✉️️ Opening Note
Dear Neighbors,
There is a lot to be proud of in Prince William County this week — and I mean that in the quiet, everyday way that doesn't make headlines but makes a place worth living in.
A Woodbridge teenager who spends his spare time as a working EMT was recognized in the United States Congressional Record. A local café in our own backyard earned a state tourism honor. Two independent bookstores opened their doors this spring within a few miles of each other, and both are already becoming the kind of places people linger. Meanwhile, the county made some big decisions — on schools, on land use, on what gets built and what doesn't — that will shape this corner of Virginia for years to come.
Summer is arriving ahead of schedule. It will be in the low nineties by the time this lands in your inbox Monday morning, with a dramatic cool-down midweek before the heat builds back in time for Memorial Day weekend. The farmers markets are running, the fairgrounds are coming alive, and Cooper's Hawk just opened its doors in Stonebridge.
Dom and I have it all for you below. Pour yourself something cold this week — and as always, thank you for reading.
— Marie & Dom, The Woodbridge Gazette
🌤️️ This Week's Weather
A heat wave arrives — then summer hits pause
☀️ Monday — Hi 91°F / Lo 62°F — Warm, chance of afternoon thunderstorm
☀️ Tuesday — Hi 95°F / Lo 69°F — Sunny and hot
🌧️ Wednesday — Hi 63°F / Lo 50°F — Rainy, dramatic cool-down
⛅ Thursday — Hi 72°F / Lo 49°F — Mix of sun and clouds
☀️ Friday — Hi 85°F / Lo 65°F — Partly cloudy, warming back up
🌤️ Weekend — Hi 90°F / Lo 68°F — Partly cloudy, Memorial Day heat building
Enjoy Monday and Tuesday before Wednesday's washout. Memorial Day weekend is shaping up to be a hot one.
📰 Your Weekly News Brief
Schools Funded: Board Reverses $31M Cut in Last-Minute Vote
In a closely watched budget decision, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors voted to restore full funding to the county school system for fiscal year 2027. Schools had been facing a $31 million shortfall under the County Executive's proposed budget. After hours of debate and vocal community pushback, the board voted 5–3 along party lines to set the real estate tax rate at 86.5 cents per $100 of assessed value — a move that also keeps the meals tax at 3% and ensures the school system receives a $123.5 million increase in funding over last year. The three Republican supervisors — including Woodbridge's own Jeannie LaCroix — dissented, citing concerns about insufficient tax relief for residents.
What this means for you: PWCS families can breathe easier. Programs and staffing that were at risk are now funded for the coming school year.
Kline Farm Vote: Legacy at Kline Approved
A decade in the making, the Board unanimously approved "Legacy at Kline" — a 240-unit age-restricted community on the former Kline Farm near Prince William Parkway and Liberia Avenue. The Kline family has been trying to develop the land since 2015, with earlier proposals reaching 500 units before years of community pushback whittled it down to single-family homes for active adults 55 and over. A unanimous vote suggests the compromise finally landed.
Data Center Withdrawal Near Prince William Forest Park
A planned 160-acre data center campus adjacent to Prince William Forest Park has been withdrawn — a notable reversal in a county that has been wrestling with data center growth for years. The broader Digital Gateway battle, however, continues developer QTS is appealing to the Virginia Supreme Court after two lower court rulings struck down the project's rezoning approvals. Tens of millions of dollars are at stake, and the outcome could reshape hundreds of acres of rural Prince William County.
Minnieville Road Interchange Breaks Ground
The county officially broke ground on the long-awaited Prince William Parkway and Minnieville Road Interchange project. If you've ever sat in that traffic, you know why this one matters.
Devlin Road Widening Underway in Bristow
A $74 million project to widen Devlin Road in Bristow is now underway, with completion expected by spring 2028.
Del. Maldonado Resigns from Virginia House
Delegate Michelle Maldonado (D-Manassas), who represents House District 20, has announced her resignation from the Virginia House of Delegates, effective May 31, 2026. A special election to fill her seat is expected to be announced in the coming weeks. We'll keep watching this one.
New City Attorney in Manassas
Manassas City Council appointed Robert Dawson as the city's next attorney.
🌟 Community Corner
Woodbridge Teen EMT Honored in Congressional Record
Here's the kind of story that makes you proud to be a neighbor. Avery Wise, a Woodbridge teenager and working EMT, has been formally recognized in the United States Congressional Record by Rep. Eugene Vindman (VA-7) for his outstanding community service. Wise recently earned the national Passion for Public Service Scholarship from the National Society of High School Scholars — and he's also a varsity basketball player. Rep. Vindman called Wise an inspiration. We couldn't agree more. Well done, Avery.
