The possibilities for the region are endless.
Economic development was the focus of the a Woodbridge event.
The Prince William Chamber of Commerce hosted its Future of the Region at Old Hickory Golf Club on Tuesday
Manassas Mayor Hal Parrish, Manassas Park Mayor Jeanette Rishell and Board of County Supervisors (BOCS) Chairman Corey Stewart spoke about local success and potential growth opportunities.
Stewart gave an overview of changes that have occurred in the county.
“When we look back at Prince William County over the past 15 years, we see a community that is almost completely transformed,” he said.
The BOCS has focused on public safety by building and renovating several fire stations. It has provided millions of dollars in funding to the school district, as well.
Prince William County, Stewart added, has obstacles officials must address.
“We continue to grow,” he said. “We have a very high quality of life, a very safe community. With economic growth, that means population growth.”
Future of the Region attendees gained insight on the City of Manassas through a video that was presented.
It covered area projects, including Micron Technology’s $3 billion expansion and the growth of Aurora Flight Sciences.
The video also provided details about the Landing at Cannon Branch, a mixed-use development, and a new hotel that officials will break ground on this year.
During her speech, Rishell focused on the potential impact of the space industry, which could grow to $1.1 trillion by 2040.
“Whatever the eventual size of the space sector, it has revenue potential for all of our localities,” she said.
Many daily activities are connected to space, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) use and the authorization of credit cards.
As the use of data increases, so will the need for satellites.
Space commercialization will lead to “spin-off technologies” and the creation of various goods and services, Rishell explained.
“We should be thinking about this so that we can be alert for opportunities,” she added.
