Margaret Franklin

Economic development is a critical issue throughout Prince William County and more importantly within the Woodbridge corridor. We must strive to promote job growth in Woodbridge through commercial development but with a keen focus on smart growth that allows for the emergence of large companies while also protecting our mom and pop shops. Spurring economic development and creating jobs locally by utilizing opportunity zones and providing an innovation hub for new startups and small businesses along with diverse commercial and retail including restaurants and modernized shopping areas.

Growth of commercial development also spurs residential development. We must guarantee that any new residential development within the Woodbridge corridor will provide and help maintain affordable housing options for all residents. Providing safe and affordable housing options to all residents by creating a housing trust fund and incentivizing stakeholders to create affordable housing units and strengthening and expanding programs that help first time home-buyers with down payment assistance.