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 contributing $944 million to the TRV program.  Rail improvements will benefit the network of Amtrak Virginia, long distance, and commuter services operating in the Commonwealth.

“We are happy with this significant development advancing the Long Bridge project to improve rail infrastructure in Virginia,” Amtrak Vice President Ray Lang said. “We are proud to partner with VPRA on the continued growth of passenger rail for travel between the Northeast and Southeast regions.”

Transforming Rail in Virginia

A national model for the expansion of state-supported passenger rail service, TRV is the Commonwealth’s $5 billion initiative to expand passenger rail service and give Virginian’s an alternative to the state’s ever-growing traffic problem.  With VPRA leading the way, the Commonwealth is changing the future of rail transportation by acquiring railroad right-of-way, increasing rail capacity, and reworking passenger and freight operations to improve reliability and increase rail service.

Other partners who have helped bring TRV to fruition include:

• Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)who supported Long Bridge with a $729 million grant through its Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program (FSP-National).
• Virginia’s Congressional delegation, who supported program funding and VPRA grant applications to ensure funding for Long Bridge as well as all Phase 2 TRV projects.
• The Virginia General Assembly, who through their 2020 enabling legislation, created VPRA and established the Commonwealth Transportation Fund that provides ongoing funding for VPRA’s TRV projects.

Through a combination of state & local dollars and federal grants, Long Bridge as well as all Phose 2 TRV projects, are currently fully-funded.  Once Phase 2 is complete, VPRA will fund a total of 13 daily Amtrak Virginia roundtrips, up from the current eight, along four corridors between Washington, DC and Roanoke, Newport News, Norfolk, and Richmond with continuing service to points north including Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston.

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. 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.

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Virginia’s TRV initiative could provide nearly $7 billion economic boost

RICHMOND — Today the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at the University of Virginia published the Economic and Social Impact of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority’s (VPRA) Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) initiative. The study takes a deep dive into the benefits of expanding passenger rail service in the Commonwealth and how the state’s investment in this transportation alternative will provide not only an economic boost to the state but will make generational changes in the way Virginians travel.

TRV is the Commonwealth’s forward-looking plan that calls for moving Virginians by using an existing rail corridor and building new infrastructure, eventually separating freight and passenger rail services, and improving the on-time performance of both. Once complete, VPRA will fund a total of 13 daily Amtrak roundtrips, up from the current eight, along four corridors between Washington, DC and Roanoke, Newport News, Norfolk, and Richmond.

The Transforming Rail in Virginia: Economic and Social Impacts study estimates that spending nearly $4.7 billion on TRV’s infrastructure projects will result in:

• The creation of 33,688 jobs;
• generating $2.6 billion in labor income;
• with $4 billion in value-added;
• and $6.7 billion in statewide economic output.

“The results of the Transforming Rail in Virginia study reveal the importance of advancing a transportation plan that includes rail as an alternative to driving,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA. “The economic benefits are clear, but including the social impacts reveal how rail can significantly benefit communities, safety, and the environment.”

The Transforming Rail study also mentions that the impacts of TRV are not limited to economic development. The transportation improvements will influence future property values and land use decisions, as well as positively impact accessibility, and social wellbeing. The report also shines light on ways TRV can promote rail, removing barriers to its use by offering more service to more locations thus creating regular users from those who previously had not considered rail as a viable alternative. Secondary impacts include the diversion of traffic from the automobile to passenger rail resulting in reduced road congestion, lower vehicle emissions, and improved safety. TRV also has the opportunity to enhance the quality of life of Virginians by expanding access to employment centers, educational institutions, and recreational areas as well as promoting tourism throughout the state.

Read the report here.

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. 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. Follow us on social media: Facebook @VAPassengerRail, X @vapassengerrail, LinkedIn virginia-passenger-rail-authority, and YouTube @virginiapassengerrailauthority.

About University of Virginia’s

Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service

The University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service supports a well-informed citizenry by providing nonpartisan, reliable research and leadership training to individuals and entities that serve the public good. The Cooper Center’s staff are experts in in public management, demography, economics and public finance, policy, political science, mediation, leadership and organizational development, survey research, and more. For more information, please visit http://www.coopercenter.org/.

