By Domenic Clementi, Military & Veterans Editor
Image: Virginia Railway Express
The Virginia Railway Express recently announced two major developments expected to significantly improve its operating efficiency and provide expanded service and more convenient commuting for its customers.
According to a June 29 press release, VRE has purchased the Seminary Yard train yard and storage facility in Alexandria from the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority for $35.8 million. The acquisition is part of a larger, multi-year, $155 million deal for the transfer of four separate rail infrastructure properties.
Additionally, on July 9, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded VRE $25 million in federal funding through its BUILD (Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development) grant program for improvements and new track construction at VRE's L'Enfant Station.
Setting conditions for System Plan 2050
Together, the two deals support VRE's ambitious System Plan 2050, which would — if all goes according to plan — allow VRE to run 63% more scheduled train service than today. The plan would also introduce weekend service by 2030. VRE currently runs strictly on weekdays.
The purchase of Seminary Yard and the L'Enfant Station improvements give VRE more flexibility and improved maintenance options for its fleet, as well as providing legal easements on its Manassas Line — giving the railroad better control of its daily service. As a commuter rail service overseen by state and regional authorities, VRE relies on obtaining rights of way over private and state-owned trackage to operate.
“L’Enfant Station is the heart of the VRE system, used by nearly half of all VRE riders,” said Katie Choe, VRE Chief Executive Officer. “This $25 million investment allows us to address one of our most critical constraints. Adding a fourth track at this location will relieve congestion, improve on-time performance, and unlock the flexibility we need to grow service for years to come. The L’Enfant Station Improvements and Fourth Track Project is the last piece of the puzzle to unlock the significant service increases beginning in 2030 as part of VRE’s System Plan 2050.”
“On behalf of the VRE Operations Board, I’d like to express my gratitude to our federal partners for recognizing the immense value this project provides both VRE and intercity passenger rail,” said Andrea Bailey, Chair of the VRE Operations Board and Prince William County Potomac District Supervisor. “Entering this period of significant transformation, VRE is steadfast in its commitment to deliver results on a slate of capital projects that revolutionize passenger rail in the region and support long-term growth across the Commonwealth.”
VRE by the numbers
As of 2026, VRE is the 13th largest commuter rail line in the United States, serving one of the most congested transportation corridors in the country. Although its ridership declined by more than half following COVID-19 and the rise of telework, VRE recorded roughly 2.36 million passengers in 2025. As the federal government continues to push for regular daily return to the office, VRE's future growth represents a net positive for Northern Virginia commuters.
Sources: Virginia Railway Express press releases, June 29 and July 9, 2026.
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