This news feed, maintained by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, provides news on rail, transit, TDM topics as well as DRPT programs and initiatives. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:27:37 -0500 Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:26:08 -0500 FeedForAll v2.0 (2.0.2.9) http://www.feedforall.com http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/assets/images/drptrssicon.jpg http://www.drpt.virginia.gov DRPT Logo 144 40 Unable to make one of the SuperNoVa Transit/TDM Vision Plan public meetings? We still want to hear from you! http://www.supernovatransitvision.com/involved.html 183B88A1-EC81-4840-9240-BF1C2AB88A84 Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:26:08 -0500 Can you hear the sound of a whistle? That’s the FREE Amtrak Exhibit Train coming to the Staples Mill Rd Amtrak station on Saturday and Sunday, March 3-4, from 10am to 4pm. This special train is a unique traveling display showcasing memorabilia from the national passenger railroad’s 40 year history, like vintage advertising, past menus, dinnerware, and period uniforms. The Exhibit Train event will also include a train-themed kids’ activity area, Chuggington Depot, based on the popular television series on Disney Junior. http://www.amtrak40th.com AB3E0712-1F8D-4E68-8B69-B99E3A626340 Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:25:46 -0500 Hosted by the Virginia Transit Association, the webinar will explore the design, implementation and use of social media by public transit agencies to improve customer service and relations, while bolstering public image and a positive transit community. https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/588353634 9F69D397-1599-4EA4-A9B5-3C43531EF9CC Mon, 27 Feb 2012 11:25:19 -0500 DRPT and the North Carolina Department of Transportation have released the report, which identifies recommendations to the Federal Railroad Administration for the preferred rail alternative for each of the 26 sections of the SEHSR corridor between Richmond, VA, and Raleigh, NC. Comments will be collected until March 9. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=570 90D1AF62-A5CC-425B-A3A6-2BB151B7A8C2 Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:15:46 -0500 U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced the availability of $826.5 million in Fiscal Year 2012 discretionary funds to modernize and repair transit vehicles and facilities around the country and promote the widespread use of sustainable clean fuel. http://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDOTFTA-2ec107 8DC6D664-37AD-4331-B390-0F1BA7521A27 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:15:29 -0500 Greater Richmond Transit Company will pay special tribute to Rosa Parks on Wednesday, February 22. The first passenger seat on every bus will be reserved with a commemorative sign displayed. http://www.ridegrtc.com/documents/2012%20Rosa%20Parks%20Customer%20Notice.pdf 28FA8C2B-A3E7-4564-B074-03757974DC35 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:15:00 -0500 Being held May 17-18 in Tysons Corner, the event will feature educational sessions, a Dulles Rail tour and more! http://www.cvent.com/events/vta-2012-annual-conference-may-17-18-2012/event-summary-8e0215baf6d54954a3290934f6ac37f4.aspx 048EF407-2F84-4E8E-92D5-9C44CD2460FF Fri, 3 Feb 2012 09:37:58 -0500 Chesapeake City Manager William Harrell will step into the role on April 2. http://www.gohrt.com/chesapeake-city-manager-is-named-head-of-hrt/ 30390CE6-D069-4223-A03B-9123590E1518 Thu, 2 Feb 2012 09:36:59 -0500 Check out these fun bus ads and learn why traveling is a group is better than traveling alone! http://thesource.metro.net/2012/01/30/great-ads-for-transit/ 66B6029D-4848-49FA-95B3-E4D54C661066 Wed, 1 Feb 2012 09:36:15 -0500 Governor McDonnell announced that the Amtrak Virginia extension to Norfolk will begin in 2012! This is 10 months earlier than originally projected. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=569 FFAAE48A-B1E8-46A7-A58D-ACA63F20E93F Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:54:28 -0500 A plan is being developed by the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration and DRPT to study potential multimodal improvements that will address existing and future transportation needs in the Interstate 66 corridor. Public meetings have been scheduled to gather additional input to further define the transportation problems in the corridor and refine the purpose and need for the study. http://www.helpfix66.com 5E09EC7A-1E81-466F-A9B7-60C8AE1CA633 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:54:04 -0500 Total VRE ridership increased 10.3 percent in 2011 as compared to 2010. Want to see what all the fuss is about? Check out this “how to ride” video and hop on board! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2o8hg2JpOQ&list=UUsSQegHFE-GQuSwY_YBYRSw&index=6&feature=plcp B67DABEB-0E08-4509-A454-5AFF7F8B8999 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:53:42 -0500 Being held in February, these meetings are scheduled across the study corridor. The plan will evaluate current and future needs and develop a vision for transit and TDM in the Super NoVa area. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=568 8490C7C6-4870-44D6-B5BD-864A6D7B75A2 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:31:40 -0500 The statewide multimodal plan is undergoing an update. Materials and information for public comment are available online. http://www.vtrans.org/vtrans_2035_update.asp E5FE048E-1A40-430C-8DF2-7497AAAFDEEE Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:31:26 -0500 A new website is now available to answer! The 495 Express Lanes, opening on the Virginia side of the Capital Beltway, will provide faster, more direct options for high-occupancy vehicles and toll-paying customers. http://www.495expresslanes.com/ E4DEE74E-A181-432D-BD1E-BE182FD15206 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:31:08 -0500 Sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association, the seminar will be held January 28-31 in Orlando, Florida. Designed for chief executives of public transportation systems, the seminar will provide participants with a unique professional development forum. http://www.apta.com/mc/transitceos/Pages/default.aspx 7D9074ED-44FC-48D9-9254-D84BBE0BD977 Fri, 6 Jan 2012 13:33:00 -0500 Learn about riding Amtrak Virginia and take a look at other fan videos on the new Amtrak Virginia YouTube page. Be sure to bookmark the page and watch for new videos! http://www.youtube.com/amtrakvirginia 2902B320-9E15-49D7-8851-60B429FF756A Wed, 4 Jan 2012 13:32:42 -0500 The Compact will meet on Monday, January 9 from 10 AM until 2 PM at the Virginia State Capitol Building, Senate Room Three. The meeting is open to the public and an agenda is now available online. http://drpt.virginia.gov/projects/VA-NC_Compact.aspx 76772C10-399A-4569-8AD4-D6E07A1A7845 Tue, 3 Jan 2012 13:32:21 -0500 Being held January 19, federal, state, and industry representatives will discuss management considerations and technology requirements to address when preparing for business continuity exercises, including Telework Week 2012. http://teleworkexchange.com/events/webcast/events-detail/1273 EA0B44DD-7665-4397-B75E-256F54273C63 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 09:54:16 -0500 Looking for a fun new year’s resolution? Travel with Amtrak Virginia to see everything the state has to offer. Follow Amtrak Virginia on Facebook for trip ideas and deals! http://www.facebook.com/AmtrakVirginia 168AF892-6A2C-431F-B297-8ACC2504FF90 Tue, 27 Dec 2011 09:54:03 -0500 Exceeding expectations, The Tide, Virginia’s first light rail service has served over 500,000 riders just four months after opening! Haven’t taken a ride on the Tide? Check out the website for maps and a schedule. http://www.gohrt.com/services/the-tide/ 06F391BF-84EA-4801-9F30-CF82249110ED Mon, 26 Dec 2011 09:53:40 -0500 The Governance Work Group created by Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley and District of Columbia Mayor Vincent C. Gray to advance Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority governance reform, has released its final recommendations for improving regional coordination among the WMATA Board of Directors and establishing greater focus on long-term, high-level policy. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=566 A4AE83EA-643D-4959-AC38-E0A6C4FE9ECB Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:12:54 -0500 Governor McDonnell outlined his proposals for transportation funding at the Governor’s Transportation Conference in Norfolk. The governor’s new proposals follow the passage of his 2011 transportation agenda, which put the most new funding into roads and rail in the state in 25 years. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=1038 CBD64357-6A7F-446D-8DF0-F785150118DB Wed, 14 Dec 2011 14:12:30 -0500 Also, be sure to use Amtrak Virginia for all your holiday travel needs! http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCIQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amtrak.com%2Fservlet%2FContentServer%3Fc%3DPage%26pagename%3Dam%2FLayout%26p%3D1237405732514%26cid%3D1246042886115%26WT.mc_t%3DHolidayEcard_A_WSP%26WT.mc_n%3DHolidaycardpage%26WT.mc_r%3D365%26tiid%3D15563%26audienceId%3D0%26rtTracking%3D1&ei=YTbqToTYE6no0QHkhfGvCQ&usg=AFQjCNHwmsMLEHwMXODpIyXhKghZdgOikQ&sig2=oFh8auQn7TNW-wAr9u3mpQ A053039E-9DDA-4011-996E-E380E96E9B7A Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:12:04 -0500 The application period for the 2013 fiscal year will be open though February 1, 2012. Applications can be filled out online at https://olga.drpt.virginia.gov http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=560 3B414897-99EB-4D29-B545-BF2CF64519F3 Thu, 1 Dec 2011 11:45:14 -0500 The National Center on Senior Transportation is holding an open, online dialogue and want to hear and discuss your experiences, challenges and recommendations related to planning for the transportation needs of older adults. This includes the data and information you collect and the processes you use to analyze these data and make decisions about senior transportation http://ncsttalks1.ideascale.com/ 939CE28F-C84E-4A2D-963D-A473EF693062 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:44:54 -0500 Mark your calendars for Telework Week, being held March 5-9, 2012. Sponsored by Telework Exchange, the event encourages agencies, organizations, and individuals to pledge to telework at least once during the week. http://teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/pledge/1259?utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TE%20-%20Telework%20Week%202012&org=2022&lvl=100&ite=1255&lea=2236191&ctr=0&par=1e 7848FDB8-684C-44E4-9A91-AD40CE243E71 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:31:14 -0500 Follow the progress of the Metro extension to Dulles online, by viewing the November newsletter. With news and photos, you won’t want to miss it! http://www.dullesmetro.com/documents/11NOV_DullesMetroNewsletter.pdf F90A90AE-6926-47CF-AFA5-5E4787C6C94C Wed, 16 Nov 2011 11:30:54 -0500 Bus Overhauls 101:Tips, Tricks and Tough Issues, will be held on Wednesday, December 14 from 2:00-3:00 PM. Hear from experts on the most effective ways to overhaul your bus fleet. Register today! https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/369587682 80F53A3B-D052-4577-A4DD-53FC9C871B6C Tue, 15 Nov 2011 11:30:18 -0500 Follow us for the latest Amtrak Virginia news, offers and helpful tips! http://twitter.com/#!