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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.

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Bridge is flagship of Transforming Rail in Virginia Initiative

RICHMOND — The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA), together with 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, today participated in a groundbreaking ceremony for the state’s Long Bridge Project. The largest of the Commonwealth’s Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) projects, Long Bridge is a $2.3 billion infrastructure improvement which will provide increased capacity for passenger rail over the Potomac River.

The new two-track railroad bridge will connect Arlington, Virginia with Washington, DC allowing for the expansion of rail service to meet future demand. Construction activities including site preparation will begin over the next few weeks with large-scale construction beginning in 2025. The project is scheduled for completion in 2030. The new bridge will be constructed adjacent to the existing bridge, a 119-year-old river crossing that currently operates at 98% capacity during peak periods – and will relieve one of the largest rail traffic bottlenecks on the East Coast. Further, the new bridge will aid the state in separating passenger rail from freight rail, improving the on-time performance for both.

“In Virginia, our crippling traffic has truly become a bipartisan issue, and the Long Bridge groundbreaking represents our bipartisan solution,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of the VPRA. “But it’s not just Virginians who will benefit. Travelers from Boston to Miami will feel the effects of this project, and through our Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative, VPRA’s capital investments will add $7.2 billion to our economy.”

Transforming Rail is a national model for state-supported passenger rail service that will give Virginians an alternative to driving along congested highways and interstates. The initiative calls for moving Virginians by using an existing rail corridor and building new infrastructure. When complete, TRV will enable the state’s Amtrak Virginia service to offer a total of 13 daily roundtrips up from eight currently, traveling throughout the state and connecting to the Northeast Corridor.

VPRA began its TRV expansion by purchasing rail right-of-way from freight partners, CSX and Norfolk Southern. In the past two years, VPRA has acquired nearly 500 miles of railroad right-of-way in corridors along I-95, I-64, I-85, I-81, and I-66. Just last month, VPRA signed a new deal with Norfolk Southern to purchase the Manassas Line, and gain access to their Main Line for service to the New River Valley. By purchasing railroad right-of-way, VPRA now has the unique opportunity to own these valuable assets and further enhance rail capacity. With the Norfolk Southern agreement as well as a similar 2021 agreement with CSX, VPRA can now work with VRE to expand their service on both the Manassas and Fredericksburg Lines including offering evening and weekend trains. One key milestone to the second wave of VRE expansion is completion of the Long Bridge project.

Virginia launched its first state-supported train on October 1, 2009 – a roundtrip between Washington, DC and Lynchburg. Ridership that first year was expected to be about 30,000 passengers. However, when more than 100,000 passengers traveled, it was clear that passenger rail was something all Virginians wanted and needed.

Since that first year, ridership has grown as service has expanded. During calendar year 2023, more than 1.32 million passengers traveled on Amtrak Virginia and so far this calendar year, ridership is up 7.3% compared to last year. Currently, Amtrak Virginia offers one seat rides from Virginia to New York or Boston along with other destinations on the Northeast Corridor, with three daily roundtrips from Norfolk, two daily roundtrips from Roanoke and Newport News, and one daily roundtrip from Richmond.

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, 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.

Follow us on social media: Facebook @VAPassengerRail, X @vapassengerrail, LinkedIn virginia-passenger-rail-authority, and YouTube @virginiapassengerrailauthority.

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New agreement also provides access to Norfolk Southern’s Main Line for service expansion to the New River Valley

RICHMOND — The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) today announced it has purchased the Manassas Line from Norfolk Southern Corporation, furthering VPRA’s mission to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth. Through this new agreement, approved last week by VPRA’s Board of Directors, VPRA also gained access to the railroad’s main line (N-Line) in Christiansburg, a key component to planned service expansion to the New River Valley.

The purchase of the Manassas Line will aid VPRA in expanding Virginia Railway Express (VRE) service with evening and weekend frequencies. Combined with the 2021 agreement with CSX, which provides for greater options on VRE’s Fredericksburg Line, VPRA can now support VRE as it moves from a commuter rail service with limited morning and evening trains during the weekdays to a regional rail service with trains throughout the weekday and into the weekends.

With access to the N-Line, Virginians in the New River Valley will have state-supported Amtrak Virginia service much sooner that previously planned and at a lower cost. By expanding service from Roanoke to Christiansburg on the N-Line, VPRA will use existing infrastructure with a focus on developing a station stop at the Cambria site which previously served the community from 1904 to 1979.

“This new agreement with Norfolk Southern allows passenger rail to reach Christiansburg years earlier and at a better location,” said Secretary of Transportation Shep Miller. “It also includes the acquisition of the Manassas Line, which will provide tremendous value to the Commonwealth—particularly Northern Viriginia—by not only supporting intercity rail, but also enabling VRE to implement night and weekend service to better meet customer demand. The deal achieves all of this while saving nearly $100 million. I commend Norfolk Southern for working closely with the Commonwealth to arrive at this much improved result.”

“Together with Norfolk Southern, we have worked hard to put together an agreement that brings more service to Northern Virginia, new service to the New River Valley, and makes rail a strong part of Virginia’s future transportation mix,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA. “We look forward to furthering our partnership with them to develop passenger rail service that travels where Virginians want to go when they want to go.”

“This agreement is proof of what’s possible when freight and passenger railroads work together,” said Norfolk Southern Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Mike McClellan. “We appreciate the partnership from VPRA and look forward to continuing to work together to make this service to Christiansburg a reality as soon as possible.”

VPRA and Norfolk Southern first began detailed discussions on this agreement back in the winter. As VPRA developed plans to return passenger rail to the New River Valley, it became clear that service along the N-Line was the most cost effective and timely alternative. In addition, public input also suggested that the N-Line option with service to Cambria was strongly supported by the local community.

The inclusion of the Manassas Line in the agreement provided VPRA with an avenue to help VRE adapt to a change in commuting trends and offer evening and weekend service, which was also strongly supported by passengers. Through this agreement and the one finalized in 2021 with CSX and VPRA, VRE now has the ability to expand service on the Manassas and Fredericksburg Lines to meet the needs of more Virginians.

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.

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New facility will enhance the customer travel experience

RICHMOND —

Offering an improved, enhanced, and accessible experience, the Newport News Transportation Center will open on Aug. 22 for customers traveling on Amtrak Virginia and the regional bus system. Amtrak, the city of Newport News, Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA), CSX, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), and Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) partnered on the multimodal project.

“This opening is a significant milestone in our efforts to improve our service, trains, stations and amenities to provide customers an exceptional experience,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said. “We are grateful for the support from CSX and our city, state and federal partners for investing in this project and maximizing opportunities to help bring improvements to advance passenger rail growth in the Hampton Roads region.”

The center, located at 500-B Bland Blvd., will provide two daily Amtrak Virginia roundtrips between Newport News and Richmond, Alexandria, Washington, D.C., and cities in the Northeast. The center will also serve as a transfer point for Amtrak Thruway Bus Service, extending travel to Norfolk and Virginia Beach, and for Hampton Roads Transit, taxi service and shuttles to and from the Newport News-Williamsburg Airport.

“The opening of the Newport News Transportation Center is a shining example of the future of passenger rail in Virginia and what can be accomplished with strong partnerships between stakeholders,” Executive Director of VPRA DJ Stadtler said. “Thanks to the efforts of the USDOT, FRA, DRPT, VDOT, Amtrak, CSX, and the city of Newport News plus numerous contractors, the Newport News community now has a transportation center that will welcome residents and visitors alike for many years to come.”

VPRA supports Amtrak Virginia service operating along four corridors from Norfolk, Richmond, Newport News, and Roanoke to Washington, D.C., and continuing to Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York and Boston. The new transportation center comes as the service is experiencing record ridership, making the Commonwealth one of the most popular travel destinations on the Amtrak national network.

