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Manassas City Council approves Center Street rezoning, paving the way for new apartments, parking garage

A proposal for over 160 apartments and a new public parking garage in Old Town Manassas is moving forward. The Manassas City Council voted 3-1 Monday to advance the project along Center Street through a rezoning from industrial and commercial to planned city center. The first-reading vote followed public comments from residents both supporting and opposing the development at the former Manassas Ice and Fuel Company, or MIFCO, site, which the city purchased for over $3 million last year. Those opposed to the development raised concerns about increased traffic near schools and downtown, potential costs to taxpayers, unanswered questions about the city’s financial obligations and whether the proposed buildings would diminish Old Town’s historic character. Some asked the council to delay the decision or consider a smaller project. Supporters argued the development could attract more visitors, increase foot traffic and bring additional customers to downtown businesses. Others said the underused property needs redevelopment and that the project could contribute to the city’s economic growth. MLG Construction Management submitted the unsolicited development proposal under the Public-Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act in September 2025. The council approved an interim development agreement May 11, and the city later initiated the rezoning process.