/amtrakva 8C4EC2AD-24F3-4B3C-BC4C-4E3F5A2EDA79 Fri, 4 Nov 2011 14:18:16 -0400 Being held December 7-9 in Norfolk, Join the Governor, Robert F. McDonnell, the Secretary of Transportation, Sean T. Connaughton, the Governor's transportation team, legislative leaders, and key modal stakeholders to see what transportation choices and opportunities the Commonwealth has to offer. http://s351015200.onlinehome.us/VTC/index.html AF2B2954-54C9-4BF0-B3EB-D9F7E543D518 Fri, 4 Nov 2011 14:17:51 -0400 Responding to strong passenger interest, Amtrak is launching a major expansion of its free AmtrakConnect Wi-Fi service to 12 East Coast routes. As a result, trains that carry nearly 60 percent of all Amtrak passengers now have Wi-Fi connections http://www.amtrakvirginia.com 7B38BB3B-DF8B-4AC4-A762-767CAA57DD62 Wed, 2 Nov 2011 14:17:23 -0400 In case you weren’t able to make it to the Town Hall Meeting to hear Virginia Secretary of Transportation Sean Connaughton address the attendees on the benefits of teleworking, you can now listen to his speech, along with other aspects of the meeting, online. https://www.teleworkexchange.com/events/town-hall-meeting/events-detail/1036?utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TE%20-%20Fall%202011%20THM%20Attendee%20Marketing&org=2022&lvl=100&ite=1241&lea=1885203&ctr=0&par=1#schedule 3E93F407-9729-4506-862C-3A9BEDE83B20 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 14:36:10 -0400 Sponsored by ITS Virginia, the event will be held on Thursday, November 17, in Glen Allen. You won’t want to miss this timely and important event! http://www.itsva.org/event_details.aspx?id=44 E020949C-691D-463C-883C-EEFF94735940 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:35:53 -0400 Traveling for Thanksgiving and the holiday season? Be sure to book your tickets with Amtrak Virginia 14 days in advance to receive a 25% discount! http://www.amtrakvirginia.com 37A024B7-189A-4B42-B4CC-F9C9BA9ED6B3 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 14:35:19 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association is sponsoring a photography contest for photos that depict public transportation’s significance, value and benefits. Photos must be submitted by November 4, and the winning entries will appear in their 2012 calendar. http://www.apta.com/members/memberprogramsandservices/awards/Pages/photoinvitational.aspx 042DFE08-DAD5-4420-B5AE-386BC725C76B Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:37:50 -0400 Progressive Railroading’s 2011 Rail-at-a-Glance surveys asked dozens of transit agencies, "What are the hot issues your agency is dealing with right now?" This on-line only article has responses from agencies across the country, including Virginia http://www.progressiverailroading.com/passenger_rail/article/Sounding-Off-Transit-agencies-address-hot-issues-in-2011-Passenger-Rail-AtaGlance-surveys--28387 6346C76E-A4B8-4BC9-B58F-07BE0F504E07 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:37:19 -0400 In all, $928.5 million was awarded for fiscal year 2011 transit improvements. Projects include new buses, equipment, garages and bike programs for various municipalities and transportation authorities. http://www.fta.dot.gov/12286_13979.html 03B7344B-1755-4CF8-8F07-C462823B4D3A Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:37:00 -0400 October 31, 2011, marks the last day that Virginia businesses can pre-apply to take advantage of the Virginia’s new telework tax credit legislation that provides for a tax credit of up to $50,000 per business for tax year 2012. http://www.teleworkva.org/go/for-managers/telework-tax-credit/ F120411F-AB32-45C6-94AB-563E4877D1BB Fri, 14 Oct 2011 10:08:00 -0400 Sponsored by the FTA on October 25, this webinar introduces participants to the range of value capture strategies that can be employed near transit, and provides real-world examples of innovative value capture strategies currently underway in the US. https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/118963017 9F1FDB04-5FF6-443C-A61A-2C413A721C2C Thu, 13 Oct 2011 10:06:35 -0400 The national, nonprofit rail safety education organization is inviting people to submit ideas for an ending to Bad Move, its new public service announcement through an online contest. The contest is open through October 31 and the winner will receive two round trip Amtrak tickets. http://oli.org/news/view/operation-lifesaver-launches-bad-move-pedestrian-safety-psa-with-online-con 54FC4255-5B72-4B1C-99F2-3EEEC9272421 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:06:03 -0400 DRPT will study current and projected commuter patterns in Northern Virginia to plan transit and transportation demand management enhancements needed to keep Northern Virginia moving. The study will cover commuting within Northern Virginia, as well as west from the Shenandoah Valley, south through Culpeper and Caroline counties, and east from the Northern Neck. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=558 CA0C7A8D-6E17-4817-9BFA-A25886156C7B Fri, 7 Oct 2011 12:36:31 -0400 Pledge to share a ride from October 17-23 and be entered to win prizes for you, your car and your wallet! Sharing a ride includes carpooling or any alternative to driving alone, like transit, biking, walking or teleworking. http://www.rideshareinfo.org/ 9F4DB8E2-7973-4FB9-902C-0719AF47BA58 Wed, 5 Oct 2011 12:36:14 -0400 No worries! The presentation and recording from the event are now available online. Find out how your company can save up to $50,000. http://www.teleworkva.org/go/for-managers/telework-tax-credit/ E187E05A-3E70-420B-BEB1-AB2256139599 Tue, 4 Oct 2011 12:35:45 -0400 Starting October 11, these meetings will give the public an opportunity to comment on plans to adjust bus service in order to provide customers with more reliable, efficient and cost-effective service and to provide additional capacity where it is needed most. http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=5043 37EC26C8-8EEB-4CFE-B41C-D7757578A128 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:40:33 -0400 For the first time in its history, Amtrak has announced it has reached ridership of 30 million during FY 2011. Find out what all the hype is about and make your Amtrak Virginia reservations today http://www.amtrakvirginia.com E7FE713B-FECD-4A20-83AF-FCC860916955 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:40:14 -0400 Kicking off on October 3 in Lynchburg, the meetings will be held across the state so that the public may discuss projects and programs in the current Six-year Improvement Program (SYIP) and provide comments for the development of the Fiscal Years 2013-2018 SYIP, including multimodal initiatives for highways, rail and transit. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=553 86E3CC28-C084-493F-A168-95F51B696904 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 13:39:56 -0400 If you accepted the challenge and tried transit this week, be sure to enter your pledge today. You will be entered to win a year-long transit pass and two round-trip Amtrak Virginia tickets! http://www.trytransitweek.com F0173A79-3DEF-42C2-878B-9D7C0F7D97DC Fri, 23 Sep 2011 10:07:41 -0400 For the first time in its 25-year history, the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission carried more than 15,000 passengers on a single day. Last month, the transit agency gained four new buses and for the first time in years was able to add service to the OmniRide commuter bus system. http://www.prtctransit.org/ 2AE56598-0F58-492E-8375-96789B5B24F9 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:07:21 -0400 VDOT and DRPT will hold three Design Public Hearings for the proposed high occupancy vehicle and high occupancy toll lanes along I-95. The hearings will also provide the opportunity to review the findings of the I-95 Environmental Analysis and the I-95 Transit and Transportation Demand Management plan. Hearings will be held along the corridor, beginning September 26. http://potomaclocal.com/2011/09/13/i-95-hot-lanes-public-meetings-planned/ 963B89AD-8013-4B3D-A47C-F0E30C27D520 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 10:07:01 -0400 Take the pledge today to try transit the week of September 19-23. You will not only be saving time and money, but you will also be entered to win a one-year transit pass and two round trip tickets on Amtrak Virginia! http://www.trytransitweek.com 07C70A53-4EC0-4816-9816-BB411E47797F Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:37:39 -0400 In response to Virginia’s new telework tax credit, DRPT is hosting a free webinar on September 30 from 9:30-10:45 a.m. Register today and learn how your business can save up to $50,000 in tax credits by setting up a formal telework program https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/678369122 28A299F7-A99A-4AAD-9FDB-670544520D65 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 15:37:19 -0400 This article, published by Passenger Transport magazine, examines some national and local security changes to public transit systems, since the September 11 attacks. Included is a snapshot of the steps WMATA has taken to ensure the safety of its passengers. http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/aptapt/issues/2011-08-26/1.html B4845AC0-26E0-48EC-9198-453FC305B3F4 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:37:05 -0400 Sponsored by the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance, the September 28 event will take place in McLean and feature Secretary Connaughton and other leading Virginia transportation experts. The seminar will include what’s happening with regards to WMATA structural reforms and maintenance, I-66 and I-95 improvements, VRE upgrades, Fairfax County Parkway and other key secondary road improvements. http://nvtav2.timberlakepublishing.com/content.asp?admin=Y&contentid=2168 4E6D86E8-CC7E-4063-9CB4-ADF6DE652B54 Fri, 9 Sep 2011 15:04:44 -0400 Petersburg Area Transit has a new bus route to Hopewell, which brings the area bus service for the first time since the 1970s. The Hopewell Circulator includes 34 stops throughout the city and riders can transfer to buses which will take them throughout the region http://www.petersburg-va.org/ C86B7814-C050-4EEC-96D8-A46A8B40ACB3 Thu, 8 Sep 2011 15:04:13 -0400 WMATA is in the process of updating its Metrorail map and is looking for public input. Take a look of a draft of the new map and answer a few short questions to help design a new and improved look! http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/mapsurvey/ 268B05B9-EFFE-49BA-9E1C-E0D255FB2789 Wed, 7 Sep 2011 15:03:53 -0400 The majority of east coast trains have restored service. Additionally, all trains are on schedule to be returned to full operation by Saturday, September 3. Passengers who have paid for travel on canceled trains can contact Amtrak to receive refunds without fee or penalty or can rebook for future travel. http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?c=Page&pagename=am%2FLayout&cid=1237608335997 BCB61CEC-E70A-4B25-824E-DE3766350F91 Fri, 2 Sep 2011 13:34:42 -0400 Registration is now open for the conference being held October 16-19 in Washington, D.C. With more than 75 workshops, networking events and toolbox sessions focused on building livable communities with transit, you won’t want to miss this annual event! http://www.railvolution.org/ 057B74AA-FB36-429F-90F0-E7237018A722 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:33:58 -0400 The annual Car Free Day is now accepting pledges for this year’s challenge. Be part of a worldwide movement to celebrate sustainable transportation. http://www.carfreemetrodc.com/ 763F8380-EF38-455A-A470-448BFC7CC714 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 13:33:39 -0400 In preparation of the storm, Amtrak is canceling some routes for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Additional cancellations may be necessary in the coming days as the major storm moves north. Currently, service on the Northeast Corridor is not affected. http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?c=Page&pagename=am%2FLayout&cid=1237608335997 FE0E3FAE-F4DE-459A-9EC7-834591C6DFF8 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:13:15 -0400 A new study shows that car sharing reduces overall vehicle ownership, takes older cars off the road and helps individuals move away from car-dependent lifestyles. http://www.wired.com/autopia/2011/08/share-a-car-save-the-planet 099DD960-1576-4562-979B-599D700BC3A4 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:12:57 -0400 With free preview rides that have been extended through this weekend, Virginia’s first light rail service has seen tremendous ridership since it opened its doors last weekend. http://www.gohrt.com/more-than-75000-rode-the-tide-on-debut-weekend/ 76006D2E-A982-4A4A-8721-D8BFE5661811 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:12:37 -0400 In celebration of Virginia’s first light rail service, check out Hampton Roads Transit’s The Tide, for FREE this weekend. Introductory rides will be available from the 19-21, many additional grand opening celebrations will take place throughout the weekend http://www.ridethetide.com/ 91A1770C-C523-4756-8229-1997961CBF9B Thu, 18 Aug 2011 14:03:52 -0400 Register today for Telework Exchange’s Town Hall Meeting, Tuesday October 18 in Washington, D.C. and hear Virginia Secretary of Transportation, Sean Connaughton discuss how telework supports the Commonwealth’s goals and initiatives. https://teleworkexchange.com/events/town-hall-meeting/events-detail/1036?utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TE%20-%20Fall%202011%20THM%20Attendee%20Marketing&org=2022&lvl=100&ite=1166&lea=1885203&ctr=0&par=1 CF3A248E-7644-48F5-B3A7-6B35A7D4FEBC Wed, 17 Aug 2011 14:03:16 -0400 Reserving your tickets 14 days in advance will save you 25% off Northeast Regional for the upcoming holiday weekend. http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=Yes&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248544340128&WT.mc_t=NERLaborDaySouth_HP1_B_WSP&WT.mc_n=NERLaborDay&WT.mc_r=365&tiid=32184&audienceId=0&rtTracking=1 FF3900EB-B56C-4713-8AB6-B7D02127F4C6 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 14:02:53 -0400 Sponsored by DRPT, the fourth annual Try Transit Week is a week-long, educational event designed to encourage Virginians to stop driving alone and try a form of transit such as bus, rail, carpools, vanpools or telework. Participants are automatically entered for a chance to win two round-trip tickets on Amtrak Virginia and a one-year transit pass to the Virginia transit operator of their choice. http://www.trytransitweek.com 653596E2-2823-4175-962F-497E773A34AE Fri, 12 Aug 2011 13:07:00 -0400 Radford Transit began service on August 10, which brings the city its first public bus service in 30 years. The service currently runs throughout Radford with plans to expand to Blacksburg in the future. http://www.radfordtransit.com/ 8D5546EC-3E3F-4163-8386-E952166612C8 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 13:06:39 -0400 Be sure to mark your