Spanberger, Buttigieg, Warner Break Ground on VA Rail Project

Congresswoman’s Support Enables $729 Million Federal Funding for New Long Bridge between D.C. & Virginia

Groundbreaking of Long Bridge in Arlington, Virginia

ARLINGTON, Va. — U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger, alongside U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Senators Mark Warner, Tim Kaine, U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly, and local officials, celebrated the groundbreaking of a new Long Bridge. This bridge connects Arlington, Virginia, with Washington, D.C.

Transforming Rail in Virginia Phase 2 Projects

The new two-track bridge is part of the $729 million federally funded Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) Phase 2. Adjacent to the current bridge, it will segregate passenger and freight rail traffic, dedicating the existing bridge primarily to freight. This strategic infrastructure investment is set to create over 36,000 jobs.

Impact of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

“‘Infrastructure Week’ was once a joke,” stated Spanberger. “Passing bipartisan legislation has real effects on Virginians, especially those along the I-95 corridor using Amtrak and VRE.” This project exemplifies how the bipartisan infrastructure law benefits communities by improving the rail infrastructure.

Key Features and Future Rail Expansion

In December 2023, Virginia officials announced the federal funding secured for TRV Phase 2. This includes not just the Long Bridge construction but also improvements to L’Enfant Station and additional tracks in crucial areas like Prince William and Spotsylvania Counties. These enhancements aim to ease bottlenecks and expand rail capacity.

Future Rail Services and Grant Program

The upgrades will enhance Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express services between D.C. and Raleigh, North Carolina, paving the way for future rail services to the New River Valley and Bristol. Funding was granted via the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant Program, made possible by the bipartisan infrastructure law.

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