NEIGHBORHOOD Welcome to our neighborhood information page! Here at the Bridges Team we love to live, work and play in our beautiful Virginia communities. We have always believed that the first step to finding the perfect home is finding the perfect community to fit your needs, your style and your family. Below you will find valuable information on the many Counties and Cities we are proud to serve. From parks and recreation to jobs and education, you'll find everything you need to know in this one simple source. If you happen to have any further questions about our service area feel free to contact us and we'll be happy to provide you with any information you may need. Enjoy!
Our Counties “Prince William County is a premier community where we treasure our past and the promise of our future. We are diverse and dynamic with a thriving economy where citizens and businesses grow and succeed together. We are a global leader for the 21st century.” Prince William County is an area rich in history and tradition. A vital part of this history includes committed citizens working together to make Prince William County a better place to live, work, play and raise a family.
Prince William County, named for the second son of King George II of England, was established in 1731 and was originally about 2,000 square miles in area. By 1759, the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Fauquier and Loudoun had been carved from it, leaving an area of some 348 square miles today. The areas of Manassas and Manassas Park add 8.1 square miles and 1.7 square miles, respectively, to the total.
The County is situated in northern Virginia and is bounded by the Potomac River to the east, Fairfax and Loudoun Counties to the north, Fauquier County to the west and southwest, and Stafford County to the south.
Prince William County ranks as the third largest jurisdiction in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The number of residents in the County has increased steadily since the 1950's. The following table charts the growth and its expected continuation through the year 2020.
Jobs, Economy and Commerce Prince William offers several advantages to locating or expanding your business within the County. These include a highly educated work force, fast track permitting, location and much more. These advantages, along with the vision and support of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors, have strengthened the County’s pro-business environment and continue to confirm its position as a primary center for business and technology in the Washington metropolitan area. The County has made great strides in creating better job opportunities, decreasing the County’s dependency on real estate and sales tax, and improving the overall quality of life for County residents.
The Prince William County Park Authority maintains a number of parks to serve your needs. Whether you'd like a picnic, fishing, golfing, playgrounds or just an all-around good time outdoors, come see what we have for you: To view a complete listing of all the Parks in Prince William County, visit the official Park Authority Web site. With so many parks to chose from including Veterans Memorial Park, Locust Shade Park, Hammill Mill Park, James Long Park, Nokesville Park, plus about 50 more parks available to you, you're sure to find the right park for you, near you.
Prince William County Public Schools, its programs, administration, staff and students are often singled out by regional, state, and national organizations. Newsweek ranked seven Prince William County high schools among the top 1,000 schools in the United States. Prince William County Public Schools' enrollment on September 30, 2005, was 68,234 pupils, making it the third largest School Division in the state. The average class size for elementary school is 17.2 students; for middle school, 21.4; and for high school, 21.1 students. There are currently 51 elementary schools, 13 middle schools, ten high schools, four special education schools, two alternative schools, and two traditional schools. The elementary schools house kindergarten through fifth grade, the middle schools have grades six through eight, and the high schools include grades nine through twelve.
County Links
Stafford County Stafford is closely linked to Fredericksburg. Three large military installations are nearby and the area is home to several major companies.
Over the past five years, Stafford County has had a comparatively rapid growth rate. Growth for the past few years had been a brisk 4.1% and doesn't show signs of slowing. Stafford real estate is in great demand due to the presence of Homeland Security and Department of Defense employees transferred to the Northern Virginia area from all over the country.
Homes in Stafford County do not reach the price ranges of Fairfax or Prince William County real estate. You get a lot of value and quality of life for your money in Stafford County real estate. The lot sizes, amenities, location, floor plans, elevation, landscaping and most of all, THE PRICES will exceed all expectations. Expect to find 3,500 to 4,000 square feet in these exceptional homes. They will be situated on lots of an acre or more or 1/3 acre in golf course communities and up to 3 acres in other communities throughout the county. Stafford County is the real estate location of choice for an increasing number of corporate executives. Builders recognized the need for luxury homes several years ago and communities such as: Aquia Harbour, Augustine North, Estates At Deacon Hill, Manorwood Estates, Poplar Hills, Potomac Creek Estates, Ravenwood, Seven Lakes.
