The Stafford County of 2028 could offer numerous new jobs, shopping and recreation, County Administrator Anthony Romanello said in a speech Thursday.
Romanello was the keynote speaker at Stafford's 17th-annual business appreciation luncheon at the Riverside Center off U.S. 17.
His presentation touched on the healthy commercial growth Stafford has experienced in the past five years but focused on what could occur in the next 20 years.
"We are absolutely bullish on where this community is heading," Romanello said.
Romanello said the number of jobs and businesses in the county could triple by 2028 if current growth rates continue. His vision for Stafford in two decades includes:
A cluster of defense contractors and other high-tech businesses and jobs along Centreport Parkway by Stafford Regional Airport.
Outdoor recreation centered on trail systems in Falmouth and Crow's Nest and a boat ramp at Widewater. He also envisioned George Washington's Ferry Farm boyhood home becoming an "international destination."
Stafford having a minor league baseball team called the Marines, and playing host to the Marine Corps Marathon.
New shopping and dining opportunities to include a Williams-Sonoma store, an IMAX Theater, a Morton's steakhouse and the Globe & Laurel Restaurant, which is opening next month in Stafford.
The development of a pedestrian-friendly downtown Stafford that includes a multistory condominium building and a world-class hospital center.
Romanello told the crowd: Why not dream of a community in which new businesses can't wait to expand?
"We are your partners," Romanello told the assembled business leaders.
Bill Freehling: 540/374-5405
Email: bfreehling@freelancestar.com