Amtrak Virginia Sets All-Time Record with 2024 Ridership

NEWS RELEASE – February 3, 2025 December also tops in monthly ridership  RICHMOND — The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority’s (VPRA) state-supported Amtrak Virginia service set a record for ridership during calendar year 2024 with 1,389,840 passengers traveling.  That is the highest ridership mark since the Commonwealth launched state-supported service in 2009.  The 2024 figure beat the previous record set during calendar year 2023 by +4.8%.  It also topped the pre-pandemic record of 953,008 set in 2019 by 45%.  All four Amtrak Virginia corridors saw increases in 2024.   Calendar Year 2024 vs Calendar Year 2023 Comparison   December also set a record for the highest monthly ridership with more than 136,000 passengers traveling.  The total, 136,433, was the highest monthly ridership recorded since the state launched its Amtrak Virginia service, beating the previous record of 130,998 set in August of 2023 by +4.1%.  The total is also a record for the month of December and an increase of nearly +24% compared to December of 2023.  December 2024 vs December 2023 Comparison  For the month of December, all four Amtrak Virginia corridors had double-digit increases year-over-year with Roanoke seeing the largest increase at 30.5%.  The Sunday after Thanksgiving, traditionally one of the busiest travel days of the year, fell on December 1 in 2024, contributing to the record month.  “The holiday season was a busy time for us – our stations were crowded, and our trains were full,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA.  “But our 2024 record ridership represents more than just holiday travel. It is indicative of Virginians using passenger rail as a convenient part of their travel plans.”  VPRA continues to work diligently to expand passenger rail in the Commonwealth.  Last fall the authority broke ground on Long Bridge, the largest of its Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) projects.  The $2.3 billion infrastructure improvement will connect Arlington, Virginia with Washington, DC via a new two-track railroad bridge, dedicated solely to passenger rail.  The project is scheduled for completion in 2030 and will allow VPRA to increase the number of daily Amtrak Virginia roundtrips from the current eight to 13 with service connecting to Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor.      Additionally, last fall also saw ribbon cuttings at two stations in the Commonwealth – Newport News and Quantico.  The Newport News Transportation Center is a brand-new facility built to replace an ageing station that the Amtrak Virginia service had outgrown.  The new station offers more parking, upgraded passenger amenities, and connections to Amtrak’s Thruway Bus Service, Hampton Roads Transit, taxi service, and shuttles to and from the Newport News-Williamsburg Airport.  At Quantico, the station was upgraded to better meet the needs of passengers including adding an overhead pedestrian walkway with elevators for ADA accessibility.  VPRA also added a third track through the area which will allow for an increase in the number of trains operating and improving the on-time performance for all.    Currently, Amtrak Virginia’s eight daily roundtrips include three between Norfolk and Washington, DC, two between both Roanoke and Washington, and Newport News and Washington, and one between Richmond and the nation’s capital.  The service offers a one-seat ride from Virginia to Philadelphia, New York, and Boston as well as intermediate stops on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor.  About Virginia Passenger Rail Authority  The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority was established in 2020 to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth. VPRA is committed to delivering and expanding its state-supported Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service.  The Commonwealth of Virginia first launched state-supported service in 2009 with one roundtrip between Washington, DC and Lynchburg, VA.  Since that time, the Commonwealth’s service has grown to include eight roundtrips daily with stops at 17 stations along four corridors.  For more information, please visit vapassengerrailauthority.org.   ### 