Stafford County real estate is not the only sector of the economy to respond to the needs of the residents. Stafford County is Virginia's second fastest growing economy (after Loudoun). Major employees are locating in Stafford and to further this benefit, Stafford County offers airport facilities with a 5,000 foot runway designed to appeal to the corporate traveler and local distribution and warehouse operations. Opened in 1991, the airport is located between Mountain View and Courthouse Road, the location is convenient to all areas of the county.
Stafford's enviable reputation for outstanding schools at every level is an important reason why so many families have moved here in recent years. Although our schools have experienced rapid growth, the locality has maintained its commitment to educational excellence by providing the necessary facilities, professional staff and supplies. This commitment is evidenced in the following statistics and can be underscored by a visit to any of our schools: Educating the "total child". Stafford students learn skills which prepare them to live in a global and interdependent world through a multicultural focus which is integrated into the curriculum. Students are given opportunities to explore, understand, and appreciate the diversity of race, religion and ethnicity.
As one of the largest and fastest growing counties in the Commonwealth, Spotsylvania has been dealing with expanding growth while attempting to keep taxes down. Constructions, as well as improved county facilities, are also planned for the future. The county's location along the I-95 corridor between Washington, D.C. and Richmond makes it attractive to business and industry. This, along with the scenic beauty of Lake Anna, has contributed to its new growth. Spotsylvania County is closely linked to the City of Fredericksburg, which is actually part of the county, but politically independent. Nearly half of the county's residents commute to the DC area or to Richmond. Spotsylvania County's 407 square miles are still largely rural, but suburbia is spreading outward from the Fredericksburg city line.
Founded in 1720 from the merger of Essex, King and Queen and King William counties, Spotsylvania was named after former Governor Alexander Spotswood. It is probably best known as the location of several major Civil War battles, including the Battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse, one of the bloodiest of the war. Currently the county covers some 400 square miles, making it one of the largest counties in the Commonwealth. The current population in Spotsylvania is just over 90,000 people and growing daily with a median income of around $53,000. For more about the history, click here for links and a list of historical places to visit.
The county seat is located in the Courthouse area, where State Routes 208 and 613 intersect. Spotsylvania now has 7 members on its Board of Supervisors. Board members serve 4 year terms and appoint a county administrator who carries out day-to-day operations. The board members voted for a 33% raise which took effect Jan. 1, 2000, bringing the annual salary to $20,000 for each member.
The County of Spotsylvania has 16 Elementary, 6 Middle and 4 High Schools, plus one vocational school. Just click here to visit links to each of the schools, report card profiles for each school, School summary by grade and ethnicity, the School Board, Staff Rosters, SOL Scores and links to the administration of the school.
The Spotsylvania County Parks and Recreation Department’s mission is to provide and manage a variety of leisure activities and facilities that will promote personal growth, physical fitness, and recreational needs to fulfill the desires of Spotsylvania County residents. From skiing and skating to biking and boating. You’ll find that Spotsylvania has something to keep everyone busy, including local amusement parks, annual county fairs and many other exciting recreational opportunities. To find out more visit the County's Official parks and recreation page here. County Links
Fairfax County is a community that sits at the crossroads of America's history and its future. Established in the mid-1700s, Fairfax County was home to two of America's boldest visionaries, George Washington and George Mason. From their homes at Mount Vernon and Gunston Hall, these men helped lead a Revolution against tyranny and repression. They led with the force of their ideas and convictions, and in the process helped create what is perhaps the most revolutionary force on earth: a representative democracy. More than 200 years later, the Republic which they helped found still stands, serving as a beacon of freedom and opportunity to the entire world. So, also, does the county they called home. Located just minutes from Washington, D.C., Fairfax County possesses an unparalleled bounty of economic, historical, cultural and recreational resources.
Fairfax County and the Washington metropolitan area boast a broad variety of homes, locations and prices. Housing is available for individuals seeking an urban, suburban, small town or country feel. High-rise apartments, condominiums, single-family homes and townhouses are plentiful.
Fairfax County, Virginia is a diverse and thriving urban county. As the most populous jurisdiction in both Virginia and the Washington metropolitan area, the county's population exceeds that of seven states. The median household income of Fairfax County is one of the highest in the nation and over half of its adult residents have four-year college degrees or more educational attainment.
Education One of the primary attractions of Fairfax County is its public school system, perennially rated one of the best in the country. The average cost per student in 2004-05 is $11,022. The school system contains several high schools with Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate degree programs, in addition to a science and technology magnet school, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. It is one of a select few Virginia Governor's Schools.
