Happy Friday, Northern Virginia!

In this week’s update:

💵 Micron Expands Manassas Operations with $2.17 Billion Investment: Micron Technology is investing $2.17 billion to expand its Manassas facility, creating 340 jobs and boosting U.S. semiconductor production with support from federal and state incentives.

🦫 Buc-ee’s Set to Open First Virginia Location in 2025: Buc-ee’s is bringing its first Virginia travel center to Rockingham County in 2025, with more locations planned statewide, promising jobs, convenience, and a boost to local economies.

🐼 Giant Pandas Arrive at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo: Meet the new giant pandas at the National Zoo on Jan. 24, 2025, and support their conservation mission.

💰 Micron to Invest $2.17B in Manassas Expansion

Driving the news: Micron Technology is investing up to $2.17 billion to expand its manufacturing facility in Manassas, creating 340 new jobs and bolstering the region's role in semiconductor production. The expanded plant will focus on producing DRAM chips for automotive, aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.

Details:

• The project will move Micron’s DRAM chip production for vehicles from Taiwan to Virginia, marking a significant shift in domestic semiconductor manufacturing.

• Federal funding of up to $275 million from the CHIPS Act supports the expansion, along with a $70 million state incentive package repackaged from a 2018 award.

• The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program will assist Micron in workforce recruitment and training to meet the facility’s growing demands.

Why it matters: This investment secures Virginia’s position as a leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, a critical national security and innovation industry. It aligns with U.S. efforts to increase domestic memory production, reducing reliance on overseas supply chains.

The big picture: The Manassas expansion is part of Micron’s broader U.S. growth strategy, which includes a $6.165 billion federal funding award to expand production in Idaho and New York. By 2035, the U.S. aims to grow its share of advanced memory manufacturing from 2% to 10%.

What’s next: As modernization efforts continue, Micron will work with the City of Manassas, state officials, and federal partners to solidify the facility’s role in meeting global semiconductor demands while creating local economic opportunities.

The bottom line: Micron’s commitment to innovation and Virginia’s strategic support highlight the state’s growing influence in the high-tech manufacturing sector.

🦫 Buc-ee’s estimates first Va. location to open in June

Driving the news: Buc-ee’s, the Texas-based mega-travel center chain, is gearing up to open its first Virginia location in Rockingham County by mid-2025. The 74,000-square-foot center, located off I-81 in Mount Crawford, is expected to bring 200 jobs and 120 fueling stations to the area.

Details:

• Construction on the Rockingham County location began in January 2024. The $6.6 million project includes Buc-ee’s signature features like clean restrooms, freshly prepared Texas barbecue, and competitive gas prices.

• Buc-ee’s has also proposed locations in Stafford and New Kent counties, with the latter delayed until 2027 due to road construction projects.

• The Stafford County site is under review and has faced local opposition, including a petition signed by over 1,500 residents.

Why it matters: With plans for four locations statewide, Buc-ee’s arrival marks a significant economic boost for Virginia, creating hundreds of jobs and attracting travelers. However, the Stafford proposal highlights the challenges of balancing community concerns with large-scale development.

The big picture: Buc-ee’s expansion beyond Texas continues to reshape the travel center industry, combining convenience, quality, and economic impact in each new location.

What’s next: The Mount Crawford center is on track to open in mid-2025, while plans for other locations remain in various stages of development and review.

The bottom line: Buc-ee’s is more than a gas station—it’s an economic driver and a cultural icon. Its entry into Virginia promises growth and convenience, though not without addressing the concerns of some communities.

🎥 Northern Virginia's BEST New Homes in 2025

Welcome to my latest video! Let's explore Northern Virginia's best new constructions projects for the year of 2025!

🐼 Meet The Pandas: You Can Make a Giant Impact

Driving the news: Bao Li and Qing Bao, the newest giant pandas at the Smithsonian's National Zoo, are ready to meet their fans! Starting January 24, 2025, visitors can see the pair in their newly renovated habitat on Asia Trail.

Details:

• Bao Li (Male): Born Aug. 4, 2021, his name means "active and vital power."

• Qing Bao (Female): Born Sept. 12, 2021, her name reflects the lush mountain habitat pandas call home.

• Special benefits for Zoo members include early access to see the pandas before their public debut.

Why it matters: While admission to the Zoo is free, the giant panda program relies on the support of visitors and donors for 74% of its annual budget, funding vital conservation efforts and research.

The big picture: Giant pandas are ambassadors for conservation, symbolizing efforts to protect Asia’s mountain forests and the biodiversity within them. Your contributions help safeguard the future of these cherished animals and their natural habitat.

What’s next:

• Visit: Plan your trip to meet the pandas on January 24. Every dollar spent at the Zoo supports its mission.

• Watch: Follow the journey of Bao Li and Qing Bao in the “Prepping for Pandas” YouTube series.

• Support: Donate, join as a member, or snag some new panda merch—coming soon!

The bottom line: Bao Li and Qing Bao are more than just adorable—they represent a global effort to save endangered species and ecosystems. Visit, give, or shop to be part of their conservation story.

📊 Our Current Local Market Numbers

The Northern Virginia real estate market continues to thrive across Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax Counties. Whether buying or selling, having an experienced guide by your side is crucial in today's dynamic market.

Selling your home? I'll create a targeted marketing strategy and help you set the right price to attract serious buyers and maximize your return.

Looking to buy? With current interest rates, this could be your ideal time to purchase. Let me help you find and secure the perfect home.

🗞️ In Other News…

• The Savannah Bananas Are Coming to Washington, D.C.

• Virginia's Top Doctors 2025

• HCA Healthcare’s Dominion Hospital has new CEO

Chris Colgan - EXP Realty Powered by Place

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