calendars for next year’s conference being held May 17-18 at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner. Registration begins in January; watch this RSS for more details when they become available. http://www.vatransit.com/ 3DC731DE-D119-42FD-B7F9-E3806CB5BECA Tue, 9 Aug 2011 13:06:20 -0400 Sponsored by the National Transit Institute, the goal of this course is to help transit professionals learn the necessary skills for reporting data to the NTD internet reporting web site. Taking place in GRTC’s headquarters, the course will also feature the opportunity for participants to interact with representatives from NTD's support services contractor http://www.ntionline.com/courses/courseinfo.php?id=7 DF64EF41-7A1B-4729-8B66-3B2BCB01BF2B Fri, 5 Aug 2011 10:04:05 -0400 Being held on August 17, this webinar will focus on agencies’ successful strategies and best practices in telework implementation. Panelists will discuss how to build management support for a robust telework program, key training requirements to ensure effective communication and technologies that enable collaboration for a widespread workforce. http://teleworkexchange.com/events/webcast/events-detail/950 B396F254-872A-4607-912B-245BF209C433 Thu, 4 Aug 2011 10:03:31 -0400 The president of the Women Transportation Series discusses the efforts they are taking to recruit more women into the industry. She also speaks about USDOT’s "Transportation You", a national education initiative aimed at girls and young women. http://www.progressiverailroading.com/audio/details/WTS-President-and-CEO-Marcia-Ferranto-discusses-the-recruitment-of-women-in-transportation-careers--27515 3DD82D95-A311-4BAD-A528-2315557AC73D Wed, 3 Aug 2011 10:03:06 -0400 Follow 36 participants in major cities across the country as they attempt to go car-free for one month. Challenge yourself this month as well! http://www.zipcar.com/lowcardiet/?tab=home AD678A75-6975-4F86-BCF5-039FBE9B1D7A Fri, 29 Jul 2011 13:17:55 -0400 Being held on October 2-5 in New Orleans, this is the largest public transportation showcase in North America! Hear from experts, network with over 17,000 professionals and connect with exhibitors by registering for this FREE event. http://www.aptaexpo.com/apta2011/public/enter.aspx 390E1212-D067-49BF-B395-0868A4092F1B Wed, 27 Jul 2011 13:17:37 -0400 A number of organizations have teamed up to put together this informational series to support rural communities in submitting strong applications for TIGER funding. The webinar will provide an overview of the grants, discuss innovative rural transportation projects and showcase successful rural projects from earlier TIGER grant cycles. Register today! https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/schedule/display.do?udc=ef34xmeoa3xp CF2C4B1A-22EE-4E72-949B-4E8B029DBA05 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 13:17:15 -0400 The draft report represents the initial phase of recommendations to help guide the WMATA Board and other regional efforts to improve the board member appointment process, better define member and Chair roles and responsibilities, improve transparency and accountability and focus board activity on high-level policy. Public comments on the report will be accepted until August 25, 2011. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=551 63F9170C-AC56-4B47-9F70-7E645B554D97 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 10:22:19 -0400 The annual event, sponsored by the Community Transportation Association of Virginia, will take place in Roanoke from August 9-11. Attend training sessions, hear from Virginia transit leaders and network with your peers. http://ctav.org/pages/page/id_64/n_ctav_expo_2011/ 064EF7C8-1BB7-4DD3-879C-728ADFA4B2E7 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 10:21:51 -0400 A recent survey has found that Zipcar membership means less driving, more public transportation use and more exercise. The car sharing program can be found in Arlington, Charlottesville, Fairfax, Newport News, Norfolk, Richmond, Williamsburg and Washington D.C. http://zipcar.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=231 3A995E9C-799A-4F7D-9574-040928E7439D Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:21:11 -0400 Sponsored by Reconnecting America, the July 19 event will focus on introducing participants to the benefits of land use and community development planning at the transit corridor scale, and offering on-the-ground examples of how to make corridor planning work. Space is limited so register today. https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/661220641 0CFB626E-1220-47B4-9BD6-3AAD9E2040B3 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 13:48:07 -0400 This projection will set a new all-time record when the current fiscal year ends Sept. 30. Travel with Amtrak Virginia this summer to experience the benefits of train travel! Be sure to book your reservations 14 days in advance to save up to 25% off the lowest available fare. http://www.amtrakvirginia.com 2331487F-9D4E-4D93-B338-5CAB3654AFEB Thu, 14 Jul 2011 13:47:38 -0400 Released by the American Public Transit Association, findings show that individuals who ride public transportation save, on average, $9,968 annually and $831 per month. Check out DRPT’s service locator tool to find public transportation options in your area! http://drpt.virginia.gov/locator/default.aspx EA372EC1-0162-4C09-8028-5D1DF535EEE5 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 13:47:06 -0400 Sponsored by Telework Exchange on July 19, this webinar will discuss what steps agencies are taking to meet the next requirements of the Telework Enhancement Act and strategies for implementing agency-wide telework programs. Panelists will also provide expert insight into recommended strategies and technologies to enable a secure and efficient mobile environment. Register today! http://www.teleworkexchange.com/events/webcast/events-detail/956?utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TE%20-%20Juniper%20Study%20Blast&org=2022&lvl=100&ite=1109&lea=1812704&ctr=0&par=1&utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TE%20-%20Juniper%20Study%20Blast&org=2022&lvl=100&ite=1109&lea=1812704&ctr=0&par=1 2EDD81BC-F984-4D5E-875F-19C6CEF50909 Fri, 8 Jul 2011 10:39:56 -0400 Being held July 19, ITS Virginia will host an open meeting on real-time transit information. Speakers will cover operations, applied research and a Regional Integrated Transportation Information System overview. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssdetails.aspx?id=42 6FD144E0-7253-4CC1-9C36-BD77C2B8C411 Wed, 6 Jul 2011 10:39:31 -0400 This free tool can tell you! By answering just a few questions, this website will calculate your yearly cost of traveling to work by car and lets you know how much you can save by taking public transportation. The answers may surprise you! http://www.publictransportation.org/tools/fuelsavings/Pages/default.aspx 79A19A75-3064-4763-8229-C8B3450FCB52 Tue, 5 Jul 2011 10:38:57 -0400 Being held August 9-10 in Roanoke, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to network with your peers, participate in timely seminars and hear from DRPT Chief of Transit, Bob Wilson. http://ctav.org/pages/page/id_64/n_ctav_expo_2011/ 2F059E7E-0A16-4E00-A1FA-7F67344A903B Fri, 1 Jul 2011 09:31:41 -0400 In today’s economy, every penny counts. This Progressive Railroading article looks at what some transit agencies have done or are considering doing to boost revenue and service during this challenging time http://www.progressiverailroading.com/passenger_rail/article/To-boost-revenue-transit-agency-execs-try-to-think-outside-the-farebox--26840 137F59E6-50E5-40CE-8B9A-7BA8E7DD6EBE Wed, 29 Jun 2011 09:31:11 -0400 The service, which will be operated by the Greater Roanoke Transit Company, will provide connecting public transportation service from Roanoke and the New River Valley to Lynchburg. http://www.smartwaybus.com/documents/WhatistheSmartWayConnector-website.doc B8BE70F0-9B24-4236-A922-105D2E87AA84 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 09:30:32 -0400 The grants will help urban, suburban and rural communities develop transit options to better connect people to where they live, work and play. They are aimed at assuring that transportation and housing decisions are made jointly and recognize the unique character of each community. http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2011/fta3011.html D0DEB494-887B-41F9-B883-BDE857856146 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 09:30:09 -0400 Phase I of the project, which runs from East Falls Church to Reston, is estimated to be completed by 2013. Check out the project’s June newsletter for specific details and project pictures. http://www.dullesmetro.com/documents/11JUN_DullesMetroNewsletter.pdf 4AFD572E-1585-4727-9146-93E1C9084EE1 Fri, 24 Jun 2011 10:58:54 -0400 Unable to make it to the Virginia Transit Association Annual Meeting? You can now check out all of the presentations, including a DRPT update by Director Thelma Drake. http://www.vatransit.com/links.htm#2011Conf B55A2301-F2CB-4B45-8AC6-662F2CAD363A Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:58:31 -0400 Vacations should be filled with adventure, joy, relaxation and fun – not traffic jams and long lines at the airport. Traveling with Amtrak Virginia will help you achieve those goals. By booking your tickets 14-days in advance, you can save 25%-50% off the lowest ticket price! http://www.facebook.com/AmtrakVirginia#!/AmtrakVirginia?sk=app_203861532983398 2C484480-19D3-482A-9146-9848B40CE14F Tue, 21 Jun 2011 10:58:15 -0400 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) adopted the Fiscal Years2012-2017 Six-Year Improvement Program, allocating to projects almost $3 billion in additional construction funding created by Governor Bob McDonnell’s transportation funding package. The $10.6 billion construction program will enable important rail, transit, transportation management, bicycle, pedestrian and highway projects to move forward http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=545 B7167299-7CC1-42C2-B993-15B0198B32AF Thu, 16 Jun 2011 10:32:58 -0400 DRPT director Thelma Drake talks with Progressive Railroading regarding the success of Amtrak Virginia’s intercity passenger rail program as well as future expansion plans. http://www.progressiverailroading.com/passenger_rail/audiovideo/Virginia-DRPTs-Drake-outlines-strategy-to-expand-intercity-passengerrail-service--26869 05891342-56D4-4120-95DE-18EC75930A46 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 10:32:29 -0400 The complex includes spacious bus maintenance bays, training and conference rooms, a state-of-the-art computer classroom, fuel islands, an automated fare box recovery system, bus wash and parking decks. It was designed to meet federal Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification requirements. http://www.gohrt.com/hrt-christens-new-57-million-south-side-bus-maintenance-facility/ FDEC00BE-0F1E-4F63-9650-1BB2A9098137 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 10:32:04 -0400 Taking place June 24 in Richmond, the meeting features an update from DRPT, a national update and a keynote address from Amtrak’s Chief Engineer. Tours of the Virginia Capitol will be offered in conjunction with the event. http://www.vhsr.com/annualmeeting 6C0AFF65-76D1-4A34-B16C-9B33F3564585 Thu, 9 Jun 2011 12:59:25 -0400 Compiled by Telework Exchange, the report gauges Federal telework progress against the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010 requirements. The report also includes overall top challenges and peer-to-peer recommendations. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/our-research/research-detail/976 F9FF01B7-5F13-49E3-A1BB-1F5F06DD1509 Wed, 8 Jun 2011 12:58:59 -0400 In response to a recently released survey by HNTB Corp, Chair of Public Transit Services, Liz Rao, discusses the results with Progressive Railroading. She also talks about the importance of making smart investments in public transit and developing an integrated transportation network, with examples of successful transit agencies. http://www.progressiverailroading.com/passenger_rail/audiovideo/HNTBs-Rao-on-the-importance-of-smart-transit-investments--26802 6D5F16C0-33A2-4188-8C32-29297467CF9C Tue, 7 Jun 2011 12:58:19 -0400 The meetings will allow citizens to give input on ways to improve Interstate 66 outside of the Beltway. The first meeting is scheduled for June 8 in Manassas, while the second meeting will be held June 9 in Fairfax. Public comments will be accepted until July 15. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=543 1F3C8A8A-0E7A-4408-8FF9-6F9A6402ED12 Fri, 3 Jun 2011 09:28:11 -0400 Items for discussion at the June 7 meeting will include passenger rail updates, federal and state program initiatives, definition of the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor and the partnership of Southeast Corridor states. The compact works to advance high-speed rail initiatives in Virginia and North Carolina. