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NCPC clears Long Bridge Corridor north-section plans, endorses railroad capacity upgrades
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Summary
The commission approved preliminary and final site development plans for the Long Bridge Corridor north section, supporting VPRA and NPS proposals to add two tracks, replace bridges, reuse historic stone, and provide temporary pedestrian access during construction.
The National Capital Planning Commission voted April 3 to approve preliminary and final site-development plans for the Long Bridge Corridor north section, a VPRA-led project to add two new tracks and improve rail capacity into Washington.
Michael Weil presented the submission on behalf of the National Park Service and the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, describing five improved bridge locations, widened corridor sections, new retaining walls (ranging 5 to 25 feet), granite cladding that reuses stone from existing piers, and a landscape plan that emphasizes native species and pollinators. The presentation noted the project’s purpose is to provide additional capacity and reliability for passenger rail and that the work builds on a prior 2020 EIS and 2024 NEPA reevaluation.
Charlene Leavoy, VPRA project manager, said the Long Bridge project is a ‘‘cornerstone of Virginia’s transforming rail in Virginia initiative,’’ a roughly $2.3 billion program that will add capacity, enable more frequent Amtrak Virginia service and expanded Virginia Railway Express service, and is expected to generate regional economic benefits.
Commissioners asked about maintaining pedestrian connections during construction; project staff said VPRA will provide a temporary pedestrian bridge so the existing portal connection is not lost during works. Commissioners also inquired about project timing and the staged progressive design–build approach; staff said early-works packages will be used to preserve the schedule and that the south package will return to NCPC later.
Commissioner Stidham moved to approve the plans; Vice Chair Hewlett seconded. The motion carried by roll call.
Next steps: NCPC’s staff prepared a record of decision to conclude NCPC’s NEPA responsibilities for the affected federal property along the corridor; VPRA and the National Park Service will continue coordination with adjacent property owners and return with the south package for review.
