On Thursday, Gov. Ralph Northam announced a $3.7 billion investment to transform the Commonwealth’s passenger, commuter, and freight rail.

Included in the 10-year plan is the building of a new bridge across the Potomac to support Long Bridge, doubling the number of Virginia Amtrak trains, and providing “nearly hourly” service between Richmond and Washington, D.C.

The Virginia conservation community issued the following statements:

“With yesterday’s announcement, Gov. Northam’s administration is not only setting the tone for forward-thinking transportation policy in Virginia, but also charting a course towards a cost-effective, convenient, and sustainable mobility future for the entire nation. As the Commonwealth’s leading source of carbon pollution, investments in cleaner, balanced, and more equitable transportation systems are crucial in protecting our communities from climate change and preserving our natural, historic, and scenic resources. These investments provide Virginians much-needed transportation options and save lives by increasing air quality while also reducing traffic fatalities.”

-Wyatt Gordon, Policy and Campaigns Manager

“These initiatives are putting Virginia in the forefront of regional and state transit and rail investments.  The Virginia initiatives did not appear out of thin air but reflect not only the commitment of elected leaders and dedicated government staff, but the sustained advocacy of Virginia non-profits including VCN, Virginians for High Speed Rail, Southern Environmental Law Center, and the Coalition for Smarter Growth over the past two decades.

-Stewart Schwartz, Executive Director

“To achieve the deep cuts in emissions necessary to avoid the worst effects of climate change, we need more people to get out of single occupancy vehicles. Virginia’s historic investment is a big win for climate by making passenger rail a more convenient option for millions of commuters and travelers throughout the commonwealth.”

-Joe Rupp, Climate Advocate

“Transportation is Virginia’s leading source of climate pollution. We’ve got to provide cleaner transportation options, and this agreement is a bold effort that could transform rail in Virginia, cutting pollution while also reducing congestion.”

-Trip Pollard, Senior Attorney

“This deal is truly historic. Not only are we expanding passenger rail service but we’re righting the mistake from the 1990s when Virginia sold their ownership stake in the RF&P in the first place. Virginia is no longer a renter on these rail corridors hoping that our investments achieve what we want. Thanks to Governor Northam, Secretary Valentine, Director Mitchell and their staffs, we’re the owner of our own transportation destiny.”

-Danny Plaugher, Executive Director

“We completely agree with the governor’s prioritization of the I-95 corridor. In addition, the increase in capacity by the expansion of Long Bridge will finally allow Amtrak’s long-awaited second Northeast Regional daily service between Roanoke and Washington, D.C., with stops in our region in Charlottesville and Culpeper. This will make it much easier for people to get around our beautiful state without a car, providing environmental benefits including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. It will boost tourism for communities from the Blue Ridge to the Bay. This is great news for the 21st century.”

-Chris Miller, President

Keep checking back for additional statements.