"The first time Virginia has ever funded inter-city rail transporation"

ok ... just last week I was imagining a thriving rail station here in Charlottesville, and yesterday I discover that the reality may be closer than I realized. A new line will be added next fall between Lynchburg and Washington D.C. - or rather the existing AMTRAK line between Washinginton and New York will be extended down into Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (VDRPT) plans to shell out $39.5 million, the full cost of both infrastructure improvements and three years of operating costs.

Says Meredith Richards, organizer of Piedmont Rail Coalition:

“It’s unprecedented. This will be the first time Virginia has ever funded inter-city rail transporation.”

I'll be sure to reserve a ticket this coming fall.