“The Newport News Transportation Center is a landmark achievement for our city and a testament to the power of collaboration. This state-of-the-art facility not only enhances our region’s connectivity but also reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience for all,” Mayor of Newport News Phillip Jones said. “As we look forward to the many benefits this center will offer, I want to express my sincere appreciation to all the partners involved in making this vision a reality. I am excited to welcome passengers to a new chapter of accessible and efficient transportation in Newport News.”

Customers will access a parking lot and bus area with fully illuminated and accessible pathways leading to the building. All entrances are equipped with automatic doors. Customers will enjoy a 3,450-square-foot waiting area, vending machines, restrooms and Amtrak employees who will offer assistance at the ticket counter.

Train status and boarding information will be available through the state-of-the-art Passenger Information Display System (PIDS). The PIDS communicates train status, origin and destination stations, and other information and features bright, new LCD displays that are easier to read and will synchronize audio and visual messaging in the station.

“The Federal Railroad Administration is excited about the new Newport News Transportation Center, and we are proud of our work with Amtrak and others to provide more Virginians access to the passenger rail service they need and deserve,” FRA Administrator Amit Bose said. “As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and with funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are investing billions of dollars in intercity passenger rail projects and planning activities across the nation.”

Customers will use accessible paths to the level-boarding platform, which are equipped with guardrails and signs. Along the platform’s edge is an accessible yellow tactile surface strip, which serves as a hazard warning to alert customers who are blind or have low vision.

A high-level platform aligns with the train and provides a safer and faster way for all customers to board and depart the train.

In addition to a new station and platform, the project also includes the construction of a maintenance facility where crews will service and clean trains in preparation for the next day’s departures.

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine:

“I’ve long championed the expansion and improvement of passenger rail service because it helps Virginians get where they need to go, boosts our economy, and reduces traffic. I’m proud to have secured $1.2 million in congressionally directed spending to push this project forward. With improved and more accessible facilities and state-of-the-art passenger information display systems, the Newport News Transportation Center will make travel more convenient for Virginians and travelers from across the East Coast.”

U.S. Senator Mark Warner:

“When my colleagues and I got together to draft and negotiate the bipartisan infrastructure law, we imagined better-connected communities and projects like this one, that allow Virginians to get from point A to point B safely and efficiently. I commend Amtrak, the city of Newport News, the Commonwealth of Virginia and everyone involved in making this facility a reality. I will continue working to support and expand public transportation across the country.”

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.

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Grant will fund Long Bridge and Phase II Projects

RICHMOND – The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) today announced it has been awarded a $729 million grant by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) through its Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program (FSP-National). The grant will aid VPRA in completing the final design and construction of Long Bridge and all Phase 2 projects of the Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) initiative.

“This grant is great news for Virginians,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA. “The full funding of our Transforming Rail in Virginia Phase II projects, in particular, Long Bridge will result in a transformative increase in rail travel in the Commonwealth and along the East Coast. VPRA is grateful for the immense support we have received from our Virginia senators and Congressional delegation for this initiative. Their support has been immeasurable.”

“These rail projects will improve fluidity for freight and passengers not only in Virginia, but up and down the eastern seaboard. They will be a game-changer for our growing economy, world-class port, and top regional destinations,” said Secretary of Transportation Shep Miller. “I’d like to thank the VPRA team—especially Board Chair Jen DeBruhl and Executive Director DJ Stadtler—and our federal partners for helping us jumpstart these key projects.”

“This $729 million grant to advance rail projects in Virginia, including the critical construction of a new Long Bridge, is a huge win for not just Virginia, but the entire East Coast,” said Jennifer DeBruhl, Chair of the VPRA Board and Director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation. “This investment in an important rail corridor is fundamental to the Commonwealth’s economic future and will significantly improve commuter and passenger rail service as well as freight flow.”

The TRV initiative would not be possible without 1) the forward-thinking legislation passed by the Virginia General Assembly in 2020 that funded the vast majority of the initiative and created VPRA; 2) the series of real estate, funding, infrastructure, and passenger rail service agreements VPRA signed in 2021 with CSX, Amtrak, and VRE; and 3) the support of the Governor, the Secretary of Transportation, the General Assembly, and the Commonwealth Transportation Board.

