Blog Series: – April 13, 2025

The Time Is Now: Why Dumfries Needs Its Own Economic Development Authority (EDA)

By Mayor Derrick R. Wood

Imagine a future Dumfries where families stroll down a vibrant Main Street filled with local shops and outdoor cafes. Where children play along the banks of Quantico Creek, and neighbors gather for concerts, farmers markets, and festivals. It’s a future within reach—and we now have an opportunity to make it real.

That’s why I believe the time is right for Dumfries to establish our very own Economic Development Authority (EDA).

What’s an EDA—and Why Does It Matter for Dumfries?

An Economic Development Authority is like a toolbox for growth. It gives our town more power to attract the businesses and investments we need, apply for funding, and manage key redevelopment projects. While Prince William County has its own IDA (Industrial Development Authority), it serves the entire county. We need one focused solely on Dumfries.

Our EDA would work specifically to:

• Support small business growth
• Bring in restaurants, shops, and services our residents have been asking for
• Help turn underused spaces—like Main Street and the Quantico Creek waterfront—into places full of life and opportunity
• Secure grants and build public-private partnerships
• Create jobs and increase revenue, so we can keep taxes low

We’re Listening to You

This idea didn’t come out of nowhere. Over the past year, you’ve helped us shape the Comprehensive Plan—a roadmap for what Dumfries should look like in the future. You told us you want:

• A walkable, people-first Main Street
• Local shops and restaurants
• Beautiful parks and public spaces
• A clean, accessible waterfront
• A town that invests in itself and works for everyone

Creating an EDA is a direct response to your vision. It’s how we put your ideas into action.

Why Now? Because Dumfries Is Ready

With the Rose Gaming Resort bringing more visibility to our town, and with new businesses exploring our market, the timing couldn’t be better. We have momentum. We have a plan. What we need now is a dedicated engine to help carry that plan forward. That’s what the EDA would be.

This isn’t just about economics. It’s about empowerment. It’s about Dumfries charting its own course—not waiting for outside forces to decide our future.

What’s Next?

On April 15, 2025, the Town Council will host a public hearing to consider establishing the Dumfries Economic Development Authority. We want to hear from YOU.

• Do you support this next step?
• Do you have questions or ideas?
• Do you want to get involved?

Visit www.dumfriesva.gov for meeting details and to submit your feedback.

Up Next:

In Part 2, we’ll explore how the EDA can help bring new life to Main Street and unlock the promise of the Quantico Creek waterfront—two cornerstones of the future you helped us envision.

Let’s build Dumfries—together.