VPRA Selects Construction Partner for Long Bridge-South Package

NEWS RELEASE – January 16, 2025 Completes selection process for the Long Bridge Project   RICHMOND – The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) today announced the selection of the Long Bridge Rail Partners – a joint venture comprised of Trumbull Corp., Fay, S&B Construction, and Wagman Heavy Civil, Inc. – as construction partner for the Long Bridge Project-South Package.  VPRA separated the Long Bridge Project, a new two-track bridge across the Potomac River, into two procurements, a North Package and a South Package. The North Package was awarded to Skanska/Flatiron Joint Venture in December 2023. “The selection of Long Bridge Rail Partners completes the team that will build the largest of our Transforming Rail in Virginia projects, which will significantly change the way Virginians travel,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA.  “Our efforts to provide Virginians with expanded passenger rail service would not be possible without the continued support of Governor Youngkin and Secretary of Transportation Miller.  We thank them for their support in making our vision a reality.” “Virginia’s investment in rail will benefit passengers as well as our freight partners up and down the east coast,” said Tiffany Robinson, Director of the Department of Rail and Public Transportation and Chair of the VPRA Board.  “Long Bridge is vital to this expansion.  We look forward to working with Long Bridge Rail Partners on this project which will reshape rail service in the Commonwealth.” “The Long Bridge Rail Partners (Trumbull, Wagman, and Fay, S&B USA Construction) are excited to work with VPRA on such a challenging, transformative project for the Washington metropolitan area,” said Mark Gentile, President of Trumbull Corporation. “Together with designer STV, we offer extensive bridge, marine, and railway experience to design and build the best solution for VPRA and the region.” Long Bridge – South Package The Long Bridge Project encompasses a 1.8-mile railroad corridor between Arlington, Virginia and Washington, DC.  The South Package will use the Design-Build method to build a new two-track railroad bridge across the Potomac River, a bicycle/pedestrian bridge as well as all associated infrastructure between Arlington and Washington, DC.  In June, VPRA issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to the qualified design-build teams for the south end of the project. The selection of the Long Bridge Rail Partners moves the project to the next level as all players are now in place. The Long Bridge Rail Partners team will take the project through the final design phase, incorporating innovative alternative technical concepts, through construction with completion expected in 2030. The Long Bridge-South Package includes construction from the Rosslyn Interlocking in Arlington, Virginia to the northern abutment of the New Long Bridge on the north side of Ohio Drive SW in East Potomac Park in the District. The South Package includes: Potomac River Bridge – A new two track rail crossing over the George Washington Memorial Parkway and the Potomac River. Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge – A new 16-foot wide bicycle and pedestrian crossing over the George Washington Memorial Parkway and the Potomac River. Dedicated solely to bicycles and pedestrians, this bridge will improve access and provide a safe crossing for those not in cars or on trains.  The bridge will have connections at the Long Bridge Aquatic Center, the Mount Vernon Trail, and Ohio Drive SW. Additional Infrastructure – New retaining walls and associated embankments will be built at the George Washington Parkway as well as a new fender system within the Potomac River Navigational Channel. In October, VPRA joined officials including U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, as well as U.S. Representatives Gerry Connelly and Abigail Spanberger, for a groundbreaking ceremony for the $2.3 billion infrastructure improvement project.  The new Long Bridge will be strategically placed between the existing Long Bridge and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Yellow Line bridge and will relieve one of the worst rail traffic bottlenecks on the East Coast. VPRA’s Partners Expanding passenger rail throughout the Commonwealth would not be possible without a strong partnership with the District of Columbia.  VPRA recognizes the vital role DC plays in finding a workable solution for our area’s traffic challenges. “Mayor Muriel Bowser, along with The District Department of Transportation are thrilled to hear of the announcement of the selection of the construction partner for the Long Bridge-South Package, marking a significant milestone in advancing this transformative project,” said DDOT Director Sharon Kershbaum. “The completion of the Long Bridge will greatly benefit Washingtonians and the entire region by enhancing connectivity, improving transportation options, and fostering economic growth. We are excited to collaborate with our Virginia Passenger Rail Authority partners to bring this vital infrastructure project to fruition.” VPRA continues to work closely with VRE to improve and expand its Fredericksburg and Manassas Line service.  VRE’s support includes close to $200 million in contributions towards the TRV program. “The award of the Long Bridge-South package puts VRE one step closer toward its transformation from a commuter rail service to a regional one,” said VRE CEO Rich Dalton. “When this bridge opens in 2030, VRE will be able to expand service on both of its lines to meet the growing needs of travelers in the region. And, due to the separation of freight and passenger trains, we will experience improvements in reliability. VRE is pleased to partner with VPRA on this and other TRV projects.” Working with CSX to expand service throughout the Commonwealth, VPRA was able to purchase the railroad right-of-way which will make Long Bridge and other TRV projects possible. “The Long Bridge Project will unlock the bottleneck in this congested corridor and provide enhanced service for CSX customers, as well as VRE and Amtrak passengers,” said Randy Marcus, Director of State Relations for Virginia, West Virginia, and D.C. at CSX. “CSX’s collaboration with the Commonwealth continues to deliver economic and transportation benefits to businesses and commuters in Virginia and across the region.” Amtrak, which has served as the state’s operational partner since Virginia’s state-supported service began in 2009, is […]