A Woodbridge Café Gets a Well-Deserved Nod
Down Home Comfort Café in Woodbridge has something to celebrate. The local eatery was awarded an $8,000 state tourism grant through Virginia Tourism Corp.'s Marketing Leverage Program — recognition for its culinary tourism program and, really, for being exactly the kind of place that makes this community worth visiting. Governor Abigail Spanberger announced the awards during National Travel and Tourism Week, with more than $2.2 million going to 143 local tourism programs across Virginia. Woodbridge made the list. We love to see it.
SPARKS ABA Opens New Learning Center in Woodbridge
SPARKS ABA, an autism services provider, has opened a new learning center in Woodbridge — a welcome addition for local families seeking quality autism support services close to home.
📅 Events & What's On
Poppies for Patriots Memorial Day Tribute — Tuesday May 18 | FREE
Tomorrow evening, Prince William County hosts its annual Poppies for Patriots Memorial Day tribute at the Sean T. Connaughton Community Plaza at the county government center, 1 County Complex Court in Woodbridge. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the community is invited to write the name of a fallen service member — or a message of support — on a red paper poppy. Children can color poppies to add to the growing display. Free and open to all.
📍 1 County Complex Court, Woodbridge
Free Family Movie Nights Are Coming 🎬
Prince William County Parks & Recreation hosts free outdoor movie nights throughout the summer — bring a blanket, a lawn chair, and the kids. Popcorn and water are provided. Keep an eye on pwcva.gov/parks for dates.
Spring Carnival at the Fairgrounds — May 22–31
The Prince William County Spring Carnival runs ten days at the county fairgrounds, with monster trucks, a demolition derby, a rodeo, and — if you're looking for fireworks this Memorial Day weekend — a fireworks show on May 25 at 9 p.m.
🎆 Fireworks: May 25 at 9 p.m. Admission $10 on event days (May 22–25, May 30–31); free May 26–29. Children 4 and under always free.
📍 Prince William County Fairgrounds, Manassas
Pools Open Memorial Day Weekend
County community pools and waterparks open for the season Memorial Day Weekend. Start planning.
🎆 Worth the Drive — Memorial Day Weekend
No parade in Prince William County itself this Memorial Day, but there's plenty close by for families who want to mark the day with meaning.
· Manassas National Battlefield Park — Special Memorial Day programming including a ceremony at the Patriots Monument on Henry Hill. Free and deeply meaningful given the location.
· Arlington National Cemetery — National Memorial Day Observance honoring America's fallen military service members. About 30 minutes north.
· Mount Vernon — George Washington's estate is open daily and is in the middle of its America 250 year with new exhibitions and the newly restored Washington Mansion. About 20 minutes from Woodbridge — a beautiful Memorial Day outing along the Potomac.
· Fireworks — the only confirmed local show is the Spring Carnival on May 25 at 9 p.m. at the PWC Fairgrounds.
🍷 Food & Dining
Cooper's Hawk Opens in Stonebridge
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant opens its Woodbridge doors today, Monday May 18, at Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center. Part full-service restaurant, part Napa-style tasting room, part artisan wine shop — it's one of the most anticipated openings the area has seen in a while. This is Cooper's Hawk's fourth D.C.-region location and the only one in Prince William County. Reservations recommended.
Publix Is Coming to Prince William County
The wait is nearly over for Publix fans who've been making the drive to Stafford. Publix Super Markets has signed a lease for its first Northern Virginia location right here in Prince William County — anchoring Ashland Square at the corner of Dumfries Road and Spriggs Road in the Montclair corridor. At 50,325 square feet, it's a full-size Publix, with roughly 150 local jobs coming with it. Expected opening: late 2026 or early 2027. Full story at woodbridgegazette.com
Sprouts Is Filling the Shoppers Gap in Dumfries
Another grocery win for the southern end of the county: Sprouts Farmers Market has signed on to take over the long-empty Shoppers Food Warehouse space at Fortuna Plaza in Dumfries — the same plaza as Target, Panera, and Starbucks. Think fresh produce front and center, a strong organic and bulk section, and prices that sit comfortably between a conventional grocery store and a Whole Foods. Opening planned for 2027 — Virginia's fifth Sprouts location. Full story at woodbridgegazette.com
Bourbon & Fig Opens in Tackett's Mill
A new upscale dining option has arrived in Woodbridge. Bourbon & Fig at Tackett's Mill brings a fresh, elevated energy to the local dining scene — think craft cocktails, refined Southern-influenced dishes, and a warm neighborhood atmosphere. Worth checking out.