From its beautiful and plentiful parks to its numerous RECenters and community centers, Fairfax County is the perfect place to have fun, relax and learn something new. The County’s Park Authority protects and preserves precious natural resources, ensuring that everyone will be able to appreciate and enjoy them. In addition to the major parks, there are also nature centers, historic sites, and many golf courses to experience and explore. For more information on all the fun and exciting things there are to see and do in Fairfax County visit the official Parks and Recreation website.
Fauquier County is truly Virginia at its best. An easy drive from bustling Northern Virginia, Fauquier’s heritage rich community offers a unique environment for enhancing the most essential of American dreams. Historic small towns, museums, beautiful natural vistas, traditional farmers markets, corn mazes, vineyards, old fashioned festivals and parades, bicycle, hiking and riding trails are but a part of Fauquier’s charm.
Located in Virginia's historic Upper Piedmont, Fauquier County is emerging as an ideal business location that provides convenient access to the global community, while offering a relaxed lifestyle in a beautiful environment. Set in the countryside reaching to the Blue Ridge Mountains, it weaves its own special charm and casual sophistication throughout the region. A common thread, drawing together a true sense of community with an outstanding quality of life for its 53,000 residents…yielding a colorful patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods and villages where family's and businesses thrive.
The Fauquier County Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to the enhancement of the quality of life for all people in Fauquier County. Working in a partnership with the people, the Department shall provide the leadership to assure that citizens receive high quality recreational facilities and services. See their official website for a complete list of parks and recreational opportunities.
The Fauquier County Public School System has two high schools, five middle schools, ten elementary schools and one alternative school, which combined, serve an enrollment of just under 11,000 students. The mission of the Fauquier County Public Schools is to cultivate the ability, intellect, and character of each student to ensure an educated citizenry. For a full list of schools in the area just click here.
County Links
Live in your Caroline County dream home and experience one of Virginia's most scenic communities. Walk down the tree-lined streets, and take in all the small time charm of the many historic Colonial and Victorian homes. Visit Civil War Trails sites, view the Union Occupation Mural, see the 1835 Jeffersonian Courthouse and live, work and play in one of the nations most beloved communities.
According to recent population estimates the current population for the county is 22, 800 (2003). The county's two incorporated towns of Bowling Green and Port Royal have populations of 766 and 204 respectively. Caroline is located within 30 miles of the Richmond metro area. The County occupies 549 square miles, 77,000 acres of which belong to the Ft. A.P. Hill military reservation.
Excellent opportunities to buy and rent individual houses and apartments are available in Caroline County. Low cost of living and affordable housing make Caroline County an ideal place to live and work. Housing choices range from Lake Caroline Lake Front property or Land to condominiums, town-homes and delightful farm homes.
Major hospitals located in the area include Mary Washington Hospital located in Fredericksburg, Henrico Doctors Hospital, Medical College of Virginia, St. Mary's Hospital and the Richmond Community Hospital, all located in Richmond. Additional facilities and emergency services are located in Richmond and Fredericksburg. Local medical facilities include Pratt Medical Center of Ladysmith, Ladysmith Urgent Care, Virginia Primary Care Associates, 121 Courthouse Lane, Bowling Green, and the Caroline County Health Department.
The County has an extensive recreation and parks program. Local service organizations sponsor seasonal recreational activities for the public, including softball leagues, karate, ballet, and special events for both children and adults. There are 10 ball fields, four tennis courts, numerous private swimming pools and an 18 hole public golf course that also has private membership. Fort A.P. Hill, a designated cooperative wildlife management area, provides excellent hunting and fishing opportunities. The Stonewall Jackson Shrine, a 40 acre historic site is operated by the National Park Service. The nearby cities of Fredericksburg, Richmond and Washington, D.C. are easily accessible and provide a wide variety of cultural, social and athletic events. The Rappahannock and Mattaponi Rivers are used extensively for boating and fishing. The Rappahanock River follows Caroline's eastern border, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, wildlife watching and water sports. Visitors can rent a canoe, kayak or boat in Port Royal. Paramount’s Kings Dominion, located just 20 miles south of the county, is a large amusement park offering several different activities daily throughout the season including, one of a kind attractions and stunning shows with Hollywood glamour. A water park is also available for enjoyment during the summer months.
