Vision for the Rural Crescent
“The Prince William County Rural Area (also referred to as the Rural Crescent in the PWC Comprehensive Plan):
- Is a permanent countywide asset, with an enduring rural landscape, dominated by agriculture, woodland, protected open space, and other undeveloped land.
- It is characterized by a unique composite of protected natural and historic assets, with residential development in rural spaces of no less than 10 acre lots with no public sewer, and rural-based businesses, agricultural and equine uses and economy.
- It is a workable growth boundary and economic engine for the county, by sustaining working agricultural lands, protected open space, and tourism.
- The Rural Area is visually and spatially distinct from adjoining areas of the county, through implementation and utilization of a range of management tools and standards, such as PDR, 10-acre lot minimums, and permanent conservation easements. These tools and standards maintain long-term economic, environmental, and social sustainability for the entire county.
- The Rural Area incentivizes and accommodates a variety of activities and lifestyles associated with rural areas, including farming of all types, low density residential living (planned and designed not to dominate the landscape), rural businesses, cultural heritage, passive recreation, open space preservation, and enjoyment of the natural environment.
- The county’s natural and heritage resources are protected and enhanced in the Rural Area, which are fundamental to the health, safety, welfare, sustainability, and enjoyment of current and future generations.”
Submitted by Karen Sheehan – September 2019