🌿 Farmers Markets
Your 2026 Farmers Market Season Is Here
With the season now in full swing and a brand-new market just launched in Gainesville, this is the best year yet to find your Saturday morning routine. The Dale City Farmers Market — a Sunday institution since 1987 — is already running strong, and markets across the county are open from Occoquan to Haymarket to right here in Woodbridge. We've put together a complete guide to every farmers market in Prince William County, including days, times, locations, and our honest take on each one — plus a Worth the Drive pick just over the county line in Warrenton. Head to woodbridgegazette.com and grab a tote bag.
📚 Lifestyle
PWC Is Having a Bookstore Moment — Two New Indies Just Opened
If you love a good bookshop, this has been a remarkable spring for Prince William County. Two brand-new independent bookstores opened their doors on April 25, and both are worth a visit.
In Old Town Manassas, Sleepy Dragon Books brought its fantasy-forward vision to life at 9101 Center Street, right next door to the beloved Honey & Ivy. The shop carries picture books through adult fiction, with a focus on the magical and mystical. The blind date with a book packages — wrapped in kraft paper, tied with twine, and tucked with a little charm — are the most charming thing we've seen in a bookshop in years. Follow them at @sleepydragonbooksva.
Meanwhile, over in historic Occoquan, Cozy Calico Books quietly became one of the most charming new additions to Union Street. Located at 199 Union St., it's owned by Tracy Blanton — a published author of children's and YA fiction — and her husband Andy, a retired U.S. Army veteran of more than twenty years. Early visitors are raving about the thoughtful layout, the stunning chandelier, and the beautiful floral wall in the nonfiction section. It's the kind of bookstore that makes you want to linger.
Worth the Drive: Pair Cozy Calico Books with lunch in Occoquan for a perfect weekend afternoon.
🎖️ Military & Veterans
Armed Forces Day & Poppies for Patriots
This past Saturday, May 16, was Armed Forces Day — a moment set aside not for those who have fallen, but for the men and women in uniform right now, serving today. It's a distinction worth making. Memorial Day honors the sacrifice of those who gave everything. Armed Forces Day says thank you to those still giving it.
Living in Prince William County, we are never far from that service. Quantico is down the road. Fort Belvoir is up it. Many of your neighbors wear or have worn the uniform.
And if you missed Saturday, there's still a meaningful way to mark the season: tonight at 5:30 p.m., Prince William County hosts its Poppies for Patriots Memorial Day tribute at the county government center in Woodbridge. Write the name of a fallen service member on a red paper poppy and add it to the wall. A simple act. A powerful one.
If you know a veteran or Gold Star family who would like to be recognized at a community event this Memorial Day season, reach out to us at [email protected].
Honoring service. Covering community.
— Dom
🔭 Coming Up Next Week
And because summer isn't summer without it — our guide to the best ice cream in Prince William County is coming next week.
A full first look at Cozy Calico Books and Sleepy Dragon Books — two independent bookstores that opened this spring in Prince William County — more on the special election to fill Del. Maldonado's seat, and Memorial Day coverage. As always, if you have a tip or a story worth telling, reach us at [email protected].
And mark your calendars now: Occoquan RiverFest & Craft Show is coming up June 6–7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in historic downtown Occoquan. Free admission, hundreds of artisans, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, pontoon boat tours on the river, and a rubber duck race on Sunday afternoon. One of the best weekends of the summer in Prince William County — and we'll have the full preview in the weeks ahead.
💛 Until Next Monday
That's your Gazette for this week. If you have a tip, an event to share, or a neighbor worth spotlighting, we want to hear from you. Hit reply or drop us a line at [email protected].
See you next Monday.
Marie Buckley
Publisher & Editor · The Woodbridge Gazette
Your weekly neighbor along the Potomac.
Domenic Clementi
Military & Veterans Editor · The Woodbridge Gazette
Honoring service. Covering community.
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P.S. Yes, that's a golden retriever stealing someone's ice cream cone. Our guide to the best ice cream in Prince William County is coming next week — and we found spots that welcome four-legged customers too. 🍦🐾
The Woodbridge Gazette · woodbridgegazette.com · [email protected]
Serving Woodbridge, Manassas, Occoquan, Dale City, Dumfries, and surrounding Prince William County communities.