In a pre-COVID world, Virginia Railway Express (VRE) filled to capacity with most of their trains during the rush hour. One would wonder, why don't they just run more trains? Train tracks and the property they are on are typically owned and controlled by freight railroad companies, such as CSX. This means that passenger trains like Amtrak and VRE are at the mercy of the freight companies as to when and how often they can run their trains.

The "Transforming Rail in Virginia" initiative is striving to change that by creating a means to separate freight and passenger rail in Virginia. The Commonwealth of Virginia, Amtrak, VRE and CSX have finalized agreements on a partnership. This partnership will allow VRE and Amtrak to expand their service hours and frequency. Though the details are complicated, through the acquisition of existing track from CSX and the creation of new track. This is a four-track corridor, with dedicated tracks for each direction. This is so freight and passenger trains from Washington DC to Richmond will be possible.

This opens the possibilities for more VRE trains during the morning and evening commutes. Maybe even trains running on the weekends along with Amtrak service that could run as frequently as every hour.

Social Distancing

As vaccines roll out and commuters start going back to the office, VRE has taken measures to allow for more space between riders. Through the enhanced access to existing tracks, and new construction, like dedicated passenger tracks and a new passenger rail and pedestrian bridge over the Potomac, VRE positions to help Virginia residents get back to the office in our nation's Capitol with more space on trains and increased service moving forward.

Redmon Group displays VRE arrival information on its Transit Displays along the Arlington Metroway in Crystal City. With increased service and travel options, Transit Displays are one way to help make more people aware of transit options. Consequently, this reduces traffic congestion.