Study Estimates Transforming Rail in Virginia will provide significant economic and social benefit

VRE & VPRA Cut Ribbon on Quantico Station Improvements

NEWS RELEASE – November 1, 2024 Project enhances safety, service, and rail capacity ALEXANDRIA — The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) celebrated the completion of a $27.5 million improvement project at the Quantico train station with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 1. The project is designed to improve safety, service, and rail capacity on VPRA’s Amtrak Virginia state-supported service and VRE’s Fredericksburg Line. “This transformative project – which brings a renewed sense of vibrancy to the Quantico station and town surrounding it – is the result of strong partnerships with other railroads, local jurisdictions, Marine Corps Base Quantico, and federal and state agencies,” said VRE CEO Rich Dalton. “These improvements will enhance the passenger experience, increase operational flexibility, and make the station accessible.” The project includes construction of a pedestrian bridge, which replaces an at-grade crossing; center platform; and extension of an existing platform. The station, which is also served by Amtrak, now has three boardable platform edges. Rehabilitation of the 1953 station house includes fresh paint, modern furnishings and new display screens. The Quantico station improvements are part of a larger VPRA project, funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Commonwealth of Virginia and constructed by CSX Transportation (CXST), that adds 9.2 miles of a third mainline track between control points Arkendale and North Possum Point.  The addition of this third track will improve on time performance for Amtrak and VRE trains, as more rail capacity allows for faster passenger trains to pass trains that travel at lower speeds.  The $101.4 million Arkendale project is a part of VPRA’s Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative to expand passenger rail service in the Commonwealth. “The Arkendale project represents the first completion of rail capacity projects in the Commonwealth, and these projects will enable more passenger service, thereby offering Virginians more choices to avoid the “all day rush hour” on our interstates,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA.  “This project was funded by both federal and state tax dollars signaling a commitment from both Washington and Richmond to expanding passenger rail service in Northern Virginia.” VRE’s Quantico station construction partners include CSXT, Archer & Western, Dewberry, HDR, STV and U.S. Facilities, Inc. Its three jurisdictional partners are the Town of Quantico, Prince William County, and Marine Corps Base Quantico.  VPRA’s partner on the third track project is CSXT. About VRE VRE, the nation’s 13th largest commuter rail service, connects Central and Northern Virginia with the District of Columbia. VRE is recognized for its provision of safe, reliable, convenient, and comfortable transportation. Its two lines, Manassas and Fredericksburg, serve 19 stations, including two – L’Enfant and Union Station – in D.C. Additional information is available at www.vre.org. About VPRA The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority was established in 2020 to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth. Through its Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative, VPRA is acquiring railroad right-of-way and building infrastructure to expand passenger rail throughout Virginia.  VPRA is also committed to delivering and expanding its state-supported Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service. The Commonwealth of Virginia first launched state-supported service in 2009 with one roundtrip between Washington, DC and Lynchburg, VA. Since that time, Virginia’s state-supported passenger rail service has grown to include eight roundtrips daily with stops at 17 stations along four corridors. For more information, please visit vapassengerrailauthority.org. # # #  

