺🇸 is more than just the unofficial start of summer — it’s a time to come together as a community and honor those who gave it all for our freedom.

This year, Willing Warriors is pulling out all the stops to celebrate 10 incredible years of providing a “Home Away From Home” for our nation’s wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families. Since 2015, the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run has welcomed over 2,800 warriors and their loved ones, helping them relax, reconnect, and recharge — all thanks to the generosity of community members like YOU.

🎈 Join Us for the 10th Anniversary Celebration & Memorial Day Ceremony

📅 Monday, May 26, 2025
🕚 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
📍 Warrior Retreat at Bull Run, Haymarket, Virginia

What’s Happening:

• 🍔 Picnic on the Grounds with local food truck favorites
• 🏡 Tours of Our Beautiful Retreat Homes
• 🎲 Fun & Games for All Ages
• 🎤 Inspiring Remarks from Co-Founders Shirley and John Dominick
• 🧱 Memorial Brick Laying Ceremony honoring fallen heroes from WWII to today
• 🎺 Taps & Moment of Silence — a powerful tribute to those we’ll never forget

This family-friendly event is your chance to experience the magic of the Warrior Retreat, meet the incredible people behind the mission, and reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day.

🌟 About Willing Warriors

Willing Warriors is a community-supported nonprofit that provides cost-free, six-day retreat stays and life-changing programs for recovering warriors and their families. From canine therapy and fishing trips to five-star meals by professional chefs, every experience at the Warrior Retreat is designed to heal both body and soul. Nestled on 37 peaceful acres at the foot of the Bull Run Mountains, this special place exists because of supporters like YOU.

💻 Learn more at willingwarriors.org

The Haymarket Town Council will once again take up the topic of a proposed Islamic center at its meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025.

We previously reported incorrect information that the council would discuss the expansion of the Chick-fil-A drive-through at this meeting. However, the Chick-fil-A expansion was already approved earlier this month under conditions: the restaurant must obtain sign-off from all necessary regulatory bodies, including the Prince William County Fire Marshal’s Office, which currently opposes the plan.

The council’s upcoming discussion will instead focus on the Special Use Permit (SUP) application for the proposed Islamic Center at 14600 Washington Street, submitted by Mohammed Kasim Gul. The project aims to convert part of the old Pace West school building into a permanent place of worship for the local Muslim community, sharing the building with federal contractor QBE.

During a work session on March 31, the council and town staff reviewed key concerns raised at a March 3 public hearing, including parking availability, traffic circulation, pedestrian safety, and occupancy limits.

A parking plan estimates that about 198 to 201 spaces could be striped on the existing lot, although staff cautioned that some spaces may be unusable due to tight drive aisles and parked trailers. The lot has not been restriped since 2013, leading to uncertainty about its true capacity.

Occupancy regulations were also discussed. Under Prince William County guidelines, assembly use for more than 49 people would trigger requirements for additional exits and potentially the installation of a fire alarm or sprinkler system. Final occupancy will depend on a detailed review of the building’s layout.

Another major concern was the absence of an updated site plan. The previous plan for improvements expired without being bonded, and council members expressed hesitation about approving the SUP without a current and accurate plan showing marked parking spaces and loading zones.

The proposal also calls for a police presence during peak traffic periods, such as Friday prayers and Ramadan, similar to arrangements made for other religious institutions along Washington Street.

The Islamic Center proposal has received strong community support, with more than 70 emails submitted in favor and numerous residents speaking positively at the March 3 public hearing. Still, concerns remain regarding potential traffic congestion on Route 55 and the impact on neighboring businesses.

The proposed center would serve residents who currently travel 20 to 30 minutes to the nearest mosque, providing a local space for daily and Friday prayers.

HAYMARKET, Va. — The Haymarket Town Council is set to revisit a controversial Chick-fil-A drive-through expansion proposal during its upcoming work session on Monday, April 28, 2025, as questions remain about the project's approval from key regulatory agencies.

Earlier this month, the council narrowly approved Special Use Permit (SUP) #2024-001 in a 4-0 vote, allowing the Chick-fil-A at 15186 Washington Street to proceed with a revised site plan known as “Exhibit 6.” The updated plan proposes extending the restaurant’s rightmost drive-through lane onto an adjacent property owned by Virginia National Bank, creating a bypass lane and adding a mobile order pickup point aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing wait times.

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