DELEGATE TOSCANO ANNOUNCES MAJOR RAIL INITIATIVES -- May 9, 2008

May 9, 2008 - In anticipation of Amtrak National Train Day on May 10th, Delegate David J. Toscano (D-Charlottesville) today announced several significant rail initiatives that will likely affect the Charlottesville/Albemarle area. First, the recently passed state budget includes $2.2 million in new money per year for major roadbed improvements to the CSX railroad lines operated by the Buckingham Branch, which serve passenger rail from Washington to Chicago through Charlottesville. "If we can improve the roadbed, we can increase the speed and efficiency of trains, thereby providing a higher level of customer service to Amtrak passengers," Toscano said.

"This funding represents a major investment in this process." The Rail Enhancement Fund, created by Governor Warner, will receive $26 million in fiscal year 2009 and continuing appropriations in the future. This fund directs investments to freight and passenger rail improvements that will have significant public benefits. The Rail Preservation Program, which benefits Short Line carriers, will receive $3 million.

Second, the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) will complete a Statewide Rail Plan by July 2008 which will include considerations of improved passenger service and a process for determining the appropriate balance of resource allocation between the movement of freight and passengers on Virginia's rail system. Citizens are encouraged to comment on the plan. These recommendations shall be completed no later than September 30, 2008. The final report will be submitted to House and Senate Committees by December 15, 2008.

Third, DPRT and Amtrak have identified two potential opportunities to expand passenger service in Virginia. One of these is the corridor from Lynchburg to Washington DC. It has an estimated ridership of 33,100 per year and would require $1,863,000 yearly for operations. Delegate Toscano is working with representatives up and down the Lynchburg-Washington DC corridor to gather support for funding of this initiative.

"This is an exciting time to be closely involved in increasing rail service in the Commonwealth," Toscano stated. "Rising fuel prices have placed more emphasis on our need to establish and expand our ability to move both people and freight economically and efficiently. A stronger rail system would help get both passenger cars and freight trucks off the roads and would encourage tourism and economic growth in areas served by the new trains."

The upcoming months will yield new developments in the area. If you would like to learn more about rail service in the Commonwealth please see CvilleRail.com or contact Delegate Toscano at deldtoscano@house.state.va.us, by phone at (434) 220-1660 or by mail at 211 E. High St. Charlottesville, VA 22902.