Keolis VRE operating contract: VRE deal runs to 2031

Keolis VRE operating contract terms have been renewed, with Virginia Railway Express (VRE) again selecting the French operator to run and maintain its commuter rail services in Virginia’s Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, as reported by Keolis.

Contract term and scope for Virginia Railway Express (VRE)

Also, the new agreement starts with a five-year term through 2031 and includes two additional five-year options that could extend the partnership to 15 years. In addition, from July 2026, Keolis will continue to operate 32 daily trains on weekdays across two lines totaling nearly 150 km of track, and cover approximately 100 passenger cars.

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Separately, more than 100 Keolis employees will be involved in train operation, rolling stock maintenance, and dedicated facility maintenance, according to Keolis North America.

Operation and maintenance in a single Keolis VRE operating contract

The updated Keolis VRE operating contract consolidates operation and maintenance into a single contract, with the aim of supporting a more integrated and efficient organization. At the same time, Keolis will support VRE in implementing “System Plan 2050,” the long-term strategic plan that aims to expand services, modernize infrastructure, and strengthen regional connectivity, as outlined by Railway Pro.

Keolis track record, ISO 9001, and international rail expertise

Meanwhile, Keolis has been operating the VRE network since 2010 and says it has maintained a punctuality rate of over 99%. The operator also notes it has held ISO 9001 certification for its work within VRE since 2015.

Part of the SNCF Group, Keolis is active in the design, operation, and development of rail systems in several countries, including the Netherlands, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and Canada.

“We are honored by Virginia Railway Express’ renewed confidence in us for the coming years. This new contract confirms our rail expertise, built on high standards of safety, operational performance, and service quality,” said Laurence Broseta, CEO International at Keolis.

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