Stafford County Utilities

Stafford County Utilities Municipal Water Report Info

About Spotsylvania County: Spotsylvania County features a beautiful blend of rural and urban landscapes and ranks among Virginia's fastest growing regions. The county boasts scenic Lake Anna, pastoral countryside, suburban developments, and numerous historical sites from Colonial and Civil War eras. Its thriving community has attracted diverse businesses and retail establishments serving both residents and visitors, making it a popular tourist destination.

Our History
Established in 1721, Spotsylvania County was named after Colonial Governor Alexander Spotswood, who founded ironworks in the area during the early 1700s. His "Iron Mines Company" began mining and smelting operations at Germanna in 1725, with remnants still visible today. Known as the "Crossroads of the Civil War," four major battles occurred here, including the particularly bloody Battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse in May 1864, where Union and Confederate forces clashed at the infamous "Bloody Angle." The other significant battles were at Wilderness, Fredericksburg, and Chancellorsville.

Location and Highlights
Positioned along Interstate 95 between Washington DC and Richmond, Spotsylvania County covers 414.25 square miles with elevations ranging from sea level to 540 feet. The county features a VRE commuter rail station, designated Technology Zones to support high-tech business growth, and over 7 million square feet of retail and commercial space. Recreational amenities include 13,000-acre Lake Anna, Lake Anna State Park with multiple outdoor activities, historic sites in the Courthouse area, over 4,400 acres of Civil War battlefields maintained by the National Park Service, and several reservoirs. The county maintains 12 parks (including award-winning Patriot Park), 5 community centers, an outdoor amphitheater, a senior center, and a visitor center.

Population and Demographics
As of January 2018, the estimated population reached 135,100, reflecting 7.6% growth since 2010, with projections of 167,618 by 2040. The population density is 336.5 people per square mile. The county's racial composition (as of July 2016) was approximately 69% White, 17% Black or African American, 9% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Asian, and 2% other groups. Age distribution shows 12% aged 65 or older, 54% between 25-64 years, 6% between 20-24 years, and 28% under 19 years. Spotsylvania's median household income in 2016 was $81,065, ranking 92nd highest among approximately 3,200 counties nationwide.

Education System and Government
The county's public education system includes 31 schools and centers governed by an elected School Board. The on-time graduation rate is approximately 90%, with 82% of graduates pursuing higher education. Nearby Germanna Community College offers affordable pathways to continuing education, while the University of Mary Washington provides outstanding liberal arts education. Spotsylvania County operates under a Board of Supervisors governance model with a County Administrator overseeing departments and agencies. The Sheriff's Office is certified by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission, and Fire/EMS services operate 24/7 from 11 stations throughout the county. Spotsylvania has earned strong bond ratings: AAA/Aa1/AA+ from Fitch, Moody's, and Standard & Poor's respectively.