County Links
The Town of Orange, situated amidst rolling landscapes and spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, serves as the seat for Orange County and its business center and is a great place to live and work and enjoy the greater things in life. Orange is centrally located, approximately 70 miles from the state capital of Richmond, 83 miles from the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., 27 miles from Charlottesville, and 35 miles from Fredericksburg. The charming homes and communities are surrounded by the county’s charm boasting natural and physical beauty, antique shops, historical sites, architecturally significant churches and houses, museums, wineries and orchards.
Recreation opportunities in Orange County, Virginia are as diverse as its population. Activities are available for virtually every age group and interest. Schedules for seasonal activities such as the Orange County Fair, Parades, Street Festivals, Civil War Reenactments and Point-to-Point Horse Races can be found at the Orange County Visitors Bureau.
Orange County's public school system includes five elementary schools, 2 middle schools and one high school. Orange County also has one private school, Grymes Memorial School, which serves grades pre K through 8th grade. Germanna Community College is also located in Eastern Orange County on the Route 3 corridor. The school system represents more than 70% of Orange County's annual budget.
Surrounded by historic landmarks, rolling hills, and sparkling rivers, lakes and streams, Culpeper naturally blends a rich history with a prosperous future. With its remarkable Colonial and Victorian homes, thriving businesses, quaint shops, galleries and restaurants, it is easy to see why Culpeper County is Virginia’s most desirable place to live.
The town of Culpeper, with approximately 15,000 residents, enjoys proximity to Northern Virginia, Fredericksburg, Charlottesville and Richmond. The Town, however, sees itself as a distinctive market center in the upper Piedmont region of Virginia.
Our Cities Manassas is a thriving community of 35,000 about 20 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. Situated in a beautiful location with rolling hills and forests that give the city a rural flavor. The easy access to I-66 and I-495, makes this area a prime location for real estate investors and people looking for homes for sale. Buying a home in this historic area is becoming more and more popular. 28 percent of Manassas residents hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher, and the median home value here is $154,000. The median income in Manassas is $60,000. Manassas is a truly splendid place to buy real estate or homes for sale, with excellent Prince William County public schools, rising property values and plenty of fun and exciting things to see and do.
Currently serving more than 6700 students, Manassas City Public Schools maintains a proud tradition of educational excellence. Each School enjoys outstanding community support and holds fast to high expectations for quality public education. The mission of Manassas City Public Schools, a center of excellence, innovation and hope committed to success for all students, is to educate and develop productive, responsible, contributing citizens of the local and global community, through a school system that embraces diversity and is characterized by a safe, challenging and balanced learning experience; a dedicated and highly qualified staff equipped with ample resources; and vital partnerships with family, community, business and government.
County Links
Fredericksburg is a bustling community of 19,000 people about 45 miles south of Washington, D.C. The Fredericksburg area is a popular relocation spot, due to its lower housing prices, and commute into Washington on I-95 by car or commuter bus. A Commuter train that runs through Fredericksburg right into Washington, makes getting to work or around the town quick and simple. All in all, Fredericksburg is a smart place to look for homes for sale or to invest in real estate. 30 percent of Fredericksburg residents hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher, and the median home value here is $136,000. The median income is $47,000. Only 4 percent of residents are below the poverty level, and the crime index in this area is very low.
Fredericksburg is proud to offer an educational environment that promotes life-long learning across all subjects and grades. With Two Elementary Schools, One middle School, and One High School, the Fredericksburg school district is dedicated to a setting that provides small class sizes and individual attention, which are the major components of a quality educational experience. Highly skilled educators work together to instruct students in an environment that is safe, secure, and student centered, all the while promote comprehensive staff development, curriculum design, and accountability.
City Links
For more information on the communities of: Arlington, Woodbridge, Lake Ridge, Occoquan, Dale City, Dumfries, Triangle, Montclair, Bristow, Nokesville, Haymarket, Quantico, Lorton, Burke, Fairfax Station, Clifton, Fort Belvoir, North Stafford, Falmouth, Massaponnax, Mount Vernon, Springfield, Franconia, Annandale, Vienna, Centreville, Chantilly, Falls Church, Reston, Tysons Corner, McLean, Fort Royal, Leesburg, and Warrenton, please contact us and we'll be happy to provide you with any information you may need. |
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