In 2019, Amtrak Virginia celebrated its 10-year anniversary of state-sponsored service. Two years later, the rail service is excited for what’s to come, and is planning for changes that will transform the way you travel in Northern Virginia and beyond.
If you live or work in this area, you know that the roadways in NoVA are overcrowded. In fact, we’re home to what has been named the single worst traffic hotspot in the US. Left unchecked, our roads are bound to get even more congested in the future. By 2040, Virginia is expected to be the 10th-most populous state, at more than 10 million people. This growth means more passenger travel and freight transport, more emissions, more traffic crashes, and more road upkeep. We aren’t going to pave our way out of this problem. Virginia needs a more efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly way to handle the population demand.
Hello, train travel! Virginia is taking action to improve and expand Amtrak service in the Commonwealth with the Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative (see Transformingrailva.com). Through this effort, Amtrak state-sponsored service will double in the next 10 years – allowing for less traffic congestion, and more enjoyable opportunities to travel in Virginia. Amtrak Virginia will also offer hourly service between DC and Richmond, will increase service to Newport News and Norfolk, and plans to expand into the New River Valley. Ultimately, Transforming Rail in Virginia will be a pathway to improvements in rail travel throughout the state, and will benefit Virginians for years to come.
The benefits of taking Amtrak Virginia are many, including safety, comfort, environmental sustainability, multi-tasking, family time, and affordability.
Tired of those tiny seats and crowded airplanes? Amtrak Virginia has big seats. Each train’s large, cushy seats and generous legroom make for unparalleled comfort. And of course, every seat comes with a spectacular view of Virginia, so you can just sit back and enjoy the ride. Quiet cars offer an ideal spot to relax or focus on work. You can even reserve your own private room, and nap your way to your destination.
Opting for the train can also cut down on the wear and tear on your car–and in some cases, it can cut your commuting time, since you won’t be stuck in traffic jams on the highway. And unlike plane travel, there are no long TSA lines or baggage check lines–you can simply purchase your ticket, step on, and glide to your destination.
Those destinations include many of Virginia’s best spots for a quick getaway. So you can head out and experience the emerging craft beer scene in Richmond. Explore the train-centric downtown of Roanoke. Check out the rich history of Charlottesville, the coastal vibe of Norfolk, or go all the way back to the 18th century in Williamsburg. With Amtrak’s Virginia Anytime Fares, you can save 15 percent on trips throughout Virginia and DC, and students save 25 percent on tickets.
Exciting times are on track for the next 10 years–but there’s no need to wait to ride Amtrak! Book your travel today at amtrak.com/virginia to take the trip you’ve been putting off. Where to, Virginia?
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