In Northern Virginia, the initiative will separate passenger and freight rail operations from L’Enfant Plaza in Washington, DC to Spotsylvania County just south of Fredericksburg. Separating these two distinct services will improve on-time performance for both. Five projects will be completed using the funds:

• Long Bridge: Final design and construction of approximately 1.8 miles of improvements between Arlington, VA and Washington, DC including five rail bridges, one pedestrian/bicycle bridge over the Potomac River and the replacement of a pedestrian bridge over Maine Avenue SW, as well as related railroad infrastructure;
• L’Enfant Fourth Track and Station Improvements: Final design and construction of approximately 1 mile of additional mainline track through and around the L’Enfant VRE Station and improvements to the existing station platform;
• Neabsco Creek to Woodbridge Third Track (Siding D): Final design and construction of 3.1 miles of third track in Prince William County, VA;
• Aquia Creek Third Track South (Siding E): Final design and construction of approximately 2.3 miles of third track in Stafford County, VA;
• Crossroads Third Track (Siding F): Final design and construction of approximately 4 miles of third track in Spotsylvania County, VA.

Completion of TRV’s Phase 2 projects will allow for three new roundtrip Amtrak Virginia state-supported trains in 2030. That will be in addition to the current eight roundtrips and the two that are scheduled to launch in 2026 for a total of 13 daily roundtrips by 2030 – with nearly hourly service between Richmond and Washington, D.C. It will also allow for an increase in the number of VRE frequencies with more weekend and late-night options as well as the first step to enabling future pass-through MARC service between Maryland and Alexandria, VA.

Amtrak Virginia, the state-supported passenger rail service, continues to set ridership records. In October, 125,689 passengers traveled — an increase of 20.1% over last October and the highest ridership ever in October since Amtrak Virginia service began in 2009. Currently, Amtrak Virginia service offers three daily roundtrips between Norfolk and Washington, DC, two daily roundtrips between both Roanoke and Washington, and Newport News and Washington, and one daily roundtrip between Richmond and the nation’s capital.

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.

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Bypass to alleviate rail congestion in Northern Virginia

RICHMOND — The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) today announced it has been awarded a $100 million grant by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in support of its Franconia-Springfield Bypass Project.  As part of the Federal Railroad Administration’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grants program, the $100 million grant will advance final design and construction of the Bypass Project.

The Franconia-Springfield Bypass will alleviate train interference at one of the most congested points in Virginia – between Fredericksburg and Washington, DC.  Through the $405 million project, VPRA and partners will construct an approximately 0.9-mile-long, dedicated passenger rail bridge located just south of the Franconia-Springfield Metro station.

The bridge, which will cross over two existing freight tracks, will be owned by VPRA and will allow passenger trains to cross over the existing freight tracks to reach station stops on the opposite side. The project will provide a connection for passenger trains between the west side of the corridor north of the bridge and the east side of the corridor south of the bridge, providing improved service for both passenger and freight trains through the area. The bypass will further VPRA’s mission to create two separate rail corridors through the area, one for passenger trains and one for freight trains and will serve both Amtrak as well as Virginia Railway Express (VRE) trains.  Construction is expected to begin in 2024 and last two years.

“This grant is a big win for Virginia. The Bypass will improve fluidity for our freight railroads and enable more passenger service in one of the most heavily trafficked areas of the Commonwealth,” stated Secretary of Transportation Shep Miller. “I am pleased the FRA recognizes this corridor’s tremendous importance to interstate commerce and travel not only within Virginia, but along the entire East Coast.”

“Connecting communities within Virginia with safe and affordable transportation options is what we do,” said Jennifer DeBruhl, Director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation and Board Chair of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority Board.  “This FRA CRISI grant will aid VPRA in completing an important piece of their Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative, the Franconia-Springfield Bypass – an infrastructure improvement that will benefit not only Virginians but all who travel by rail through the Commonwealth.”

