Board backs judicial center plan; authorizes demolition planning and memorial study for Bennett School

Prince William County supervisors voted 7–1 on July 21 to approve a change order that advances design and consultant work for the county's new judicial center and authorizes studies on how to memorialize the Bennett School if demolition proceeds. The board’s action directs staff to complete remediation and geotechnical analyses and to return renderings and memorial options to the board.

County capital construction staff told supervisors that the current phase is a change order authorizing consultants to evaluate memorial options and to carry out hazardous‑materials remediation. Rick Cannizzales, director of the Department of Transportation and Capital Construction, said crews have found asbestos, lead paint and mold during initial inspections and that, “if we’re able to take the building down from what we know right now … it would take about a year to demolish,” with geotech or archeological discoveries potentially adding six to 30 months. Eric Bruner, assistant director of capital construction, said that if human remains or significant artifacts are found, federal and state processes — including Army and federal consultation — could extend the timeline to two to three years.

Supporters of the judicial center argued the county lacks courtroom, clerk and secure space required under state law, and that delays risk undermining court operations. “We have very little space on the courthouse,” Supervisor Gordy said during debate, adding that if saving Bennett School proved infeasible the county should preserve architectural elements and memorialize the building. Several supervisors and community members urged thorough outreach and transparency with the City of Manassas and preservation stakeholders. Supervisor Stewart cast the lone vote against the motion, expressing continued reservations about demolishing a culturally significant structure in a way that protects buried graves and the county’s historic record.

The board’s motion instructs staff to proceed with the change order and to return to the board with consultant findings — both technical (hazardous materials, geotech) and design (memorial alternatives). Staff emphasized they will notify the board immediately if archeological or human remains are discovered and will follow state and federal law in that event.