Welcome. The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) is investigating improved passenger rail service between Richmond and Hampton Roads to ultimately connect to the Southeast, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions as an extension of the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor (SEHSR).
DRPT examined potential routes and possible environmental impacts for more frequent conventional service and higher speed rail service in the Tier I Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Draft EIS was released for public review and comment in December 2009, and in January 2010, public hearings were held to gain feedback on the alternatives under evaluation. On February 17, 2010, based on the evaluation and public comments received, the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) selected Alternative 1 as the preferred alternative for enhanced passenger rail service between Richmond and Hampton Roads. DRPT will complete the Tier I Final EIS document in order to achieve a federal Record of Decision later this year. The FRA Record of Decision will determine the next steps in the federal review process.
DRPT will apply for federal funding to advance the selected alternative. Federal funding and annual operating funds are critical components of the project’s financial plan. Virginia currently has no dedicated source of operating funds for intercity passenger rail service.
