McClellan Announces Over $5 Million to Virginia Passenger Rail Authority to Modernize Virginia Rail and Improve Accessibility

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) will receive $5,836,000 through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. The funding will support upgrades to the Staples Mill Station and improve accessibility, safety, and passenger experience.

The federal funding will help VPRA finalize improvements to two platforms, one platform canopy, and accessible route improvements at the Staples Mill Station to ensure compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and enhance the safety and passenger experience. VPRA will also use the grant award to support future increased Intercity Passenger Rail (IPR) service, with plans for an additional 10 trains per day to run through the station on top of the current 20 Amtrak trains per day.

“Staples Mill is the Richmond region’s busiest Amtrak Station and a critical rail hub for Virginia’s Fourth and beyond,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Thanks to this award, the VPRA can now ensure Virginians have reliable, accessible, and enjoyable transportation. I commend the Biden-Harris Administration and the Department of Transportation for their ongoing investments in our nation’s rail system.”

CRISI supports projects aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail. CRISI has made more than $2.4 billion available in CRISI grants for the 2023 and 2024 fiscal years. 

You can read more about the grant awards provided by CRISI here.