Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) Long Bridge Project Impacts Amtrak Service
Effective January 12, 2026Beginning January 12, 2026, the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) will begin a five-year project to construct a new Potomac River rail bridge, which will affect passenger trains traveling between Washington, DC and Alexandria. Schedules will be adjusted to accommodate necessary daytime work windows.
Service Impacts
- Streamlined Travel Options: One round-trip between Washington, DC and Norfolk, and one round-trip between Washington, DC and Richmond Main Street, will be removed to optimize scheduling.
- Expanded Connectivity: Daily bus service will enhance links between Washington, DC, Newport News, Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
- Improved Coordination: Carolinian, Palmetto, Silver Meteor and Cardinal train schedules will be adjusted for better alignment and efficiency.
Project Benefits
- The project will create a four-track river crossing, doubling capacity.
- Result of a $5.8B capital investment to improve safety and security along the project corridor
- $6.7B total economic output, creating 33,668 jobs for the region due to the construction and expansion of service.
PSN 1225-120