WASHINGTON — Virginia leaders on Thursday announced $729 million in new federal funding to support various transportation projects in the commonwealth.
The funding will go toward "Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) Phase 2 projects," which includes a new Long Bridge project connecting Virginia to D.C., improvements to the L’Enfant Metro Station, and laying a third track along sections of the corridor in Prince William, Stafford, and Spotsylvania counties.
Virginia leaders said the existing Long Bridge is "the most significant choke point along the East Coast." They say this expansion is estimated to contribute $1.1 billion annually to the national economy and support 17,750 jobs.
The goal of the TRV projects is to help alleviate bottlenecks, increase capacity, and improve reliability for Virginia commuters, travelers, and freight.
Here's how Virginia leaders say the federal funds will specifically be used:
- Long Bridge Project: Design and construct a new Long Bridge between Arlington and D.C., including five rail bridges and two pedestrian/bicycle bridges. Once completed, the four-track corridor will allow for the separation of passenger and freight rail.
- L’Enfant Fourth Track and Station Improvements: Construct approximately one mile of mainline track through and around L’Enfant Plaza in D.C., VRE’s busiest station, and make improvements to the existing station platform.
- Neabsco Creek to Woodbridge Third Track: Design and construct three miles of a third track in Prince William County.
- Aquia Creek Third Track South: Design and construct approximately two miles of a third track in Stafford County.
- Crossroads Third Track: Design and construct approximately four miles of a third track in Spotsylvania County.
“We’re thrilled we secured federal funding to support the construction of a new Long Bridge across the Potomac River and expand rail capacity and reliability in Virginia,” said Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine (D-Virginia). “This is another example of how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is improving transportation networks, reducing congestion, and supporting economic growth in communities across Virginia and the country.”
The funding was awarded through the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant Program.
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