The Loop | January-February

Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation sent this bulletin at 03/30/2026 08:30 AM EDT

New Director, New Loop!

Haven’t these first few months flown by? Some call the start of the year a “test trial” for what’s to come and if that’s the case, DRPT has been off to a running start. From welcoming new leadership to celebrating major milestones and getting out in the community, January and February have set the tone for an exciting year ahead. As you’ll see, 2026 is already picking up steam and we are full speed ahead.

And Happy Transit Operator Appreciation Month! Have you been following along on our social media as we highlight the incredible transit operators across the Commonwealth? These are the people who keep Virginia moving every single day, and we’re proud to celebrate their hard work and dedication. It’s not too late to tune in and show your appreciation.

So buckle up, grab your coffee (or your favorite snack), and enjoy reading this edition of The Loop!

New Director Welcome Breakfast

What’s the best way to welcome a new team member? Food, of course. Especially when it comes to giving the warmest welcome to our new Director, Mariia Zimmerman. The DRPT team gathered for a breakfast filled with pastries, coffee, and great conversation as we officially welcomed Director Zimmerman and kicked off this exciting new chapter together.

Open House at DRPT

The excitement didn’t stop there. With the addition of Deputy Director Allan Fye, we had even more reason to celebrate. On February 2, DRPT opened its doors at our Richmond office to partners and stakeholders from across the Commonwealth for an open house to connect, collaborate, and officially welcome our new leadership team. And yes, food was involved here too.

HRT Microtransit Launch

Tiffany Dubinsky joined Hampton Roads Transit for the launch of their new microtransit service on January 11. While it may not have officially been Take Your Parents to Work Day, Tiffany made it one anyway by bringing her parents along to celebrate this exciting milestone.

ACEC Transportation Reception

Members of DRPT’s executive leadership, including Andrew Wright, Deanna Oware, Beth Levermore, and Emily Stock, attended the American Council of Engineering Companies’ Legislative Reception, alongside Jordan Chapman. The event brought together transportation professionals and leaders to connect and discuss key initiatives shaping the industry.

ACEC Virginia Engineering Excellence Awards

Alan Saunders attended the American Council of Engineering Companies’ Virginia Engineering Excellence Awards, a black-tie event recognizing outstanding projects across the Commonwealth. Our friends at the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission was recognized for their Lewis Street Hub project, highlighting the impact of innovative transportation solutions.

AASHTO CORT Winter Legislative Meeting

While in Northern Virginia for the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Council on Rail Transportation Legislative Meeting, Emily Stock, Randy Selleck, and Taylor Holden took the opportunity to check out Amtrak’s new Airo trains. Their official review? Simply airo-sistible.

ASHE Potomac Section Dinner Meeting

Sarah Husain provided an update on DRPT’s work to the Potomac Section of the American Society of Highway Engineers, sharing insights on current initiatives and future priorities.

Rail Projects Tour

Director Zimmerman recently toured several major rail projects, including the Long Bridge project, Virginia Railway Express work at Alexandria and L’Enfant stations, and the Alexandria Four Track project led by the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority and CSX Transportation. These visits highlight the continued progress being made to expand and improve passenger rail service across the region.

WATA North Transfer Center Visit

Grant Sparks and Avery Daugherty visited the Williamsburg Area Transit Authority North Transfer Center project to check on progress. The project represents another step forward in improving transit infrastructure and accessibility for the community.

Wytheville Virginia Breeze Stop Relocation and Construction

Construction is officially underway on the relocated Virginia Breeze stop in Wytheville. This project will enhance connectivity and improve the passenger experience for those traveling through the region.

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