Controversial Bi-County Parkway project appears to be off the table

VDOT is not actively working on the Bi-County Parkway including pursuing the Programmatic Agreement or the environmental approvals from the Federal Highway Administration, according to a recent letter.

In effect, the letter presents a significant roadblock to this project that sought to close Rt. 234 and traffic calm Rt. 29 through the Manassas National Battlefield Park, which would have affected hundreds of homeowners and businesses including the historic Sudley Methodist Church, according to Del. Tim Hugo, one of the projects major opponents.

Hugo was quoted as saying in a news release, “For over two years, this has been a hard fought battle to stop an ill-conceived transportation project that would add thousands of cars onto I-66, worsening traffic congestion from Arlington to Fauquier. I am pleased that VDOT has shifted its focus to those transportation projects that will provide the most relief for Northern Virginia’s commuters and improve Virginia’s transportation infrastructure. ”

The letter states that the General Assembly has enacted legislation that significantly changes how projects will be debated and funded. The letter further states that the Bi-County Parkway is subject to that criteria and would go through both the evaluation and funding process before it could move forward.

Said Delegate Hugo, “Make no mistake, this is a huge victory for those of us who are in opposition to this road. During this past General Assembly session, I held numerous meetings with VDOT staff requesting this letter so that we could remove the cloud that has been hanging over western Prince William homeowners and businesses for over two years.

“This letter from VDOT should clarify to everyone involved that this project is not going to move forward as it is currently configured. If the project were ever considered for future development, the process would have to largely begin anew. The next step to ensure that this road is not built would be for the Prince William Board of County Supervisors to remove the Bi-County from their Comprehensive Plan.”

In conclusion, Delegate Hugo stated, “I would like to thank those who have toiled over this issue, spent time away from their families, and spent personal resources trying to maintain the Rural Crescent and the quality of life that so many in western Prince William County hold dear. This undertaking has been a model case for citizen involvement in addressing community concerns and taking those concerns to one’s elected officials.

While few will ever know of the thousands of hours spent in combating this flawed project, many will see the benefits of our combined efforts. Together, we have made a difference and it has been my honor and privilege to work alongside all those involved.”