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=542 E3ADC15D-E7E1-4408-BBE5-1DF52094AA51 Fri, 3 Jun 2011 09:27:46 -0400 Being held June 9-10, DRPT Director Thelma Drake will provide an agency update and will introduce new Chief of Public Transportation Bob Wilson. You won’t want to miss it! http://www.cvent.com/events/vta-2011-annual-conference-june-9-10-2011/event-summary-fd62f80e7f2d4ae5b4f26d7adbe707df.aspx 92C0A8F8-AAA6-4656-B7C8-161B7537B793 Fri, 3 Jun 2011 09:27:13 -0400 Scheduled for June 9-10 in Portsmouth, the event will bring industry leaders together to discuss important, timely issues. There will also be an opportunity to take a tour of Hampton Roads Transit’s light rail vehicles and facility. http://www.vatransit.com/Conf11/agenda.htm 910D3677-728A-4E5C-B1AD-F199CFD737CA Thu, 26 May 2011 15:23:25 -0400 The group features daily Amtrak Virginia discussions as well as the latest news, events, photos and vacation packages. Be sure to keep an eye out for exclusive contests! http://www.facebook.com/amtrakvirginia ACFE49F1-B58D-4F11-A180-03DD21C33ED0 Wed, 25 May 2011 15:22:53 -0400 If you weren’t able to make the meeting, you can now download presentations, podcasts, and videos from the event. The conference addressed management and technology needs for building, implementing, and measuring telework programs. Attendees heard directly from government leaders on best practices and lessons learned https://www.teleworkexchange.com/events/town-hall-meeting/events-detail/60 6103CDBD-E6BB-4D58-AEE0-F99437622A5F Mon, 23 May 2011 15:22:06 -0400 Did you know that 40 percent of urban trips in the United States are less than two miles, yet 90 percent of those short trips are taken by car? Organizers of the Challenge are asking participants to pursue other options when taking these short trips. Challengers will join one of three teams, sponsored by non-profit organizations. The winning team’s organization will win $100,000 for bicycle advocacy and climate protection! The goal is to replace 100,000 car trips, register today! http://2milechallenge.com/ 61AA9ED7-FB8C-4F7A-B1E7-1F6FF82D249F Fri, 20 May 2011 13:17:15 -0400 Most of the $160 million investment will be used to expand and improve the century-old Virginia Avenue Tunnel in Washington, D.C., and provide double-stack train clearances in Maryland, West Virginia and D.C. The National Gateway initiative calls for establishing a double-stack corridor between Mid-Atlantic ports and Midwestern markets by upgrading three rail corridors running through six states and the District of Columbia. The project is designed to shorten transit times and expand shippers’ access to rail services, as well as reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and fuel usage http://www.nationalgateway.org//news-resources/press-releases/2011/csx-commits-additional-160-million-national-gateway 58204589-72D0-4C3B-B3D7-8CA45A418D1F Wed, 18 May 2011 13:16:54 -0400 Join transportation and planning experts who will highlight the best practices for advancing equity in regional sustainable communities planning. Sponsored by Smart Growth America, PolicyLink, Reconnecting America and the National Housing Conference the webinar will take place on May 24 at 3:30 PM. https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/schedule/display.do?udc=vg44l5o9tfbw 0B9BEE35-B9EA-42F2-A4F4-9C2A9FB360B0 Tue, 17 May 2011 13:16:13 -0400 A recently released study lists the Commonwealth as one of the nation's leaders in developing the goals, performance measures and data needed to help decision makers ensure their transportation systems are advancing economic growth, mobility and other key policy outcomes. The report assessed investments in transportation to illustrate how limited taxpayer funds for transportation impact measurable objectives. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=742 AC4FC9CE-1D0A-4FD3-AB92-55B919467265 Thu, 12 May 2011 13:26:53 -0400 Secretary Connaughton signed an agreement which will facilitate the exchange of data, information and best practices between the Commonwealth and the Federal Republic of Germany on a range of transit and transportation initiatives. The agreement provides for the exchange in a number of areas including the development and application of intercity passenger rail and high-speed passenger rail, transit-oriented development, environmentally friendly transportation systems and innovative mechanisms to provide congestion relief http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=541 DC01AADF-E2BD-44C0-8D72-1BADE5BA4D76 Wed, 11 May 2011 13:26:21 -0400 Sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association the event will take place May 22-25 in Memphis, TN. The conference will include a series of interactive sessions focused on accessibility, business practices, operations/maintenance/management, policy/planning/marketing, safety and security, sustainability, technology, and workforce development. http://www.apta.com/mc/bus/Pages/default.aspx 2697EECC-6DB3-40F5-91B5-44B0F5A5B87B Mon, 9 May 2011 13:26:08 -0400 Beginning June 10, Robert H. Wilson will oversee the state’s public transportation, human service transportation and transportation demand management programs. The former executive director of the George Washington Regional Commission will also guide strategic planning for the transit and transportation demand management areas to ensure that the agency’s programs provide congestion relief, deliver public benefits and incorporate land use considerations in transportation planning. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=540 F4B3889E-0394-4E41-AE03-9451AF03A198 Fri, 6 May 2011 14:34:57 -0400 Space is limited so register today for the Virginia Transit Association sponsored event on May 18! Two experts will address access, operations and safety issues when integrating transit services, bicyclists and pedestrians. https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/336672155 A63D4BFC-04BF-4392-B3EE-BBECC666C9E3 Wed, 4 May 2011 14:34:27 -0400 Created by Human Media, this four part public radio series highlights the environmental and economic impacts of public transportation, the latest in high speed rail and a Virginian’s car-free challenge. You can listen online or download the series for free, there is also an option to purchase a two-set CD pack. http://www.humanmedia.org/passengers/ DB551EE0-4EF5-4A24-AA8D-5DD1258CF95B Mon, 2 May 2011 14:33:59 -0400 Amtrak is turning 40 this year and to help celebrate, they are letting their youngest fans onboard for free. If you book a trip now through May 6, 2011, and travel May 1 through June 9, 2011, your family can join in the celebration, and the kids will ride free http://amtrakvirginia.com/News.aspx 1591B837-BC75-446D-A6BD-93CA953C0073 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 09:34:17 -0400 Sponsored by Commuter Information, Central Virginia commuters are encouraged to pledge to use a commuting option other than driving alone for at least one day. Participants are eligible to win valuable prizes, and transit agencies will be offering free rides during the event. http://www.commuterinformation.com/ 16C000F7-DE9F-46AC-8168-6A5F9A4AB5C3 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:33:59 -0400 The two Car-Free Diet skeptics challengers, have started their 30 days of car-free living. You can follow along on their adventure as they Tweet, post on Facebook, blog and make videos about the challenge. http://www.carfreedietblog.com/ 59613786-FAD7-41CA-A4EE-774257243DBF Tue, 26 Apr 2011 09:33:23 -0400 As part of his Earth Day celebration, Governor McDonnell launched his Virginia Transportation Challenge, which asks Virginians to try a form of transportation other than driving once every two weeks. By participating, you will not only be helping the environment, but also working to eliminate rush-hour congestion! http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=538 0B981F0C-1A6E-4DFB-8A92-D5E99B561E35 Fri, 22 Apr 2011 11:02:00 -0400 The Working Draft of the Fiscal Year 2012-2017 Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP) is now available. The Commonwealth Transportation Board will hold public meetings April 27 in Hampton Roads, May 4 in Northern Virginia, May 12 in Salem, and May 18 in Richmond to gain feedback on the funding. http://drpt.virginia.gov/about/files/FY12%20SYIP%20Draft.pdf 0BD3EC02-AA7F-4F13-BB7D-7C56AC99B7ED Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:01:37 -0400 Celebrate on April 29 and 30 by viewing The Tide, Hampton Roads Transit’s light rail, which will be open to the public for the first time. The MacArthur Square Station will be filled with activities for adults and kids of all ages! http://www.gohrt.com/announcements/2011/04/safety-day.pdf F2D80DF8-BDAA-4C04-9E2E-F12A58C09950 Tue, 19 Apr 2011 11:01:03 -0400 Amtrak's Reservation and Ticketing system will undergo a major upgrade and will not be available for a portion of Sunday, April 17. During this period, Amtrak will have very limited ability to issue tickets, provide train status information, and create or modify reservations. Amtrak will not be able to accept credit card payments via the Internet, by telephone, or travel agency outlets and will have only limited ability at station ticket counters. In addition, Quik-Trak kiosks will be unavailable during this period. http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&cid=1248543457209 7A1F6610-9852-464F-8251-05CC1F791DEA Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:46:52 -0400 This CNN article asks lawmakers, specialists and policymakers common questions regarding the benefits and costs of high speed rail in America. The questions come directly from comments on CNN.com articles and provide national and international examples to back up their claims. http://www.cnn.com/2011/POLITICS/04/13/high.speed.rail.fact.check/ 706653B9-D55E-4280-B68E-4743338AEAC1 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:47:08 -0400 Sponsored by Telework Exchange, the May 24 event will focus on best practices for managing remote workers and the technology requirements needed to support a robust telework program. Agency representatives will discuss their Telework Week experiences; sharing methods of managing remote workers, lessons learned from Telework Week, and how remote technology enabled seamless communication with employees. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/bestpractices/ 5561B0EA-A2E8-4010-B740-784629CA5205 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 13:47:31 -0400 Virginia Secretary of Transportation, Sean T. Connaughton, has expressed frustration over the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority decision to build the tunnel instead of a proposed aerial option through the Dulles airport. The tunnel could add hundreds of millions to the project cost. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/News/viewRelease.cfm?id=672 1970C8F9-3872-4FD7-84A4-418BD2F00AF0 Thu, 7 Apr 2011 15:28:38 -0400 Beginning April 11, contestants will be asked to log their commute times and methods online daily, with each entry eligible to win a prize. The goal of the five-day challenge is to help participants become aware of the benefits of alternative modes of transportation. Results will be released during Earth Week. http://www.facilities.vt.edu/tcs/alternative/challenge.asp 8045D942-A771-4F83-873F-1363467CDAB3 Wed, 6 Apr 2011 15:27:55 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association report, "The Case for Business Investment in High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail" enforces that investments in high-speed and intercity rail will have many direct and indirect benefits. The study shows that building a rail system will not only lead to a large increase in construction jobs, but also to the sustainable, long-term growth of new manufacturing and service jobs across the country http://www.apta.com/resources/reportsandpublications/Documents/HSRPub_final.pdf 32BB9374-F09B-4BB3-A52B-D16B6B6EBD31 Tue, 5 Apr 2011 15:27:37 -0400 RideFinders, has expanded its internet reach! You can now "like" the group on Facebook, follow them on Twitter and view commercials on their YouTube page. Simply search "RideFinders" in each outlet and stay up-to-date with the latest news and information! http://www.ridefinders.com/FrontEnd/HTML/index.asp 8C118E42-42A8-4C01-8F4C-8FCCE6DB2C4A Mon, 4 Apr 2011 09:20:02 -0400 The Telework Exchange has released a report highlighting the impacts of National Telework Week, an effort that encouraged employees to telework during the week of February 14-18, 2011. With over 39,000 participants, the week removed over 1,500 tons of pollutants while increasing employee productivity. http://www.greenbiz.com/news/2011/03/30/national-telework-week-nets-3m-savings 5DAE5BD2-F50F-4901-AA2C-DCA644EBD7EE Tue, 29 Mar 2011 09:19:36 -0400 With 50 "pit stops" in the northern Virginia/DC/Maryland area, you won’t want to miss out on the fun and entertainment. Registration is free and you have until May 20 to prepare! http://www.waba.org/events/btwd/ 2144597B-5D5E-4484-9AD4-C19A1229FDD9 Fri, 25 Mar 2011 09:48:57 -0400 Amtrak Guest Rewards members can earn double points on qualifying Amtrak travel now through May 7, 2011. And, members can earn triple points on qualifying travel starting National Train Day, May 7 through May 21, 2011. Amtrak Virginia makes it easy to travel to cities in the Northeast, such as NYC, Boston, D.C., and more! http://amtrakvirginia.com/News.aspx F01A51C6-7572-43FE-A2AC-B51BB0857350 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 