“The Franconia-Springfield Bypass Project represents the future of rail in Northern Virginia. Creating this dedicated passenger rail corridor is a crucial step toward alleviating congestion and offering commuters more choices,” said Monica Backmon, Chief Executive Officer, Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA).  “While NVTA’s nearly $36 million investment in the bypass and platform improvements has been instrumental, the federal funding secured through FRA’s CRISI grant is the driving force behind making this vision a reality.”

“The Franconia-Springfield Bypass is a vital part of VPRA’s plan to improve and increase passenger rail service in Northern Virginia by creating a rail corridor dedicated to passenger rail.  We could not do this without the support of our Virginia Congressional Delegation, and we thank them for their dedication to passenger rail in the Commonwealth,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority.  “Virginians are increasingly seeking an alternative to the state’s crippling traffic, and with the aid of this CRISI grant from the FRA, we will be able to complete the bypass and offer passenger rail service that is more consistent, more reliable, and more predictable.”

VPRA’s Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative launched in 2021 with a goal to expand the availability of passenger rail throughout the Commonwealth.  Once the first phase of projects — including the Franconia-Springfield Bypass Project — are complete, additional Amtrak Virginia and VRE frequencies will be available with more weekend and new, late-night options.

Amtrak Virginia, the state-supported passenger rail service, continues to set ridership records.  In August, 130,998 passengers traveled on the state’s four corridors, exceeding the previous record set in July when 125,488 passengers traveled.  Currently, Amtrak Virginia service offers three daily roundtrips between Norfolk and Washington, DC, two daily roundtrips between both Roanoke and Washington, and Newport News and Washington, and one daily roundtrip between Richmond and the nation’s capital.

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.

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Will aid in growing demand for rail

RICHMOND — Late last month Congress passed FY2023 Government Funding Legislation with nearly $200 million to Virginia in Congressionally-Directed Spending to fund local community projects. Among the transportation projects to receive funding are two sponsored by the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA). These projects — the New River Valley Passenger Service Extension and the Newport News Transportation Center — received $3.2 million, combined, in dedicated federal funding.

These state-supported rail projects will positively impact Amtrak Virginia’s rail service that continues to set records. Ridership in November 2022 topped 112,800 passengers, a 37.7% increase over (pre-pandemic) 2019, and the highest November ridership since Virginia launched its state-supported service in 2009.

“The support rail received in this legislation shows bipartisan support for including rail as a part of our transportation network,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA. “Here in the Commonwealth, we are working to not only provide high-quality passenger rail service and facilities to communities we currently serve, such as Newport News, but to expand service to communities that currently do not have rail service like the New River Valley. With ridership continuing to grow there is a definite need for more rail options.”

The New River Valley Passenger Extension received $2 million to support the extension of passenger rail from Roanoke through the New River Valley to Christiansburg for the first time since 1979. The project began with the Western Rail Initiative Agreement between VPRA and Norfolk Southern through which the Commonwealth purchased 28 miles of right-of-way and tracks along the V Line from Salem Crossovers west of Roanoke to Merrimac (Christiansburg). VPRA plans to improve the existing rail infrastructure including track and signal upgrades, which will allow for passenger rail service to the New River Valley as soon as 2026. It is estimated that the new service will draw 77,300 to 87,100 passengers per year to the future New River Valley station stop.

In addition, the Newport News Transportation Center received $1.2 million from the legislation. This initiative is a new, $47 million multi-modal facility that will serve Amtrak – including two state-supported roundtrips daily, with a third roundtrip coming in 2026 per agreements between VPRA, CSX, and Amtrak – as well as taxis, expanded bus service and shuttles to and from the Newport News/Williamsburg Airport. It will offer modern amenities, more parking, and will be energy efficient as well as being compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Construction on the center began in July 2020, and it is expected to welcome its first travelers in late 2023. The center represents a partnership between the City of Newport News, VPRA, the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).

For more information on these and all of VPRA’s projects, please visit our website at vapassengerrailauthority.org.

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 passenger rail service as an integrated, affordable, and convenient travel option and plays a critical role in mitigating current and future traffic congestion on Virginia’s highways, promoting economic development, and connecting communities by increasing passenger rail capacity, services, and ridership.

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