Long Bridge Groundbreaking Furthers New Era in Rail Travel in Virginia

Updates at Staples Mill Station Improve Passenger Experience

NEWS RELEASE – September 23, 2024 Include refreshed snack shack and new ride app location RICHMOND – To better meet the needs of passengers traveling to and from Richmond’s Staples Mill Station, the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) and Amtrak have implemented a number of updates to improve passengers’ experience inside and outside the station. To more efficiently move passengers through the station and connect them to their final destinations, there is now a new location for those using ride apps to arrive or depart the station. Effective immediately, passengers utilizing ride-sharing services, such as Lyft and Uber, will be directed to the station’s designated bus loop area for a smoother and more efficient pick-up and drop-off process. This new location, on the north side of the station will enhance the flow of passengers through the station and mitigate vehicle traffic congestion outside the station during peak hours. “As the busiest Amtrak station in the southeast, effectively moving traffic inside and outside the station is important to the customer experience,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority. “These improvements will make service at Staples Mill more convenient and efficient and improve the overall experience for all travelers.” “The Staples Mill Road Station is a major hub for customers traveling to destinations along the East Coast from Boston or Miami,” said Ray Lang, Vice President of State-Supported Services at Amtrak. “We are grateful to the partnerships to help us modernize our stations and create a safer and more welcoming environment for travelers.” With more than 424,000 passengers traveling through the station last year, improving traffic flow and alleviating crowding around the station’s main entrance was a priority, particularly during periods of high ridership. VPRA worked with Lyft and Uber to remap the parking lot which will now direct all ride app drivers to the designated pick-up and drop-off zone. “We’re really excited about the new pick-up and drop-off zone at Staples Mill Station. This change is all about making things easier and more convenient for riders. By reducing congestion and streamlining the process, we’re helping everyone get to where they need to go more smoothly. It’s great to work with VPRA and Amtrak on this project, and we’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the Richmond community,” said Matthew Van Name, Lyft Public Policy Manager. In addition to the new ride app location, the snack shack inside the station received a facelift. The renovation modernized the space and was the final piece of a refresh of the interior of the station completed last year. To further improve the experience outside the station, new LED lights have been installed throughout the station’s parking lot, building exterior, and the train platform. Designed with safety in mind, these lights will provide passengers with well-lit paths when arriving at the station or departing via the various transportation options available. These station improvements join the list of amenities already available at the Staples Mill station including Wi-Fi, an ATM, and a staffed Amtrak ticket office. The station, which opened in 1975, serves the state-supported Amtrak Virginia service, Amtrak’s long-distance Palmetto, Silver Meteor, and Silver Star trains as well as the North Carolina state-supported Carolinian. About Virginia Passenger Rail Authority The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority was established in 2020 to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth. VPRA is committed to delivering and expanding its state-supported Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service. The Commonwealth of Virginia first launched state-supported service in 2009 with one roundtrip between Washington, DC and Lynchburg, VA. Since that time, the Commonwealth’s service has grown to include eight roundtrips daily with stops at 17 stations along four corridors. For more information, please visit vapassengerrailauthority.org. About Amtrak® For 50 years, Amtrak has connected America and transformed transportation by modernizing train travel and building for the future. Amtrak will continue to play an important role in the national transportation network for the next 50 years and beyond by operating a safe, environmentally efficient and fiscally responsible business by providing travelers with an experience that sets a new standard. Book travel, check train status, access your eTicket and more through the Amtrak app. Learn more at Amtrak.com and connect with us on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. ###

Amtrak Virginia Launches Limited-Time Sale for Travel Between Newport News and Washington, D.C.

NEWS RELEASE – September 17, 2024 Plan a trip and save while exploring cities in the Commonwealth WASHINGTON & RICHMOND – Amtrak is now offering at least 25% off Flex Fare prices for travel between Newport News, Va., and Washington, D.C., which includes Alexandria, Quantico, Fredericksburg, Ashland, Richmond, and Williamsburg. Whether it’s to cheer on a favorite sports team, connect with family and friends, or sightsee beautiful foliage, customers can save more and experience everything the Commonwealth has to offer this fall. The sale is for travel in Coach Class between Thursday, Sept. 19, through Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024, when booking now through Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024. Amtrak Virginia offers customers the ease of travel to and from city centers, free Wi-Fi and the ability to travel with small pets. Guests can also enjoy wide, comfortable, and reclining seats with plenty of legroom, and large picture windows while decreasing their greenhouse gas emissions by up to 83% compared to driving and 72% compared to flying. Cafe Service is available to purchase meals, snacks and beverages, including a Virginia-based craft beer, Brewski, for only $8. Customers traveling to and from Newport News via Amtrak Virginia can experience the Newport News Transportation Center, a brand-new multimodal facility located at 500-B Bland Blvd. The center also offers a transfer point for Amtrak Thruway Bus Service, extending travel to Norfolk and Virginia Beach, taxi service, and shuttles to and from the Newport News-Williamsburg Airport. The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority supports Amtrak Virginia service that operates along four corridors from Norfolk, Richmond, Newport News, and Roanoke to Washington, D.C., and continues to Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, Boston, and other popular Northeast cities. This offer can be combined with Amtrak’s everyday discounts. Restrictions apply. To see full details and book, visit Amtrak.com/Newport-News-Sale. About Amtrak® For more than 50 years, Amtrak has connected America and modernized train travel. Offering a safe, environmentally efficient way to reach more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada, Amtrak provides travelers with an experience that sets a new standard. Book travel, check train status, access your eTicket and more through the Amtrak app. Learn more at Amtrak.com and connect with us on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. About Virginia Passenger Rail Authority The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority was established in 2020 to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth. VPRA is committed to delivering and expanding its state-supported Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service. The Commonwealth of Virginia first launched state-supported service in 2009 with one roundtrip between Washington, D.C., and Lynchburg, Va. Since that time, Virginia’s state-supported passenger rail service has grown to include eight roundtrips daily with stops at 17 stations along four corridors. For more information, please visit vapassengerrailauthority.org. ###  

