Some long-serving members of the Virginia Railway Express Operations Board — some of whom date back to the founding of the commuter railroad in 1991 — said goodbye.
Sharon Bulova, who represents Fairfax County on the commission, and who is the retiring Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman, served decades on the commission. She described how it took an act of congress to create the commuter railroad, explaining how the host railroads, Norfolk Southern and CSX demanded to be let off the hook an accident were to happen on the tracks used by VRE trains.
“Now, to leave when we’re going to have our own right-of-way, we’re going to be able to take our place at the regional transportation table,” said Bulova.
Just before Christmas, Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam announced a $3.7 billion deal to purchase 350 miles of the railroad right of way for new track to be laid in next to the existing track on the Fredericksburg line. It’ll mean VRE trains will no longer have to fight with CSX for a spot on the rails, allowing VRE to double service by 75%.
The deal will also bring the construction of a nearly new $2 billion Long Bridge across the Potomac River, linking Arlington and Washington, D.C. The bridge will double the capacity of the number of trains that currently travel through the corridor.
Maureen Caddigan, who has a VRE locomotive named for her, is also retiring from public service. “It’s been an honor to be a part of this organization,” she said.
VRE Operations and Arlington County Board Chair Katie Cristol credited Caddigan with opening many doors for women to serve. “I’m grateful for that,” said Cristol.
Caddigan has been the Potomac District Supervisor (formerly Dumfries District) since 1992 and has long advocated for Potomac Shores, a mixed-use neighborhood near Dumfries that is slated to soon have a new VRE station.
“We’re going to take care of Potomac Shores for you,” said Jeanine Lawson, Prince William County’s Brentsville District Supervisor and VRE Operations Board member.
Outgoing Prince William County Coles District Supervisor Marty Nohe is also leaving the VRE board. “For the last 11 years, I’ve got to be the face of the solution of the thing Northern Virginians hate most,” said Nohe. ”Northern Virginians hate traffic like the rest of the world hates Mondays.”
Also departing is Fairfax County Braddock District Supervisor John Cook and Stafford County Rock Hill District Supervisor Wendy Maurer.
“When you serve as long as you have with these people, they become like family… this is an end of an era for this organization,” said Matt Kelly, who serves on the VRE board and on the Fredericksburg City Council. This was the leadership that got us to the long bridge decision yesterday, now passing to a new generation… I hope everyone recognizes the accomplishments you’ve made.”
The new VRE Operations Board is expected to meet in January 2020.
Recent Stories
A judge has temporarily halted timbering near Courthouse Road, where a developer plans to build a large data center. The emergency injunction comes after neighbors raised alarms and Stafford County filed a legal complaint alleging zoning violations and broken land-use promises.
John Williams is the soundtrack of my childhood. So when the Kennedy Center invited my wife and me to Notes and Frames, a performance by the National Symphony Orchestra celebrating classic film scores, I jumped at the chance.
GMU graduate Emmanuel Nwokeabia wins $13,000 for his startup Viralbite, which connects food lovers with restaurants through performance-based influencer marketing.
Thousands of families have now confirmed whether their children will ride the bus next school year, as Stafford County Public Schools continues to implement its new transportation opt-in policy.
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
