6 hours ago - Business

Virginia seeks public input on future of train travel

Karri Peifer

An aerial view of a city train station with a blue-and-white locomotive on elevated tracks beside a long dark roof over the platform; a red brick clock tower and skyline rise in the background. — A train pulling into Main Street Station. Image: Courtesy of The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority

The Virginia agency dedicated to rail service and public transportation wants to hear from residents about how they want train travel improved inside — and outside — of the state.

Why it matters: If you've got a gripe about train travel, now is the time to share it.

State of play: The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transit's survey will help shape long and short-term investments, per the agency.

It comes as Amtrak Virginia consistently reports record-high passenger ridership in the state, with just under 1.5 million riders in the last fiscal year.
And as Virginia Passenger Rail Authority's embarks on its years-in-the-making Long Bridge Project aimed at speeding up train travel statewide.

Zoom in: The survey asks:

Whether to add or reduce stops in Virginia and beyond the D.C. corridor
Where Virginians want rail service expanded
If rail users would like more amenities at or near stations
Any issues with specific railroad crossings

What's next: The survey is open through Friday, March 27. After that, DRPT will host public meetings for feedback on the survey findings.

💭 Karri's thought bubble: I want to know why it takes three times longer to take the train to Nashville than it does to drive.

And how the "busiest train station in the South" still doesn't have a coffee bar.

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Virginia seeks public input on future of train travel

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