Manassas officials urge renewed regional talks after Prince William County cancels Route 28 bypass

Several council members and public speakers used the Feb. 11 meeting to respond to Prince William County’s recent vote to cancel the proposed Route 28 bypass, saying the move will increase through‑traffic and congestion within Manassas and urging renewed regional planning.

A public commenter opened the meeting by linking local congestion to the county decision, calling the bypass “the only solution offered that would have addressed that” and urging continued advocacy for the project. Councilman O'Cena echoed those concerns and said he had asked Prince William supervisors to pause final action so affected jurisdictions (Manassas, Manassas Park, Fairfax representatives and NVTA) could coordinate. O'Cena noted that council had appointed two representatives last year and that the county has now agreed to set up a committee to discuss shared services including health and social services, housing and infrastructure.

Councilman O'Cena and others framed the issue as regional—saying the source of congestion is through‑traffic generated by development outside city limits—and called for elected‑level engagement to pursue cooperative solutions. Councilman Vasquez Luna publicized an upcoming public hearing in Manassas Park related to the project and encouraged resident attendance.

Public comments later in the meeting reiterated frustration over communication and coordination between county and city officials. Council members said they will continue outreach to county supervisors and regional partners and requested opportunities to include the city in future planning discussions before final decisions are made.