Edward S. Wizner
Published: March 21, 2008

On behalf of Ramco-Gershenson Properties Trust, owner of Aquia Towne Center, I want to thank Supervisor Paul Milde and the Stafford County Board of Supervisors, for their favorable consideration of the property’s rezoning application last month. The board’s action will permit us to proceed with the redevelopment of the shopping center into a vibrant mixed-use community consistent with the principles of the citizens of Stafford. The redeveloped center will provide the county with a very high-quality development while providing commercial, office, residential and recreational opportunities within a self-contained community.

I particularly want to thank Supervisor Paul Milde, whose district the property is located, for his constant and enthusiastic support of our redevelopment efforts. Without his leadership, the result we obtained last month could not have occurred. I am also grateful for the efforts and support of Supervisor Dudenhefer and new supervisors Sterling and Crisp, who learned the details of this project very quickly after taking office on January 1 of this year as well as supervisors Woodson, Schwartz and Briton for their considerable effort and time in evaluating our project. Finally I want to thank the county administrator, Anthony Romanello, and his staff for their kind assistance throughout the process.

Ramco-Gershenson remains committed to working with its neighbors and Stafford County to compete the redevelopment work at the shopping center, already under way. The new center, to be known as The Town at Aquia, will provide a showcase for what can happen when local government and responsible development work together toward “win-win” solutions that benefit all participants. Thank you again, Mr. Milde and Stafford County.

Edward S. Wizner
Vice-president
Ramco-Gershenson