Virginia Railway Express
This is the final part of our three-part series exploring Virginia Railway Express’ vision for the future. Thank you for following along.
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Editor’s Note:
This is the second in our three-part series on the future of Virginia Railway Express (VRE). We’re breaking down VRE’s bold System Plan 2050 — and what it means for you.
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At the April 18, 2025, VRE Operations Board meeting, planners unveiled a sweeping System Plan that would transform VRE from a traditional commuter service into a true regional backbone — connecting communities across the region with frequent, reliable rail service.
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Go to Surging Ridership on VRE and OmniRide Buses Strains Capacity Amid Funding Challenges
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The project, assigned to Fresh Air Cleaning LLC, encompasses extensive preparation work, including sandblasting and sealing, before repainting. This initiative is part of VRE’s ongoing life-cycle maintenance strategy to uphold and improve its facilities.
During the public comment segment of the March 2025 board meeting, Prince William County resident Alfred Williams, 84, highlighted the challenges senior passengers face when purchasing tickets at the station.
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Among the most talked-about topics were the introduction of Saturday service, a crucial funding agreement for the Manassas Line, solutions for parking challenges at stations, and significant infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of Seminary Yard and the Long Bridge upgrades. These initiatives are designed to improve the commuter experience and accommodate a growing ridership base.
Saturday Service: A Long-Awaited Step Forward
Key enhancements include a 550-foot platform extension, a new 840-foot island platform, and three elevator towers connected by pedestrian bridges. STV designed the necessary track improvements and a 714-foot retaining wall to support a third track, minimizing disruptions to MCBQ. This project, part of a long-standing partnership between STV and VRE, reflects collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, Amtrak, and CSX Transportation.
Press release:
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As the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) heads into 2025, its proposed budget reflects its challenges and opportunities in a post-COVID world. The budget discussed at the October 18, 2024, Operations Board meeting outlines plans to support ridership recovery, maintain reliable service, and position VRE for future growth as a regional rail provider.
VRE, like many public transit systems, saw a significant decline in ridership during the pandemic. However, the 2025 budget aims to address passengers’ slow but steady recovery by investing in enhanced service offerings and critical infrastructure projects. These efforts are intended to transform VRE from a commuter-focused system to a broader regional transportation network.
During the October 18, 2024, VRE Operations Board meeting, it was announced that invitations have been sent out for the event, with all necessary travel details, including train schedules, provided to ensure smooth participation. The excitement surrounding the completion of these upgrades was evident, with board members and VRE staff expressing their enthusiasm for what the improvements will mean for the station and the surrounding community.
“I’m very excited about the upcoming ribbon-cutting at Quantico. This project has been in the works for quite some time, and we’re thrilled to see it finally come to fruition,” said Prince William County Supervisor Andrea Bailey, who sits on the VRE Operations Board.