09:48:32 -0400 A recent American Public Transportation Association study predicts that as gas prices rise, Americans will turn to public transportation in record numbers. Many public transit systems across the country are already seeing double-digit percentage increases as compared to this time last year. http://www.apta.com/resources/reportsandpublications/Documents/APTA_Effect_of_Gas_Price_Increase_2011.pdf D7F31737-8012-4B81-BF68-77BCF271B15E Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:48:07 -0400 Voting closes March 31 for the Car-Free Diet Skeptics Challenge. Down to five finalists, two will be chosen to attempt to go car-free for 30 days and to chronicle their journey. The contest, sponsored by the County of Arlington, asked frequent car riders to create a video explaining why they would be up for the challenge http://carfreedietskeptics.com/ AEAAD985-B919-42EB-BC29-169429DA0E6F Fri, 18 Mar 2011 13:36:57 -0400 March marks two years since construction has begun on phase one of the Dulles Metrorail Project, which will transform Tyson’s Corner by extending the Metrorail system 23 miles and adding 11 stations. Their March newsletter provides an update on progress as well as pictures from the past two years of construction. http://www.dullesmetro.com/pdfs/11MAR_DullesMetroNewsletter.pdf 06237D4B-7435-4B75-9B8A-2BDE6286789F Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:36:32 -0400 Every Tyson’s business leader should attend this free event to learn about construction schedules, traffic impacts, information for commuters and more. The April 7 event will also include an executive briefing on the Capital Beltway HOT lanes and the Dulles Metrorail Project. http://www.mwcog.org/commuter2/pdf/upcoming-events/MajorConstructionContinuesInTysonsIn-2011.pdf 47E03B15-8C09-4019-8A61-7DEAD56D12A3 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:36:09 -0400 Designated by the General Assembly, the day will help all Virginians understand the importance of safety around light rail trains, with various events throughout the Commonwealth. The Tide, Virginia’s first light rail, is scheduled to begin operations this year. http://www.gohrt.com/light-rail-safety-day/ E524ED76-48B4-4F5B-84DD-002A1792F35A Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:12:37 -0500 The American Public Transportation Association is accepting applications for the 2011 APTA awards. The deadline for nominations, in the seven categories, is April 22nd and winners will be announced in October. Help us brag about Virginia’s public transit system! http://www.apta.com/members/memberprogramsandservices/awards/Pages/APTAAwards.aspx 0A6B77C4-6F05-46B1-AF1A-DE4FC0F21B87 Wed, 9 Mar 2011 11:10:10 -0500 Does having access to Virginia’s transportation choices increase your productivity level? Help avoid the traffic? Save time and money while staying green? DRPT wants to know! Share you stories with us about how access to transportation choices has helped you. Send your stories to DRPTPR@drpt.virginia.gov. http://drpt.virginia.gov/contact/default.aspx 532E0327-E151-49FF-9474-68F96AF8CD6D Tue, 8 Mar 2011 11:09:22 -0500 A report for the Commonwealth’s Department of Transportation predicts the plan will also support more than 105,642 jobs through spin-off projects and other investments, if the plan, which passed the General Assembly, is fully implemented. Additionally, the result of the transportation investment would generate $119.8 million in tax revenue for the state, and $10.4 million of benefits for local governments over that same period. http://www.virginiadot.org/news/resources/Statewide/sectran/Plan_VDOT_Executive_Summary.pdf 93788210-170E-4A16-8180-496E0184BC57 Fri, 4 Mar 2011 10:02:16 -0500 With President Obama’s recently signed Telework Enhancement Act, it is more important than ever to put your agencies telework plan into action. The meeting, taking place on April 28 in Washington, D.C., will address management and technology needs for building, implementing, and measuring telework programs. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/townhallmeeting/ 07FDFE88-B810-49D0-A694-ABEB71BD3AC9 Wed, 2 Mar 2011 10:01:41 -0500 Picasso: Masterpieces from the Musée National Picasso, Paris is currently on display at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Amtrak Virginia has teamed up with Richmond hotels to offer exclusive packages for this once in a lifetime event! Take the stress out of traveling with Amtrak Virginia; you won’t want to miss it! The exhibit runs through May 15. http://amtrakvirginia.com/news.aspx AE95B8F3-AC6F-4FBE-A613-0B95E00D17DE Tue, 1 Mar 2011 10:00:54 -0500 Be sure to apply by February 28 for the Arlington County sponsored challenge, by creating a short video about your car-dependency. Applicants must be willing to try going car free for 30 days, and will share that experience on the official challenge website. Two finalists will get everything they need to travel car free around Arlington and the Washington, D.C. metro area for up to a year! http://www.carfreedietskeptics.com/ 39D1B0AC-C3A4-497C-B580-78D94E7F0992 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:35:26 -0500 Governor McDonnell announced that FreightCar America will produce the high-capacity cars in the Roanoke, VA plant, which will create around 200 jobs. Manufacturing for the $100 million order will begin in May. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=614 71B2E193-4DDC-482F-8482-CC7E08CB808F Thu, 24 Feb 2011 09:34:51 -0500 The Natural Resources Defense Council’s study chose the area thanks to its "aggressive efforts to offer commuters alternatives to driving." Featured transit services include the Metro, Capital Bikeshare, the DC Streetcar and various online transit searching tools. http://smartercities.nrdc.org/topic/transportation/americas-smartest-regions-transportation 8BC6896B-A21B-4A25-92EE-EBDD834AC0C2 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:34:09 -0500 Within the next five to 10 years more than 50 percent of transit workers are expected to retire. In this article, Progressive Railroading explores some of the different ways various transit organizations are preparing for the reduction in workforce. Specific development and recruitment programs are highlighted and ideas to deal with this problem in the current economy are explored. http://progressiverailroading.com/pr/article/Workforce-Rail-transit-agencies-seek-to-ramp-up-recruitment-efforts--25732 91B4D05E-BD07-41CF-81C9-99C79CE80F08 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 09:22:37 -0500 A nationwide search is underway for a new DRPT Chief of Public Transportation. The position will help shape public transportation in Virginia and will develop key policy directives for the agency to increase the efficiency of Virginia’s existing public transportation system, as well as plan for future system expansions. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/about/Careers.aspx 06E2BE4D-52B0-47E1-B100-39BCBB54D481 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 09:20:45 -0500 Each Tuesday over the next 10 weeks, Streetfilms.org will post a new chapter to their video series which explores solutions to the problem of automobile dependency. Topics include transit oriented development, bus rapid transit and car pooling. They will also soon be posting curriculum that includes lessons plans and discussion points for each film. Check it out! http://www.streetfilms.org/trailer-moving-beyond-the-automobile/#more-49079 3F33608E-E479-44AB-8A32-85EEC3A95C8F Tue, 15 Feb 2011 09:19:17 -0500 In preparation of the start of The Tide, Hampton Roads Transit is inviting the public to show how "Light Rail Safety Starts with You!" by producing an original video or poster to help spread the word about light rail safety. The contest will run until April 7, and winners will be featured in the light rail safety campaign. http://www.gohrt.com/about/contest/ 52BAF398-9633-4DCE-9519-0CA4F41F9FB9 Fri, 11 Feb 2011 13:27:32 -0500 With President Obama’s goal of getting 80 percent of Americans access to high speed rail in 25 years, the administration announced a plan to ask Congress to invest $53 billion over six years to continue construction of a national high-speed and intercity passenger rail network. The plan was cast by the administration as vital to keeping the U.S. competitive with world markets that already use the technology. http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/02/08/vice-president-biden-announces-six-year-plan-build-national-high-speed-r 26802974-A523-43DA-A192-043F83A76327 Wed, 9 Feb 2011 13:26:56 -0500 National Telework Week starts February 14 and has over 16,000 pledges which will help save over 1 million pounds of pollutants and over $1 million! Help the environment, your wallet and your productivity, and pledge to participate today. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/ 3EEEAF12-C396-4F75-AE9F-2034C7DB6CBF Tue, 8 Feb 2011 13:26:15 -0500 Amtrak Virginia has partnered with Richmond area hotels to bring you exclusive packages for Picasso: Masterpieces from the Musée National Picasso, Paris. Held at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, this once in a lifetime exhibit is only making one appearance on the East Coast. You won’t want to miss this rare opportunity! http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=528 D236047C-27C3-4F5D-8E0C-460BDBF5C126 Fri, 4 Feb 2011 13:15:58 -0500 Hear from federal leaders about plans to step up the national high speed rail program, listen to senior elected officials discuss the importance of maintaining the 'political sustainability' needed to get it built, and, learn about the growing support among the business community for high speed rail. Register today for the conference, sponsored by the U.S. High Speed Rail Association, taking place from February 8-10 in Washington D.C. http://www.ushsr.com/events/washingtondc2011.html 623570AA-F28A-4FAA-BA76-6CB433713107 Thu, 3 Feb 2011 13:15:10 -0500 Don’t forget to get your FY 2012 funding grant applications to DRPT by February 9! http://drpt.virginia.gov/default.aspx 67F07693-9107-4D53-9A13-31D67629ED6E Wed, 2 Feb 2011 13:14:32 -0500 Progressive Railroading has published an article regarding how transit agencies are entering the social media world. The pros and cons of joining different networks are discussed, as well as examples of successful social media transit ventures. http://progressiverailroading.com/pr/article/Social-media-Transit-agencies-connect-with-riders-in-new-ways--25447 8B9D8DD0-E9CA-4F4A-BFAE-1A513D19B7FD Fri, 28 Jan 2011 10:15:49 -0500 Can plaintiffs rely on ADA violations to prove negligence? Does compliance with the ADA constitute a defense? How should transit systems defend claims that involve violations of the ADA? These questions, and more, will be answered during the event, sponsored by the Virginia Transit Association, on February 18. Register today! http://www.vatransit.com/ BE64C4A3-0628-4C71-BAC4-177134D10A00 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 10:13:00 -0500 Give your car a rest and don’t forget to pledge to telework one day between February 14 -18. More than 5,800 people have already pledged to telework, saving more than $350,000 in costs during national Telework Week. Governor McDonnell has declared that state government will participate in the event. http://teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/ 37983EFB-CD89-46A9-8652-807299EBF3F4 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 10:11:50 -0500 The Texas Transportation Institute released its 2010 Urban Mobility Report, which looked at road congestion in United States urban areas, including Richmond, Northern Virginia and Virginia Beach. The study also shows that 640 million gallons of fuel were saved by using public transportation. http://mobility.tamu.edu/ums/media_information/press_release.stm A632B517-8837-4F21-A81D-C41ED695F108 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:15:20 -0500 The awards recognize excellence in government telework programs and their accomplishments in seven categories. Application submissions are due by Thursday, March 17 and the winners will be announced at a reception on Wednesday, June 8. