Express bus routes could fill in for a daily Amtrak train from Norfolk to Washington D.C. starting in early January, as the Long Bridge project redefines transportation options for riders from Hampton Roads. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Amtrak service changes in Norfolk during bridge work
Photo: Amtrak

Amtrak modifications associated with Long Bridge project

The Long Bridge expansion, which costs $2.3 billion, aims at doubling rail traffic across the Potomac River, boosting reliability for both freight and passenger services. Construction limitations will, however, disrupt afternoon and morning schedules for trains from Norfolk.

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Virginia Passenger Rail Authority officials explained that bridge operations presently operate at 98% capacity. As such, they need to adapt service to remain in use during construction, for instance, by using bus substitutions and modified schedules.

Norfolk ridership and alternative proposals

Norfolk is among the region’s busier stations and served more than 250,000 riders in the past year. Although Newport News and Williamsburg together accounted for more than 172,000 riders, the reality of providing constant rail access throughout construction shines through.

To create the least disruption, the state railroad authority is mulling two express bus routes connecting Norfolk and Newport News to Washington directly. Besides, these buses would utilize HOT lanes to maintain the timing competitiveness of the rail service.

Concerns over long-term passenger impact

Regional leaders and board members have expressed concerns that operating buses in place of trains would discourage long-term ridership. Administrators have reassured that the measure is short-term and for the purpose of sustaining key connections until construction finishes in 2030.

Community leaders, including former Rep. Thelma Drake, urged flexible scheduling to ensure passenger loyalty. Therefore, the officials will keep considering the options, and the choice is on the docket for the Oct. 7 board meeting.

Source: www.wavy.com

How will the Long Bridge project affect service by Amtrak in Norfolk?

One daily round trip on Amtrak from Norfolk may be postponed during construction and instead express buses utilized in place of the train for direct service to Washington D.C.

Why suggest express buses rather than rearranging trains?

Trains won’t operate at specific construction times by virtue of stringent norms on vibration and noise. Express buses offer a schedule-competitive alternative without disrupting the working schedule.

How long will these service modifications persist?

Construction of Long Bridge will continue until 2030. The temporary alterations will occur at affected operating hours alone, thereby making service modifications as small as possible.

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