VPRA Purchases Manassas Line from Norfolk Southern

Local Craft Beer, Brewski, Now Available on Amtrak Virginia Trains

NEWS RELEASE – June 6, 2024 Goal to boost local food and beverage industry RICHMOND — Customers will get a taste of Virginia while traveling on the train. The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, Amtrak, and the Center of the Universe Brewing Company in Ashland are partnering to offer a local craft beer, Brewski, onboard Amtrak Virginia trains. Beginning June 8, Brewski, will be available for purchase in the Café Cars on Northeast Regional service traveling along four corridors from Roanoke, Newport News, Norfolk, and Richmond to Washington, D.C. and continuing to Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston.  A 12-ounce can of Brewski will cost $8.00. A 5% German-Style Dortmunder pale lager, Brewski debuted at the Center of the Universe in April of 2022.  The Dortmunder style was originally created in Germany around 150 years ago as a lower ABV lager alternative for working class citizens.  This origin story influenced the tagline for the brand, “THE LAGER THAT WORKS AS HARD AS YOU.” The addition of Brewski to Amtrak Virginia beverage options is the culmination of a two-year effort to offer locally-sourced products on Virginia trains, a key recommendation of the Amtrak Food & Beverage Working Group (FBWG).  A cross-functional team comprised of representatives from Virginia and Washington state, Amtrak employees and unions, as well as rail advocacy groups, the FBWG was created as a part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. The FBWG called on Amtrak to establish a formal process for states to sell locally-sourced products on their respective state-supported routes.  Virginia is currently serving as a pilot state, implementing those recommendations. The addition of Brewski to the menu aids Virginia in meeting the FBWG goals to cultivate partnerships with local producers, boost the local food and beverage industry, and improve overall customer experience on trains. “Offering Brewski onboard our Amtrak Virginia trains isn’t just about adding to our beverage menu, it’s about supporting Virginia’s vibrant craft beer industry, a cornerstone of several local economies,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority.  “This partnership allows us to celebrate Virginia’s unique craft beer offerings while supporting the communities we serve and directly injecting revenue into Virginia’s economy.” “Our food and beverage offerings are essential to the customer experience,” Amtrak Vice President Ray Lang said.  “We are pleased to partner with VPRA and Center of the Universe Brewing Co. to offer something new for people to enjoy while traveling with us.” “Rail fans and craft beer fans alike have been sipping Brewskis and watching trains at our Downtown Ashland brewery and taproom, Origin Beer Lab, for six years now,” said Chris Ray, Owner of the Center of the Universe Brewing Company.  “Amtrak Virginia passengers can now raise a glass of Brewski as they journey across the state, savoring a taste of Virginia’s rich brewing heritage. This partnership is a welcome boost to the local economy.” About Virginia Passenger Rail Authority The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority was established in 2020 to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth. VPRA is committed to delivering and expanding its state-supported Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service.  The Commonwealth of Virginia first launched state-supported service in 2009 with one roundtrip between Washington, DC and Lynchburg, VA.  Since that time, the Commonwealth’s service has grown to include eight roundtrips daily with stops at 17 stations along four corridors.  For more information, please visit vapassengerrailauthority.org. About Amtrak® For 50 years, Amtrak has connected America and transformed transportation by modernizing train travel and building for the future. Amtrak will continue to play an important role in the national transportation network for the next 50 years and beyond by operating a safe, environmentally efficient and fiscally responsible business by providing travelers with an experience that sets a new standard. Book travel, check train status, access your eTicket and more through the Amtrak app. Learn more at Amtrak.com and connect with us on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. About Center of the Universe Brewing Company Owned by brothers Chris and Phil Ray, the Center of the Universe Brewing Company opened in 2011 in Ashland, Virginia.  Offering a variety of lagers and IPAs, Center of the Universe prides itself on offering sustainable and consistent core products year-round.  In addition to their core craft beers, a monthly seasonal rotates in to keep the selection fresh.  Chris and Phil’s craft beers have been recognized by the Virginia Craft Brewers Cup. For details, please visit cotubrewing.com. ###      

