Prince William County Launches Online Build-Out Analysis to Guide Future Growth

The Prince William County Planning Office has released the updated and now online Build-Out Analysis Dashboard, a data-driven evaluation of the county’s remaining development potential under current zoning and land use designations. 

The Build-Out Analysis estimates how much residential and nonresidential development could occur if all land within the county were built to the maximum extent allowed by existing zoning. The results provide valuable insight into future growth capacity, infrastructure needs and policy considerations that will guide sustainable, balanced development. 

As a planning tool, the Build-Out Analysis helps answer key questions such as: 

• How much housing or commercial space could be built in the county? 
• Where does remaining capacity for growth exist, and where are there constraints? 
• What impacts might different growth scenarios have on infrastructure, services, and the environment? 

Available through an interactive dashboard, with integrated data tables and GIS maps, the tool allows users to explore parcel-level data and see how different areas of the county—developed, unbuilt, underdeveloped and redevelopment opportunity areas—contribute to overall growth potential. By modeling development capacity and aligning it with the 2040 Comprehensive Plan’s long-term goals, the dashboard supports more transparent and informed land use planning for Prince William County. 

The Build-Out Analysis was last updated in 2021 as a report. Now as an online dashboard, the Build-Out Analysis will be updated throughout the year as land use applications are approved, and other updates take place. 

The Build-Out Analysis Dashboard also supports Goal 7: Service Delivery Excellence in the county’s 2025–2028 Strategic Plan by improving data accessibility, transparency and collaboration in planning decisions. By offering clear, parcel-level insight into development potential, the tool helps county leaders and residents make informed choices that promote efficient, sustainable and well-coordinated service delivery across the community. 

The Planning Office will hold a virtual Lunch and Learn in the near future providing a demonstration of the Build-Out Analysis Dashboard and its features. Contact [email protected] to get updates on when the Lunch and Learn will take place. 

Explore the Build-Out Analysis Dashboard now.