Commonwealth Transportation Board Approves New VRE and WMATA Funding Policies
Policies Will Increase Accountability to the Two Transit Systems Essential to Northern Virginians
 RICHMOND — The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) today approved new policies that change the way the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) is funded and reform the governance and funding of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA).
These policies are a result of legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2023. The goal of the legislation was to ensure state funds are allocated effectively and bring more accountability to the performance of both systems. VRE will now be allocated funding based on metrics that are specific to the commuter rail system’s needs. State oversight of WMATA will increase, and the amount the Commonwealth can provide them in operating and capital assistance is capped. These changes are supported by the General Assembly, the Governor, the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC), VRE, and WMATA.
“VRE and WMATA provide essential services to the people who live and work in the region,” said Jennifer DeBruhl, Director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT). “The reforms implemented by CTB will lead to improved transparency, accountability, and financial responsibility. I am proud of the collaborative efforts that led to these policies. Northern Virginia’s transit needs are constantly evolving, and our policies must evolve with it.”
VRE and WMATA play a crucial role in supporting the economy and vitality of the region. The systems connect hundreds of thousands of people every day to jobs, local businesses, doctor’s appointments, and more. The areas near stops draw housing and business developments. The new policies will help ensure VRE and WMATA can operate effectively and best serve all those who rely on them.
Other CTB action:
The CTB today also approved a $336,890 Rail Industrial Access grant to Carolina Ave LLC following DRPT’s recommendation. The grant will fund the rehabilitation of a 4,000-foot rail spur, secure the employment of the 300 current employees, and divert 343 trucks from Virginia highways each year.
Since 2017, DRPT freight rail programs have diverted more than 44 million trucks from Virginia highways. Companies that have Rail Industrial Access grants diverted 28,332 of those trucks during fiscal year 2022. By reducing the number of trucks on the road, DRPT is fulfilling its commitment to reducing road congestion and decreasing harmful emissions in Virginia.
Carolina Ave LLC is applying on behalf of its leasee, TemperPack Technologies, Inc. TemperPack is a manufacturer of sustainable cold-chain packaging products. The spur will be used for incoming raw material from the Midwest. As part of the Rail Industrial Access grant, Carolina Ave LLC is responsible for a 41 percent match toward rail costs. It is estimated that total railroad track construction costs will be $571,000 and total capital investment in the Henrico County facility will be $3.2 million.
The CTB also approved changes to the Transit Ridership Incentive Program (TRIP). Originally, this DRPT-managed program funded two project types: regional connectivity and zero and reduced fare. The General Assembly passed legislation dedicating TRIP funding to two additional project types: improvements to bus amenities and passenger facilities and addressing public safety. This policy provides the framework for the implementation of the additional project types, including eligibility requirements and evaluation criteria.
About the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation
DRPT's mission is to connect and improve the quality of life for all Virginians with innovative transportation solutions. The agency works with rail and public transportation stakeholders to provide service to people throughout Virginia and promotes transportation options to the general public, businesses, and community decision makers. DRPT's vision is a connected Commonwealth with an integrated multimodal network that serves every person, every business, and every need. For more information, please visit www.drpt.virginia.gov.
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