The New River Valley Rail Project represents a significant step in revitalizing Virginia’s rail system. Governor Glenn Youngkin led the groundbreaking ceremony on April 24, 2025, marking the extension of Amtrak service from Roanoke to Christiansburg. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The New River Valley Rail Project represents a significant step in revitalizing Virginia’s rail system. Governor Glenn Youngkin led the groundbreaking ceremony on April 24, 2025, marking the extension of Amtrak service from Roanoke to Christiansburg
Photo: Amtrak

The Significance of the New River Valley Rail Project

This rail extension brings passenger service to the New River Valley for the first time since 1979. Governor Youngkin highlighted the collaborative efforts that made this project possible, noting that it accelerates service restoration years ahead of schedule. The project is set to enhance regional connectivity while reducing costs to Virginia taxpayers.

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Key Components of the New River Valley Rail Project

The rail extension will run along the historic Norfolk & Western line to Christiansburg, with improvements including a renovated station, new platform, parking area, and enhanced access roads. An Amtrak layover facility will be built in Radford, Virginia, with track and signal upgrades.

Projected Costs and Timeline for the New River Valley Rail Project

With an estimated cost of $265.4 million, the project’s full construction is expected to begin this spring, with service slated to launch in 2027. Travel times will be approximately 50 minutes between Christiansburg and Roanoke, and about six hours to Washington, D.C.

Growing Rail Service in Virginia

Virginia’s rail service started in 2009 with a single round trip between Lynchburg and Washington. Since then, ridership has surged from 100,000 to over 343,000 passengers in 2024, demonstrating the growing demand for rail service in the state.

The New River Valley Rail Project is a pivotal part of Virginia’s broader effort to expand and improve rail infrastructure. This initiative will provide Virginians with a faster, more efficient rail alternative, contributing to the state’s continued growth and development.

Source: media.amtrak.com

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