VPRA, Alexandria, US: Rail Infrastructure Projects & Capacity Boost

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Introduction

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA), in collaboration with the City of Alexandria, Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express (VRE), and CSX, has initiated a series of rail construction projects in Alexandria, US, as announced on November 18, 2025. These projects aim to enhance both passenger and freight services throughout Northern Virginia.

Main Content

Project Overview

The projects include the Alexandria Fourth Track, which involves adding a six-mile stretch of track from Arlington’s Long Bridge Aquatic Center to west of Alexandria Station. Infrastructure improvements also encompass replacing the King Street and Commonwealth Avenue railroad bridges near Alexandria Station.

Bridge Replacement and Station Upgrades

The bridge replacement, with VPRA and CSX completing the design and VRE managing construction, is budgeted at $97.7 million. At Alexandria Station, VRE will upgrade facilities by replacing an at-grade track crossing with a tunnel, integrating platforms with lifts and stairs. Station platforms will be modified to support safer boarding and increased capacity; this work is estimated at $133.7 million.

Transforming Rail in Virginia Program

These projects are part of the Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) program. The TRV initiative is designed to separate passenger and freight train operations, thereby increasing capacity and safety. The program plans to increase state-supported Amtrak Virginia daily roundtrips from eight to 13 and extend VRE service on the Fredericksburg and Manassas lines, including new weekend options. The projects are funded by the Commonwealth of Virginia, Amtrak, VRE, and the Federal Railroad Administration, with all projects scheduled for completion alongside the Long Bridge Project by 2030.

Streetscape and Historical Context

The City of Alexandria is leading streetscape improvements beneath the King Street and Commonwealth Avenue bridges. VPRA was established in 2020 to develop and broaden passenger rail services in Virginia. Since the introduction of state-supported services in 2009 with one daily roundtrip between Washington, DC, and Lynchburg, VA, rail capacity has expanded to eight roundtrips serving 17 Virginia stations plus Washington, DC across four corridors.

Recent Developments

In July 2024, VPRA awarded a $414 million contract to the FlatironDragados and Herzog joint venture (JV) for construction of the Franconia-Springfield Bypass project.

Conclusion

The VPRA, in partnership with the City of Alexandria, Amtrak, VRE, and CSX, has commenced rail improvement projects in Alexandria, US, to enhance passenger and freight services. These initiatives include track expansions, bridge replacements, and station upgrades, all under the Transforming Rail in Virginia program, which aims to improve rail capacity and safety, with completion expected by 2030.

Company Summary

VPRA: The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority was established in 2020 to develop and broaden passenger rail services in Virginia.

Amtrak: Amtrak is a partner in the rail projects.

VRE: Virginia Railway Express is involved in construction and upgrades at Alexandria Station.

CSX: CSX is a partner in the rail projects, involved in bridge design.

City of Alexandria: The City of Alexandria is a partner in the rail projects and is leading streetscape improvements.

FlatironDragados and Herzog: The joint venture (JV) was awarded a $414 million contract for construction of the Franconia-Springfield Bypass project.

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