On Tuesday, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors approved a $16 million land purchase in Woodbridge.
The discussion centered on the property at 13505 Telegraph Road, located just off Interstate 95. The county had planned to build a large indoor track and recreational facility on the land to serve the Washington, D.C., region and travel teams from the East Coast. However, the county will not proceed with that plan, at least for now.
Coles District Supervisor Yesli Vega raised concerns about the transparency of the issue, noting that the support for a track facility was not unanimous initially but has now been described as a "possible" facility in the resolution.
Vega questioned whether the land purchase was intended for this purpose. Chair At-large DeShundra Jefferson clarified that the discussion was solely about purchasing the land and that a public forum was necessary before deciding its use. Despite this, Vega continued to challenge the resolution language.
In an interview, Jefferson told Potomac Local she's uncomfortable with the annual operating costs, which could top over $4 million. Jefferson cited the need for private investment, potentially creating a public-private partnership.
Weir strongly opposed the proposal, describing it as ill-conceived, and criticized the expenditure as "throwing more good money after bad." Weir voiced discomfort with what he termed "land speculation" at this level and disapproved of the timing of the 150-day study completed at the end of the previous board's term.
Occoquan District Supervisor Kenny Boddye defended the project, emphasizing its significance to the district. He highlighted its proximity to high-end retail, commuter parking, HOV lanes, and a potential transit hub, asserting that land acquisition is crucial to securing the county’s vision.
The proposal for the indoor track complex dates back to 2018. It aims to establish the first indoor sports facility in the region on two levels with a mezzanine, a hydraulic bank track, 20 pickleball courts, and ample seating. There would be room for 3,500 during sporting events and 6,800 seats that could be used for high school graduations.
In addition, the facility, at 13505 Telegraph Road, could host trade shows, expos, and community events, county staff told supervisors during a presentation in May 2024. Officials have emphasized that the facility would spur new retail and restaurants along the Prince William Parkway/Interstate 95 corridor in Woodbridge, more overnight hotel stays, and increased local sales tax collection by $1.5 million.