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/2011awards/?utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Telework%20Exchange%20Weekly%20Blasts&org=2022&lvl=100&ite=938&lea=1564785&ctr=0&par=1 2E07AF51-5A37-499B-BEFD-F1FE6E2CC5D3 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:14:53 -0500 "Green For All: How Railroads Are Creating Pro-Planet Initiatives that Better the Bottom Line," will review the economic benefits of 'greening' throughout a rail organization and provide key steps railroads should consider as they plan their eco-friendly programs. CSX Director of Environmental Systems will describe the ways CSX is "walking the green walk," from reducing emissions to cutting fuel usage to boosting energy efficiency at corporate offices. http://www.progressiverailroading.com/webinar/PR_greenforall/ D8851200-FA80-4413-94D5-97207A6BF350 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:13:33 -0500 American Type Culture Collection, Comcast Corporation, George Mason University’s Prince William campus, and Micron Technology have all been named Gold Level Employers in recognition of the variety of commuter benefits and programs they offer to their employees. In order to meet the Gold Level standard, employers had to offer at least four different benefits or programs to improve employee commutes and encourage alternatives to driving alone. http://www.prtctransit.org/about-us/press-releases/press_releases.php?docid=76 E14EA2B6-2343-4E9D-B2AC-2BAD8CB161E4 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:26:23 -0500 Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell, Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley and District of Columbia Mayor Vincent C. Gray announced an implementation plan and schedule for transforming governance of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). The plan responds to recommendations in the Moving Metro Forward report that was issued by the Joint WMATA Governance Task Force and the Report on Governance of WMATA issued by WMATA's Riders' Advisory Council (RAC). http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=550 A49F053A-17F6-4067-A11E-CF2A922845D7 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:25:54 -0500 With rising gas prices in 2011, the American Transportation Association found in its Transit Savings Report that riding public transportation can save individuals, on average $9,656 annually, and up to $805 per month. Start the year off right by saving on gas and parking! http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2011/Pages/110601_TransitSavingsReport.aspx CA560B7B-8879-439D-82BF-52A8F51A1B76 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:24:25 -0500 The law reauthorizes funding for modernizing older diesel engines and equipment, including those used in trains and buses. One hundred million a year for five years will be provided through federal and state grants, loans and rebate programs. http://www.progressiverailroading.com/news/article/President-Obama-reauthorizes-dieselengine-emission-act--25401 8143424A-B97C-4F6B-B708-38E27558964F Thu, 6 Jan 2011 13:17:35 -0500 The report provides an overview of state, regional and local programs that fund transit-oriented development (TOD) projects and plans. It focuses on three categories-planning, implementation and property acquisition, and can be used as a resource for planners and policymakers who create TOD programs in their jurisdictions http://www.reconnectingamerica.org/public/stories/2535 3778C7FE-F694-48A1-91AA-7093848E427D Wed, 5 Jan 2011 13:16:55 -0500 The Compact, which works to advance high-speed rail initiatives between Washington, D.C., and Charlotte, N.C., will meet on Friday, January 7 in Richmond. Topics of discussion at the meeting will include updates on corridor developments and railroad agreements, and updates from high speed rail advocacy organizations. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=526 67DDC39C-B47C-4AF6-AC1A-BA34D137B1BB Tue, 4 Jan 2011 13:16:11 -0500 Did you know that teleworking can lead to a 22 percent increase in employee productivity, while helping to increase quality of life and reduce impacts on the environment? Experience these benefits by taking part in National Telework Week, held February 14-18, 2011. By pledging to telework for one day during the week, you will discover how telework can work for you. To find out how many individuals and businesses have pledged and to see estimated benefits, visit the Telework Exchange Web site. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/ 2F35CE81-60DE-4A9E-A9F3-9DCC7C85CBD9 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 10:00:59 -0500 Public meetings were held in Hampton Roads last month to provide information on the Hampton Roads Regional Transit Vision Plan, which provides recommendations and a long-term vision plan for transit in the region. The public comment period for the recommendations presented in the study closes tomorrow, December 30, 2010, so submit your comments today! http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/activities/hrrtvp.aspx 7516B9EA-DF79-41C8-AC32-3B77A7FDBDD5 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 10:00:14 -0500 The Association has created a Public Transportation Wall to encourage individuals to share their stories through video or written testimonials about how public transportation impacts their life. The Wall will be used to show Congress the need for a multi-year surface transportation bill. http://wall.publictransportation.org/ E8C61126-E027-4AF1-A260-0F4FA7489C4A Mon, 27 Dec 2010 09:59:30 -0500 Governor McDonnell recently announced that the Commonwealth has executed a key agreement with Norfolk Southern that will allow new intercity passenger rail service to Norfolk to begin within three years. The Amtrak round-trip train will link Norfolk to Richmond, Washington, D.C., and cities as far north as Boston. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/News/viewRelease.cfm?id=531 325B28A4-5C95-4058-A8DB-E96F6AC64307 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:51:55 -0500 In response to the recently signed Telework Enhancement Act, the Telework Exchange has published a study which outlines telework improvement opportunities and best practices from leading advisors and experts. The report offers a roadmap for agencies launching and/or enhancing telework programs in 2011. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/frombilltobuilding/ 01C461EA-3548-4076-ACAB-7ECDBFB72D40 Sat, 18 Dec 2010 11:51:01 -0500 Double-stack trains will soon begin rolling along the new Commonwealth Railway Mainline, a secure, dual-purpose rail corridor that eliminates 14 at-grade crossings while improving the efficiency of The Port of Virginias rail service. The 4.5 mile-long project, completed in coordination with the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation and the Virginia Department of Transportation, creates efficient container cargo moving to and from the VPA’s terminal in Portsmouth http://blog.portofvirginia.com/my-blog/2010/12/rail-operating-agreement-approved-trains-expected-to-roll-next-week.html 8A3F1488-BA1B-4FBD-9F49-BB62BA1E24BC Fri, 17 Dec 2010 11:50:27 -0500 The 2nd Annual Car Free Diet Challenge, designed to help get Virginians out of their cars and onto bikes and transit, will begin accepting applications January 3, 2011. The contest, organized by Arlington County Commuter Services, is seeking drivers who are skeptical about ditching their cars but willing to try it for 30 days while documenting their progress. http://www.carfreedietskeptics.com/stage/vote/ 15ACCBF4-8E8C-4515-B01D-02F35069C1E4 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 11:49:20 -0500 President Obama recently signed the Telework Enhancement Act, which requires Federal agencies to establish telework policies for their employees within six months. Agencies must set up interactive training programs for employees and managers, designate telework managing officers and incorporate telework into their continuity of operations plans. http://www.federaltimes.com/article/20101209/PERSONNEL03/12090303/ F51976B3-AE67-4041-8863-A95868ADB252 Thu, 9 Dec 2010 14:53:50 -0500 Governor McDonnell outlined his proposals for transportation funding at the Governor’s Transportation Conference in Roanoke. The plan would place $4 billion into road, transit and rail projects in the Commonwealth over the next three years. The Governor will seek General Assembly approval on his proposals during the 2011 regular session which begins January 12, 2011. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=507 48F72F38-FCF3-4B6F-9804-C9CA4A26D1CF Thu, 9 Dec 2010 14:53:03 -0500 Governor McDonnell has announced that the Bay Coast Railroad Car Barge will resume service next week. The barge, which was removed from service last year for repairs, provides connecting service between the Virginia's Eastern Shore and Norfolk/Virginia Beach. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=497 ABC58617-9116-4086-A2C2-2EE9F6F6DA59 Tue, 7 Dec 2010 14:51:57 -0500 The U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) recently released a study promoting high speed rail development in the U.S. “A Track Record of Success: High-Speed Rail Around the World and its Promise for America” provides information on the benefits of implementing high speed rail, including economic growth, reduced pollution and congestion, and energy conservation. http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/aptapt/issues/2010-11-22/2.html 5B5647E5-011A-461A-BE7F-FE16176CD54E Thu, 2 Dec 2010 14:24:55 -0500 Public meetings were held November 30 and December 1, 2010, to provide information on the Hampton Roads Regional Transit Vision Plan, which provides recommendations and a long-term vision plan for regional transit in Hampton Roads. The public is invited to provide feedback on the recommendations during the official public comment period, which closes December 24, 2010. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/activities/hrrtvp.aspx 4A3851B2-4632-4856-8A34-C53920942253 Thu, 2 Dec 2010 14:24:18 -0500 The Telework Exchange is hosting a complimentary Webcast, "The Telework Big Picture," Wednesday, December 15, 2010, that will focus on the essentials of building a telework program, including identifying program requirements, building the business case for telework and determining appropriate technology solutions. National Telework Week will also be discussed as a way to jump start telework programs. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/webcast1/ 6AE5A5A7-DCC7-4F73-8CC9-E6E43E95EC1A Tue, 30 Nov 2010 14:22:46 -0500 Hampton Roads Transit, Williamsburg Area Transit Authority and the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation will hold public meetings November 30 and December 1 to provide information and receive feedback on the future of transit in the region. The Hampton Roads Regional Transit Vision Plan will evaluate potential enhancements and new transit, light rail and ferry services. An official public comment period on the project will be open November 30 to December 24. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/ 9CAE9F21-46DC-4749-957D-B496EB895FF1 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:52:26 -0500 Pledge now to try telework during the national Telework Week event, held February 14-18, 2010. By pledging to telework for one day during Telework Week, sponsored by Telework Exchange and Cisco, you will save money, reduce congestion and help lower greenhouse gas emissions. To find out how many individuals and businesses have pledged and to see estimated benefits, visit the Telework Exchange Web site. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkweek/ 627BE167-94B2-4CD6-A562-5FDCB9DE8C18 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:51:59 -0500 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) awarded Amtrak $12.85 million for its Advanced Civil Speed Enforcement System in the Northeast Corridor, which will help Amtrak achieve interoperability between its Positive Train Control (PTC) system and the Virtual Train Management Systems (VTMS) used by freight railroads in the corridor. Amtrak was one of only seven operators to receive funding through this $50 million program, which received 41 applications requesting more than $228 million. http://progressiverailroading.com/news/article/USDOT-provides-50-million-in-grants-for-seven-PTC-projects--25109 D656E804-D5B5-4579-8640-457F0F9AEC0C Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:51:32 -0500 The Amtrak Virginia train on the Lynchburg route has exceeded its annual performance targets for its first full year of operation. The train, which provides a daily one-seat ride as far north as Boston, exceeded its yearly ridership target by 147.2 percent and its yearly revenue target by 145.6 percent. The Richmond Amtrak Virginia train has also experienced strong ridership, and on-time performance for both services exceeds the state average. http://amtrakvirginia.com/News.aspx 4535B930-4500-4799-942B-363AB608D4D4 Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:40:31 -0500 According to a study conducted by a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, employees who telework experience higher job satisfaction than their peers who work in the office. The study points out that working from home alleviates the stresses of the workplace. In addition, it finds that productivity at home is on par with productivity in the office environment. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/work/Teleworkers-more-satisfied/articleshow/6935953.cms F9A5EF4D-E5D6-426F-BCDC-C483F1379447 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:40:09 -0500 The official public comment period for the Broad Street Rapid Transit Study will close November 19. The study is examining improvements in the Broad Street corridor to provide rapid transit service, increase mobility and support transit-oriented development. http://study.ridegrtc.com/ DA48050A-FE71-40A4-A002-2DBC6191A358 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:39:39 -0500 The Performance Institute will host a free webinar November 17 at 2:00 p.m., to provide tips on managing teleworkers, establishing and integrating a telework program and measuring its productivity. Jon Desenberg, senior policy director of the Performance Institute will address attendees during the 90 minute presentation. http://registration.performanceweb.org/admin/files/PDF/R371-Flyer.pdf 0AEABD72-E297-4B48-BC8E-ABC2B2E33B08 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 14:39:34 -0500 According to the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) November 2010 Transit Savings Report, riding public transportation can save individuals up to $793 per month. That’s as much as $9,515 annually! Savings in November 2010 are up 3.5 percent compared to savings reported in November 2009. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2010/Pages/101109_TransitSavingsReport.aspx 55EBDFB6-C853-4FBA-ACFA-9DACB41455A0 Tue, 9 Nov 2010 14:39:13 -0500 Register now to attend “High Speed Rail in the Southeast—Making It Happen,” the Southeast High Speed Rail Association’s 2010 conference. Join experts in the industry next Tuesday, November 16, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, to learn about high speed rail service development in Virginia and its many benefits. http://www.southeasthsr.org/2010conference 762AE479-859E-45D4-B812-749C738AA20D Mon, 8 Nov 2010 14:38:24 -0500 Arlington recently broke ground on improvements to the Rosslyn Metro Station including a $32.6 million station expansion, new entrance, high speed elevators and safety improvements which will help increase station traffic by about 2,000 passengers per hour. The Rosslyn Station Project, anticipated for completion in 2013, is a public-private partnership among Arlington County, DRPT, WMATA and several other key partners. http://www.arlingtonva.us/departments/Communications/PressReleases/page78754.aspx 7B102ACD-C9DD-411C-BC11-E8295D8A7E71 Mon, 1 Nov 2010 16:28:19 -0400 Public meetings for the Columbia Pike Transit Initiative will be held November 15 and 18 in Falls Church and Arlington, respectively. Participants can learn more about the initiative, which includes a proposed streetcar line from Bailey’s Crossroads in Fairfax County to Pentagon City in Arlington County, through a presentation and question and answer session as well as break-out discussions on alignment, station stops and facilities. http://piketransit.com/ 337A2EDE-3C49-4B55-810B-36E8184526ED Thu, 4 Nov 2010 16:27:54 -0400 DRPT proudly announces that Chief of Public Transportation Corey Hill and Chief of Rail Transportation Kevin Page have been honored by their peers as stand outs in the transportation industry. Hill was honored as one of Mass Transit Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 for his 15 years championing public transit in Virginia, while Page received Amtrak’s 2010 President’s Service and Safety Award for State Partnership, honoring his exceptional contributions to passenger rail in Virginia. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=519 C8535E70-E10D-454B-A757-98384E1217D7 Fri, 5 Nov 2010 16:27:19 -0400 U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood recently announced that the Commonwealth has been awarded $45.5 million in federal funding under the High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail (HSIPR) Program to support infrastructure improvements and advance federal high speed rail planning in the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor. The new funding will enable the Commonwealth to move one step closer to achieving its goal of high speed rail service. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=518 CCA2ECC6-A15F-48C7-A6D4-CF424392D349 Thu, 28 Oct 2010 15:41:15 -0400 Join the Southeast High Speed Rail Association at its 2010 Southeast High Speed Rail Conference, “High Speed Rail in the Southeast – Making it Happen,” on November 16, 2010, to learn about high speed rail service development in the Commonwealth and the benefits it can offer. The conference will take place from 8:00 a.m., to 5:30 p.m., at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. http://www.southeasthsr.org/2010conference 6F1FB274-AB1B-41E7-874D-3C5C7170FA11 Thu, 28 Oct 2010 15:40:48 -0400 HNTB Corporation’s recently released America THINKS survey indicates that 87 percent of Americans with access to public transit make use of the service, and 69 percent think that using public transit can be a better choice than driving. Survey respondents identified the three greatest benefits of transit service as reduced traffic congestion, money savings and environmental benefits. Have you experienced these advantages? Try transit in your community to discover how you can benefit http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/aptapt/issues/2010-10-25/10.html 99924B98-7D2C-4C04-8990-4C7865666705 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 15:40:40 -0400 The U.S Department of Transportation and the Department of Treasury recently announced that a refinancing agreement between the U.S. government and Amtrak will save taxpayers approximately $162 million. The Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 permitted Treasury to study ways to repay or restructure Amtrak’s debt that would save the taxpayer and the railroad money, and to take action on its findings. Treasury will exercise early buyout options on 13 existing high-cost leases over the next three years, which will lead to $162 million in savings. http://www.progressiverailroading.com/news/article.asp?id=24801 89C3BE4F-89B2-456B-AE1C-1649ACDC8B88 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 09:18:21 -0400 The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced its selections for funding through the competitive Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) II grant program, including a $100,000 planning grant to help revitalize the Hull Street corridor in Richmond, Va. In addition to encouraging economic development, the project will also help develop connectivity and promote the development of multi-modal transportation choices in the corridor. http://www.dot.gov/docs/tiger2planninggrantinfo.pdf ED371ECA-CBA2-4276-8593-97514898E9DF Wed, 20 Oct 2010 09:17:52 -0400 The Regional Aging in Place Conference will be held in Norfolk, Va. October 29, with Thelma Drake, director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, providing the keynote address. The conference, which will focus on transportation and housing for seniors, is sponsored in part by Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia, a Commonwealth human service agency, as well as the City of Norfolk and the Norfolk Department of Human Services. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssdetails.aspx?id=41 4582A644-C454-41D9-8813-FA7FCE5919B8 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 09:16:21 -0400 Join GRTC and DRPT tonight and tomorrow for public meetings on the Broad Street Rapid Transit Study. During the meetings the public will learn more about how Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) can use a combination of enhanced transit services, stations and roadway improvements to provide faster, more efficient transit service in Richmond and Henrico County. The meetings will take place from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the DMV and Main Street Station. http://study.ridegrtc.com/ 6F5ADE8F-273B-4E7B-B52B-8CF430F2E37B Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:47:46 -0400 A new American Public Transportation Association (APTA) report indicates that people who use public transit can save an average of $9,499 annually or $792 per month simply by switching to transit. Calculate how much you can save at www.publictransportation.org. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2010/Pages/101015_TSR.aspx C9DCFC91-7FAC-469F-B877-99C1BEF87E44 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 17:05:24 -0400 ITS Virginia will host its Technology Information Exchange November 10 in Charlottesville, Va. Join ITS Virginia, which uses technology to help enhance the Commonwealth’s transportation network, to learn more about transit ITS activity, including a recent communications plan and Standards Working Group activity. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssdetails.aspx?id=40 F6190EEF-7258-4DAD-94C2-5B31B1D0B68C Wed, 13 Oct 2010 17:05:02 -0400 Telework Exchange, a public-private partnership focused on encouraging telework, will host a free Webcast October 21 to provide information on successful telework programs. Panelists will include Josh Sawislak of Telework Exchange, Bobby Caudill of Adobe Systems and Patrina Clark of the U.S. Government Accountability office. Register your space for the Webcast now! http://www.teleworkexchange.com/gainingmanagementsupport/ EA7B11FF-0BFE-4CC0-9F78-1CE2EFD34CF8 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 17:04:37 -0400 GRTC Transit System wants your feedback on the Broad Street Rapid Transit Study, which is evaluating bus rapid transit options along Broad Street in Richmond. Information meetings will be held October 19 and 20 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.. Comments can be submitted for the official record through November 19. http://study.ridegrtc.com/ 8C002219-8FA7-4C2E-B2F7-508066DF8C67 Thu, 7 Oct 2010 16:58:49 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration awarded Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) $8.48 million in State of Good Repair funds to help build a new administrative building for approximately 250 HRT employees. HRT was one of only 152 operators awarded funding of the nearly 400 applicants for the highly competitive grant program. http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_12070.html 16135E2A-6C56-4EFC-8FA5-2586D2EC2E6D Mon, 4 Oct 2010 16:58:19 -0400 The Telework Improvements Act, which would expand telework opportunities for federal employees by requiring each executive agency to implement a telework policy, has passed both chambers of Congress. The next step for the legislation is for differences to be resolved in a conference committee before the bill is sent to the President for consideration. http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:h.r.01722: 90258055-9E8F-4C01-964A-B6C93A94779A Mon, 4 Oct 2010 16:57:46 -0400 ITS Virginia, an organization that uses technology to help enhance the Commonwealth’s transportation network, is hosting its Technology Information Exchange November 10. Join ITS Virginia in Charlottesville to learn more about transit ITS activity, including a recent Communications plan and Standards Working Group activity. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssdetails.aspx?id=40 20C60C22-AAEC-4195-94C8-0C60BCC6E0C4 Fri, 1 Oct 2010 16:19:32 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) wants Congress to understand how transit benefits Americans. Post a video on APTA’s new Video Testimonial Wall to tell the world why public transit is important to you and your community and APTA will tell your story to Congress. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2010/Pages/100929_TellingOurStoryWall.aspx 552BE60E-93FA-4A52-A4A2-73365F19E42B Wed, 29 Sep 2010 16:18:37 -0400 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) published Moving Forward: A Progress Report, to provide updated information on the U.S. Department of Transportation National Rail Plan. FRA’s report outlines the importance of improving rail infrastructure nationwide to help manage congestion and improve productivity and quality of life for Americans. http://www.fra.dot.gov/Pages/press-releases/223.shtml 50BD688C-9CD1-489B-9A33-9C0ECCCEAAD5 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 16:17:51 -0400 Virginia Megaprojects is now offering new vanpool riders a reduced monthly rate in the Northern Virginia area to help reduce congestion during Megaproject construction. Virginia Megaprojects’ Transportation Management Plan is offering this incentive as a cost-effective way to avoid congestion in the region. http://www.vamegaprojects.com/commuter-solutions/tysons-bus-services/go-tysons/tysons-commuter-solutions/vanpool-incentive/ F3B942B4-2883-4458-A3C9-FB67B133DE5A Sun, 26 Sep 2010 16:16:11 -0400 Do you want to save money and win prizes just for getting from point A to point B? Pledge to try any form of transit in Virginia by September 24, and you could win a year’s free transit pass and two round-trip Amtrak Virginia tickets! Visit www.trytransitweek.com or call 804-786-4440 to get on board before it’s too late! http://www.trytransitweek.com ACDA6105-866E-4AAD-993D-2D6CAEEF16B5 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 13:35:16 -0400 The Federal government wants to increase telework by 50 percent by the end of FY11. Join Telework Exchange, a public-private partnership focused on increasing telework participation, at the Fall 2010 Town Hall Meeting in Washington D.C. The October 7, 2010, meeting will help you learn strategies to build a successful, sustainable telework program. http://www.teleworkexchange.com 7FAC2978-D7FA-413C-BB7B-142010BDABB3 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 13:34:37 -0400 According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), more than 2.5 billion transit trips were taken nationwide during the second quarter of 2010, causing the first increase in five successive quarters. A decreasing unemployment rate has helped to rally public transit ridership nationwide, as 60 percent of transit trips are to and from work. