In this week’s update:

📡 Amazon Plans Massive Data Center Campus in Virginia: Amazon sent a permit application to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a data center campus.

⛴️ Dumfries Plans Waterfront Transformation to Become a Destination: The town of Dumfries, Virginia, is unveiling plans for revitalization projects that could completely transform the town. Northern Virginia Bureau Reporter Drew Wilder explains the town hopes to create a mini National Harbor.

🛫 Washington Dulles Tops the List for Most Expensive Domestic Airfare: Washington Dulles International is the costliest U.S. airport to fly out of domestically on average, per the latest Transportation Department data.

Driving the news: Amazon is moving forward with plans to build an 11-building data center campus in Caroline and Spotsylvania counties. The company has submitted a permit application to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the proposed Mattameade Data Center, a project spanning over 1,100 acres.

Details:

• The campus will be located southeast of the I-95 and Mudd Tavern Road intersection.

• Plans include 11 two-story data centers, secure access points, emergency roads, parking, and a central administration building.

• The facility will generate at least 770 megawatts of data center capacity by 2027.

• Additional features include a water treatment plant, three substation pads, and recreational spaces like pickleball and basketball courts.

• Amazon is purchasing 6.48 wetland credits and 2,346 stream credits to offset environmental impact.

Why it matters: This project reinforces Amazon’s $35 billion commitment to Virginia for expanding cloud infrastructure. Data centers are a major economic driver, bringing investment, job opportunities, and tax revenue to the region.

The big picture: Virginia is a hub for data centers, hosting 96 Amazon facilities—more than any other state. With increasing demand for cloud services, companies like Amazon are rapidly expanding their footprint.

What’s next: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will review the permit, considering environmental, economic, and safety factors. Public comments are open until March 15.

The bottom line: If approved, Amazon’s new data center campus will boost Virginia’s status as a tech powerhouse while delivering economic benefits and infrastructure improvements to the local community.

Driving the news: Gov. Glenn Youngkin has announced a new statewide job hub to help connect workers with employment opportunities, following federal workforce reductions affecting thousands of Virginians. The initiative aims to create 250,000 new jobs across the public and private sectors.

Details:

• The new online job portal will direct applicants to available positions statewide.

• Recent listings include roles in transportation, corrections, and construction, with salaries ranging from $41,000 to $165,000 per year.

• Virginia has 144,000 federal workers, the most of any state outside of Washington, D.C.

• Layoffs have impacted employees at IRS, FAA, FEMA, and even health research fields.

• A second resource page will help federal employees navigate unemployment benefits and healthcare enrollment.

Why it matters: Federal workforce cuts have hit Virginia’s economy hard, given its close ties to Washington, D.C. The job hub aims to mitigate the impact, support displaced workers, and keep talent within the state.

The big picture: While Youngkin supports streamlining federal government operations, Democratic leaders argue that the job cuts are too broad and disruptive. House Speaker Don Scott has launched a bipartisan committee to investigate the impacts, with hearings scheduled statewide.

What’s next: The committee may propose legislative solutions in the coming months. Meanwhile, public and private sector employers are encouraged to list job openings on the state’s new hiring platform.

The bottom line: Virginia is taking steps to offset federal job losses by providing new employment opportunities and support resources, ensuring that affected workers can transition smoothly into new roles.

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Driving the news: Officials in Dumfries, Virginia, are moving forward with plans to develop a waterfront district along Quantico Creek, aiming to turn the small town into a vibrant destination. The project includes a boardwalk, restaurants, and recreational boating, drawing inspiration from National Harbor.

Details:

• The waterfront district will be built near Possum Point, where Dumfries once thrived as a port town.

• The project will take shape on the Campbell Salvage Yard property, which the town is in the process of acquiring.

• Tax revenue from Rosie’s Gaming Emporium and The Rose Gaming Resort will help fund the development.

• Dumfries has seen a 300 percent increase in revenue, providing financial support for the revitalization.

• An EPA grant will assist in cleaning up Quantico Creek.

Why it matters: This project aims to revitalize Dumfries by reconnecting it with its waterfront roots, creating economic growth, new businesses, and a destination for visitors in Northern Virginia.

The big picture: While Dumfries has long been a pass-through town, local leaders hope this development will make it a place people intentionally visit. The mix of dining, recreation, and waterfront access could bring tourism and boost local businesses.

What’s next: The town is finalizing the property acquisition, and public input will be sought during the planning process.

The bottom line: Dumfries is positioning itself for a major transformation, with plans to turn its waterfront into a thriving attraction that draws both residents and visitors.

Driving the news: SYN Rooftop Bar & Lounge is set to open on March 1, becoming the first rooftop bar with outdoor seating in Reston Town Center. Located above the 16th floor of the AC Hotel & Residence Inn, the bar will offer year-round indoor and outdoor seating.

Details:

• The bar features a cocktail menu with options like the Gin de Jardin, made with cucumber-infused gin, and the smoky Forbidden Orchard, crafted with mezcal and pomegranate juice.

• Executive chef Alexis Hernandez has curated a food menu focused on shareable plates, including ricotta with walnut raisin bread and wagyu sliders.

• SYN aims to create a welcoming space for both casual cocktails and extended gatherings.

• Hours of operation will be Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to midnight.

Why it matters: This new rooftop spot adds a fresh social scene to Reston, offering stunning views, craft cocktails, and a high-end dining experience in the heart of the town center.

The big picture: Reston continues to expand its dining and nightlife options, enhancing its appeal as a destination for locals and visitors alike. The addition of SYN could further solidify the town center’s reputation as a go-to spot for upscale experiences.

What’s next: SYN opens its doors on March 1, giving residents and visitors a new place to enjoy elevated cocktails, creative dishes, and a lively atmosphere.

The bottom line: With its rooftop views, curated menu, and stylish setting, SYN Rooftop Bar & Lounge is poised to become a standout spot in Reston’s nightlife scene.

Driving the news: Washington Dulles International (IAD) has the highest average domestic airfare among major U.S. airports, with tickets costing significantly more than the national average, according to new Transportation Department data.

Details:

• The average domestic fare out of Dulles in Q3 2024 was $473, over $100 more than the national average of $366.

• Meanwhile, Reagan National (DCA) offers slightly cheaper flights, averaging $359, just below the national average.

• The least expensive domestic flights are out of Ft. Lauderdale (FLL) at $252, nearly half the cost of flying from Dulles.

• Other high-cost airports include Santa Ana ($428), San Francisco ($425), and Salt Lake City ($411).

• The most budget-friendly airports include New York LaGuardia ($303), Chicago Midway ($292), and Las Vegas ($275).

Why it matters: Flying out of Dulles can significantly increase travel costs, especially when factoring in rideshare fees from D.C. Taking the Metro’s Silver Line can help cut transportation expenses for budget-conscious travelers.

The big picture: Airfare prices continue to fluctuate based on demand, airport fees, and carrier availability. For those looking to save, consider alternate airports like Reagan National or even regional hubs with lower fares.

What’s next: Travelers should keep an eye on airfare trends and explore budget-friendly routes to avoid the steep costs of flying from the country’s priciest airports.

The bottom line: Dulles may offer international convenience, but for domestic travel, flying out of nearby airports could save you hundreds.

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