VPRA and Norfolk Southern in Discussions for New Rail Agreement

NEWS RELEASE – June 4, 2024 Would provide benefits for VRE and the New River Valley RICHMOND — The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) announced today that it is in preliminary discussions with Norfolk Southern Corporation to purchase the Manassas Line and to pursue an option to extend passenger rail service to the New River Valley (NRV) on the Norfolk Southern main line (N-Line). While negotiations are in the early stages, VPRA and Norfolk Southern have established a mutually beneficial framework for both passenger and freight rail service. The purchase of the Manassas Line would be beneficial to Virginians who use VRE’s Manassas Line service as it would allow for additional frequencies including evening and weekend service. Currently, VRE offers eight roundtrips on the Manassas Line with stops at Broad Run, Manassas, Manassas Park, Burke Centre, Rolling Road, Backlick Road, Alexandria, Crystal City, L’Enfant, and Washington Union Station. Purchasing the Manassas Line would give VPRA the flexibility to work with VRE to expand service beyond the current traditional commuting option with northbound trains operating in the morning hours and southbound trains in the afternoon. After receiving more information regarding the cost and timeframe for delivering service along the Virginian Line — per a 2022 agreement with Norfolk Southern — VPRA revisited negotiations with Norfolk Southern to find a more cost-effective and timelier alternative on the N-Line. Extending service to the NRV via the N-Line would allow VPRA to offer passenger rail service to Norfolk Southern’s Cambria Yard in Christiansburg, which served rail passengers from 1904 to 1979. It could potentially reduce the cost and accelerate VPRA’s plans to expand passenger rail service to the area. Following recent public outreach in the NRV that included surveys and public meetings, it became clear that service on the N-Line was also the preferred option for constituents there. Recognizing the importance of determining the feasibility of the N-Line option, VPRA is advancing discussions with Norfolk Southern. Those discussions are ongoing and together with Norfolk Southern, VPRA will work expeditiously over the summer to complete the necessary evaluation of the N-Line option and Cambria Yard site. The results of that evaluation and a recommended path forward will be presented to the VPRA Board at their August meeting. “VPRA exists to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail in the Commonwealth, and with these negotiations, we are working towards that mission,” said Jennifer DeBruhl, Director of the Virginia Department of Rail & Public Transportation (DRPT) and VPRA’s Board Chair. “We saw the numbers, the timeline, and listened to our stakeholders, and it became clear that if using the N-Line was a possibility, we had to pursue that,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA. “Norfolk Southern has been a great partner to VPRA as we’ve worked to reach more Virginians by rail, and we appreciate their efforts in aiding us in this endeavor.” “We value our relationship with VPRA and appreciate the role the authority plays in advancing passenger rail in the Commonwealth of Virginia,” said Norfolk Southern Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Mike McClellan. “We look forward to continuing to partner on projects like this that stand to serve the interests of our communities while also balancing the needs of our freight customers and the economy we support.” About Virginia Passenger Rail Authority The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority was established in 2020 to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth. VPRA is committed to delivering and expanding its state-supported Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service. The Commonwealth of Virginia first launched state-supported service in 2009 with one roundtrip between Washington, DC and Lynchburg, VA. Since that time, the Commonwealth’s service has grown to include eight roundtrips daily with stops at 17 stations along four corridors. For more information, please visit vapassengerrailauthority.org. About Norfolk Southern Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid approximately 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and Norfolk Southern originates more automotive traffic than any other Class I Railroad. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S. It serves a majority of the country’s population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as major ports in the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com. ###