The state and Norfolk Southern Corp. have signed an agreement to upgrade the company's railroad tracks between Petersburg and Norfolk so passenger trains can run on them.
The agreement is an important step in providing Norfolk with daily passenger rail service for the first time since 1977, according to Gov. Bob McDonnell.
The state hopes to begin the passenger rail service from Norfolk in 2013.
But Virginia does not have a revenue source yet to pay for the train's operation.
"Keep in mind this train won't be up until 2013, which gives Virginia time to identify dedicated operating funds," said Courtney L. Ware, spokeswoman for the state Department of Rail and Public Transportation.
Funded by an $87 million state Rail Enhancement Fund grant, the track work includes improved signaling, track extensions and connections, passenger train turning and servicing facilities, and a track and platform near Norfolk's Harbor Park.
The project also includes construction of a new connection between the Norfolk Southern and CSX tracks near Petersburg.
The project is already being designed, and construction will begin in 2011.
The trains will be part of Amtrak's Virginia regional service, and will operate at up to 79 mph between Norfolk and Petersburg.
"It is important that Virginia continue to expand intercity passenger rail service in our major population centers, such as Hampton Roads, that will only continue to grow over the next few years," Ware said.
Less than a year ago, Norfolk Southern proposed the improvements that would allow for three round-trip trains on the Norfolk-Petersburg line, in return for the state paying for work.
Additional departures would be introduced as funding allows, the state said.
About the time Norfolk Southern proposed the improvements, Virginia received $75 million in federal stimulus funds for one of its high-speed rail projects near Quantico. The federal government has not yet agreed to release the money for that construction work.
pbacque@timesdispatch.com
(804) 649-6813
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement