The Prince William County Board of Supervisors are set to hear from residents and community stakeholders during a public hearing on Tuesday, March 16th at 7:30PM for the Independent Hill Small Area Plan which is located in the area known as the Rural Crescent. The Independent Hill Plan sets the stage for the county’s rural areas to be used for smart growth including housing diversity, career opportunities, and the preservation of open space and community engagement.

Last December, The Prince William County Planning Commission ultimately did not pass a motion to recommend the plan and it failed with a 5-3 vote. Prince William Forest Park’s Superintendent Tanya Gossett voiced her concerns that development within Prince William County’s rural areas would have long lasting impacts to the native plant species, could result in loss of habitats, and possibly make an increase to the existing stormwater runoff. The scope of this plan includes the edges of Prince William Forest Park, an area protected by the U.S. National Park service.

Several Democratic Supervisors have expressed their support for the smart development of Prince William County’s rural spaces otherwise known as the Rural Crescent. “This is a big change. But this is a big solution as well. If we want to serve at a higher level and make sure that we are creating a commercial tax base and not tax our citizens, this is an opportunity to do that,” Vice-Chair Andrea Bailey stated. 

Supervisor Kenny Boddye shared that he would like to see Prince William County progress in this way, but it is important to ensure that we do it “in a thoughtful way where we’re not rushing towards the goal without having a good road map in mind.”

On the other hand, there are those who are hesitant about moving forward in this way. Efforts are currently being organized for a rally, car caravan, and individuals are working to ensure many residents show up to speak at Citizen’s Time to protect the Rural Crescent from any sort of development. On the forefront of their concerns are environmental impact and integrity, the harm of new sewers and cable lines, and preserving Prince William County’s greenspaces. 

To voice your thoughts or concerns to the Prince William County Board of Supervisors, you may email the entire Board at bocs@pwcgov.org or speak in-person at the public hearing held at the James McCoart Building by signing up to speak when you arrive, or by visiting the sign up page.