Virginia Rail Expansion: How TRV is Shaping Railway Infrastructure

Introduction

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) has commenced a series of major rail infrastructure projects in Alexandria, as part of the Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) program. The projects, undertaken in collaboration with the City of Alexandria, Amtrak, the Virginia Railway Express (VRE), and CSX, aim to expand rail capacity, enhance safety, and support the growth of passenger and freight services throughout Northern Virginia.

Project Overview

The project portfolio will enhance the existing rail corridor by introducing new infrastructure. This will allow passenger and freight trains to operate independently, leading to higher frequencies and improved journey reliability. The TRV initiative is designed to enable the Commonwealth to increase state-supported Amtrak Virginia daily roundtrips, alongside expanding VRE services. The Alexandria program encompasses four key project components.

Timeline and Funding

All works are scheduled in accordance with the TRV Long Bridge Project, with an expected completion date of 2030. Funding for the projects is being provided by the Commonwealth of Virginia, Amtrak, VRE, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

Stakeholder Contributions

DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA, highlighted the transformative impact of the projects on the rail corridor through Old Town Alexandria, emphasizing the collaborative approach with partners Amtrak, VRE, CSX, and the City of Alexandria. City of Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins emphasized the benefits for the entire community. Amtrak Executive Vice President of Strategy & Planning Jennifer Mitchell underscored the importance of infrastructure investment in expanding passenger rail in Virginia. VRE Acting CEO Dallas Richards highlighted the positive impact on the passenger experience at Alexandria Union Station. Tammy Butler, Vice President and General Counsel at CSX, noted the removal of a longstanding chokepoint. Senator Tim Kaine welcomed the progress, highlighting the importance of rail infrastructure for economic growth and easing congestion.

Conclusion

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) is undertaking rail infrastructure projects in Alexandria, in partnership with the City of Alexandria, Amtrak, the Virginia Railway Express (VRE), and CSX, as part of the Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) program. The projects are scheduled to align with the TRV Long Bridge Project, which is due for completion in 2030, and are funded by the Commonwealth of Virginia, Amtrak, VRE, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

Company Summary

Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA): The VPRA is leading the Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) program, which includes infrastructure projects aimed at improving rail service.

City of Alexandria: The City of Alexandria is partnering with VPRA on rail infrastructure projects to improve transportation.

Amtrak: Amtrak is involved in the Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) program, contributing to infrastructure improvements and service expansion.

Virginia Railway Express (VRE): VRE is a partner in the rail infrastructure projects, focusing on enhancing passenger experience and service efficiency.

CSX: CSX is participating in the rail infrastructure projects, contributing to capacity expansion and operational improvements.