As the only railroad bridge connecting Virginia to Washington, DC, Long Bridge is a critical link that when expanded, will double the long-term capacity for passenger and freight rail traffic and improve the reliability of service. In addition, the expansion of Long Bridge will contribute to a more cohesive railroad network by connecting Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express, and CSX Transportation between the northeast and southeast, providing riders with improved mobility and connectivity across the East Coast.
On behalf of the District Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad Administration, VHB completed the NEPA Environmental Impact Statement and Conceptual Engineering and is now leading the subsequent Preliminary Engineering phase alongside the project sponsor, Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA). The 1.8-mile project corridor connecting Virginia to Washington, DC, encompasses five new rail bridges, including a new two-track railroad bridge next to the existing two-track Long Bridge, and two bicycle and pedestrian bridges.
The $1.9 billion Long Bridge project will not only provide rail improvements along the corridor but will also focus on enhancements to the pedestrian and bicycle network by providing convenient, safe options for connectivity and accessibility. VHB’s efforts leading the grant funding application for the U.S. Department of Transportation 2022 RAISE Program were instrumental in securing a $20 million grant for the Long Bridge project.
Once completed, the Long Bridge project will enhance equitable mobility options and overall connectivity along the corridor.
