The Planning side of the Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) Planning and Capital Projects Division recently partnered with staff from the Department of Transportation and Planning Department to host a public forum to collect input and feedback on the County-wide Trails Master Plan. The Staff Team updated residents on progress made on drafting the plan since the last public meeting and then invited those in attendance to identify priorities for both recreational trails and shared-use paths by magisterial district. This feedback will be used along with other rating criteria and Trails and Blueways Council recommendations to create an overall prioritization of trail segments to include in the plan. The County-wide Trails Master Plan is a wonderful example of the work of the team and is being conducted without consultant assistance.
This is just one of many ways DPR reaches out for input and feedback from residents. Results are collected and used to inform decisions made relating programs, services, and capital projects. A well-rounded system of evaluation is in place across several divisions of DPR that collects feedback on programs-some during the program-to allow for adjustment mid-program, and most following the conclusion of the activity to inform changes to the next similar offering.
More Items of Interest
Countywide Trails Master Plan Survey: The public survey for the Countywide Trails Master Plan was available through November 10 in English and Spanish. The Countywide Trails Master Plan Survey was designed to help guide the future development and improvement of Prince William County’s public land and water trail system. Whether residents are paddlers, hikers, cyclists, runners, or just those who enjoy a peaceful walk outdoors, their input is essential. This survey was a chance to share how residents use trails, what improvements they would like to see, and what new connections or features would enhance the trails experience.
Chinn Aquatic and Fitness Center Progress: The project planned to replace the bulkhead and white coat in the Chinn Aquatic and Fitness Center natatorium is on schedule for completion this month.
Cotton Mill Drive Trail Expansion at Lake Ridge Park: Work began this month to construct the Cotton Mill Road Trail at Lake Ridge Park.
Occoquan Greenway:
- Segment 2 – Completed and opened to the public.
- Segment 6 – Construction bidding advertisement is scheduled for December.
- Segment 7 – Temporarily on hold. A meeting with Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association (LRPRA) is needed to discuss the trail alignments and finalize scope for the small water crossings.
- Segment 8 – 100% of design documents have been submitted to VDOT for review. Construction is scheduled for February 2027. Work includes entrance improvement to segment 8 trail, construction of retaining wall, and sidewalk along Union Street.
Powells Creek Crossing: The architectural / engineering consultant developing the 35% design documents for the Powells Creek Crossing is continuing work.
Boathouse Feasibility Study: The consultant team for the Boathouse Feasibility Study has completed analysis of participation numbers and is working to formulate recommendations. Staff has worked with the VASRA (state crew organization) president and the county crew representatives and conducted a site visit at the Oxford Boathouse. A report is expected by the end of the calendar year.
FY27 Capital Improvement Project (CIP): Requests have been submitted to the Office of Management and Budget for both Board and Department requests. A new Steering Committee comprised of staff from all four quadrants will be scoring projects for prioritization for funding recommendations in the next two weeks.
Pump Track at Rollins Ford Park Opening: The pump track was formally opened on Saturday, November 15. The Parks Foundation and donors celebrated with attendees and held a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Annual Holiday Walk of Lights: Staff is gearing up for the Annual Holiday Walk of Lights. The public will be invited to stroll through a sparkling winter wonderland filled with thousands of twinkling lights at the Neabsco Regional Park and Boardwalk. In addition to the dazzling light display, visitors will experience the magic of the holiday season with visits from holiday characters and a holiday shopping experience on select nights. The display opens December 4. Dates and times are on the DPR website.
DPR App Available: Residents are encouraged to keep informed by downloading the DPR app (now filterable by districts). Up-to-date information is also available through the CIP dashboard.