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2010/Pages/100921_Ridership_2nd_Quarter.aspx B9579C55-41F6-4FD7-BC42-1972ED022D7B Tue, 21 Sep 2010 13:34:03 -0400 Have you thought about trying transit next week? If not, visit www.trytransitweek.com to learn more about how trying transit can help you save money and time. You could even win a year’s free transit pass and two free tickets on Amtrak Virginia if you pledge to try transit. What do you have to lose? Try transit! http://www.trytransitweek.com F08FC39E-70FE-48FB-80FD-0AD91BB05517 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:35:21 -0400 President Obama recently announced a renewed emphasis on transportation investment aimed at jump starting job creation. The plan calls for an up-front $50 billion investment in transportation spending that will be part of a new six-year authorization bill. With the funding announcement, the administration renewed its pledge to work with Congress and the industry on a new authorization bill that expands public transit systems, dedicates significant new funds to the New Starts program, and commits to building on the existing investments in high-speed and intercity passenger rail. http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2010/09/06/president-obama-announce-plan-renew-and-expand-america-s-roads-railways- EEE463EB-04F6-4C39-B2BA-C13935B5BCD0 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 15:34:07 -0400 On September 22, Telework VA! and GRTC Ridefinders will host a free event to educate Richmond businesses on how to use telework as a commuting strategy to go green and help save green! The event will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Richmond, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Register online by September 17. http://www.teleworkva.org/go/news-resources/telework-richmond/ 1483AB31-A09A-463D-8A27-C58652787487 Fri, 10 Sep 2010 13:22:49 -0400 Registration is now open for High Speed Rail in the Southeast – Making it Happen, a conference presented by the Southeast High Speed Rail Association. The conference, which will take place in Richmond, on November 16, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., will focus on ways to advance high speed rail in the Southeast, including integrating high speed rail into local and regional transportation systems and positioning the Southeast for federal funding. http://www.southeasthsr.org/2010conference FA603163-63B7-4FC8-AA40-F955B6A2A558 Thu, 9 Sep 2010 13:22:20 -0400 Next week, The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority will hold two public information workshops to update the public on the latest design plans for Phase 2 of the Dulles Metrorail Project. Workshops will take place on September 13, in Reston, Va., and on September 14, in Sterling, Va. Both workshops will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Comments on the plans will be accepted until October 2. http://www.dullesmetro.com 2A0D29A9-941A-4DBD-8278-38E08A65518E Tue, 7 Sep 2010 13:21:52 -0400 Try Transit Week will take place September 20 – 24, 2010. Virginia has a variety of transportation choices to meet your travel needs. Visit www.trytransitweek.com to learn more about transit available in your area, and to pledge to try transit. Your pledge enters you in the contest to win a one year free transit pass and two tickets on Amtrak Virginia. http://www.trytransitweek.com ECEEB9DC-07C3-4810-AA5B-001E3C1DAC92 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:50:43 -0400 Due to the volume of comments received, North Carolina, Virginia and the Federal Railroad Administration have extended the comment period on the Tier II Draft Environmental Impact Statement which covers the portion of the Southeast High Speed Rail corridor between Richmond, VA and Raleigh, NC. Comments will be accepted on the document until September 10, 2010. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=514 7CC20BF9-5DB5-4B3F-B72D-601E3AF7D648 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:50:20 -0400 The deadline to submit videos, photos and testimonials of the benefits of transportation as part of the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) Tell Our Story initiative is September 1. These testimonials will be used to raise awareness of the importance of funding transit. While on APTA’s Web site, you can view the national public transportation petition which urges Congress to increase funding for public transportation. http://www.apta.com/Pages/default.aspx 9BAC8D48-6640-488E-96B1-367416435789 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 15:49:52 -0400 The Commonwealth recently submitted new applications for funding from the Federal Railroad Administration to advance development of the I-95 Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor. Two applications for a total of approximately $57 million would support infrastructure improvements and advance federal high speed rail planning along the Petersburg to Washington, D.C. section of the corridor. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=513 8175622C-DFA6-4AE8-BD4F-76D551B94E00 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:09:34 -0400 DRPT and Norfolk Southern announced the completion of rail infrastructure improvements along the I-81 rail corridor. A critical choke point on Norfolk Southern’s Crescent Corridor has been eliminated with a reconfigured rail junction near Front Royal, Va. This was the final and most complex of six capacity improvement projects in Northern Virginia to handle more trains at higher speeds. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=512 664586EB-83E3-4349-AD5D-9F21F0A24B97 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:09:06 -0400 Visit the Try Transit Week Web site to learn more about the transit options available in Virginia. Pledge to try transit between September 20 – 24, 2010, and you will be entered in the contest to receive a one year free transit pass and two tickets on Amtrak Virginia. http://www.trytransitweek.com 11B03498-ACBB-42BC-AF90-A0DDE373BA30 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 14:08:38 -0400 Virginia Regional Transit (VRT) recently broke ground on the new Mountain Region Transit Facility in Augusta County which will serve as the transportation hub for bus services in the Shenandoah Valley. The facility will house offices, a rider call center and a maintenance shop for all VRT bus services. http://www.nbc29.com/Global/story.asp?S=12963909 DB25B557-A468-4763-A407-9A7F49D8568F Fri, 13 Aug 2010 14:08:10 -0400 A recent study by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) found that people who live in communities with public transportation drive less, exercise more, live longer, and are generally healthier than residents of communities that lack access to quality transit. These communities also benefit from reduced pollution as transit produces fewer harmful emissions than single occupant vehicle travel. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2010/Pages/100811_Public%20Health%20Benefits.aspx 72ACA8B8-A946-4230-ACE3-077C6DEB24DC Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:52:19 -0400 The National Transit Institute (NTI) will offer a free Webinar on models to help prioritize bus stops for accessibility improvements for riders with disabilities on August 25, 2010, from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. The Webinar will provide an objective approach to allocating resources for bus stop improvements to maximize benefits for riders with disabilities. http://www.ntionline.com 881E94FF-4C90-4DC4-83A8-402CFDF91193 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:51:55 -0400 For a limited time, Virginia college students can save 15 percent off the regular adult fare on Northeast Regional trains, making it easier than ever to let Amtrak do the driving. The Virginia college student discount is valid on Northeast Regional trains to or from Lynchburg, Ashland, Culpeper, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Newport News, Richmond and Williamsburg, for travel through December 31, 2010. Tickets must be purchased by October 31, 2010. http://www.amtrakvirginia.com DC37A8AB-7289-4FCE-9396-E6113390E9B0 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 14:51:27 -0400 The National Transit Institute (NTI) is sponsoring a Coordinated Mobility Course that will focus on creative approaches to providing a seamless transportation network for people with disabilities and low-income individuals. The course, which will be held September 7-8 in Cumberland, MD, is free for federal, state and local government employees who work in transportation or related areas. http://www.ntionline.com DE54B077-D897-446E-BDB4-1D75D32DC6CA Mon, 2 Aug 2010 15:01:34 -0400 The third annual statewide Try Transit Week will take place September 20-24, 2010. Virginians are asked to visit www.trytransitweek.com to pledge to try a form of transit – bus, rail, carpool, vanpool or telework. When you pledge you will be automatically entered into a contest for a chance to win a one year transit pass and two round-trip tickets on Amtrak Virginia. http://www.trytransitweek.com/ E0327B1C-8EEE-4FB4-9E63-E8F11A527D5F Mon, 2 Aug 2010 15:01:04 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) is working to spread the word about the benefits of public transportation and needs your help. APTA has created a Web site where transit users can upload videos, photos and testimonials of the benefits of public transportation. These testimonials will be used in APTA’s Tell Our Story initiative which aims to raise awareness of the importance of funding transit. http://tellingourstory.apta.com 9190C27E-51A1-47BD-8433-9C397B69BF4B Thu, 5 Aug 2010 15:00:39 -0400 To promote the launch of the new Amtrak Virginia service from Richmond to the Northeast Corridor, Amtrak held a ticket raffle at a Richmond Squirrels baseball game on July 19, and hosted a media tour on July 20, the first day of revenue service. Photos from each event are available on Amtrak Virginia’s Facebook page. http://www.facebook.com/AmtrakVirginia?ref=ts EE4A9322-EBAC-44BD-8878-1AA96FFB143F Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:44:32 -0400 DRPT has streamlined its quarterly Connection newsletter to offer a new HTML format that provides links to important information in the transportation community. This quarter’s issue provides highlights on new Amtrak Virginia service, the status of key projects, Try Transit Week 2010, recent transit awards, and more. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/html_newsletter/july2010/connections.html 97E25367-A5BB-4F00-88C9-B6D2CA94E74A Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:44:10 -0400 As part of his effort to reform Virginia’s government, Governor Bob McDonnell recently announced eight town hall meetings across the Commonwealth to give Virginians a time to speak directly with the governor about the issues facing the Commonwealth. The “Virginia Speaks: A Conversation about Jobs, Government Reform and Our Future” meetings will kick off August 4 in Roanoke, VA. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/news/viewRelease.cfm?id=290 5AEA77CE-834E-4C3E-A6E3-007E54C0731A Thu, 29 Jul 2010 15:43:47 -0400 The public comment period for the 2035 Virginia Surface Transportation Plan will close next Friday, July 30, 2010. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) developed the 2035 Virginia Surface Transportation Plan to provide long-term multimodal transportation suggestions for the commonwealth. http://www.vtrans.org 542E1F22-48A2-47F9-B8B8-49189C0F342E Fri, 23 Jul 2010 12:12:27 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) reports that an estimated $77.7 billion is needed to bring the country’s rail and bus transit systems into a state of good repair. FTA’s recently released National State of Good Repair Assessment Study concludes that an additional $144 billion annually will be necessary to maintain our systems. US Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood recently announced the availability of $775 million through the competitive State of Good Repair funding program. http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_11863.html. 05906561-831A-47CB-A471-E0C2B1C49858 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:11:37 -0400 Amtrak Virginia recently launched a new train with daily round-trip service between Richmond and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor, providing hourly morning northbound departures and more flexible southbound return trips to and from Amtrak’s Staples Mill Station. Virginia stops along the route include Staples Mill, Ashland, Fredericksburg, Quantico, Woodbridge and Alexandria stations, with direct service as far north as Boston. For a limited time, Amtrak is offering 15% off fares when travel is booked at least three days in advance. http://www.amtrakvirginia.com 2D7A991F-95D0-44B9-9AA4-09A01651208C Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:09:08 -0400 Join Amtrak Virginia at the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball game on Monday, July 19, and register to win two free tickets on the new Richmond train to any destination as far north as Boston. With the new service, which begins July 20, hourly morning departures are available from Richmond’s Staples Mill Station to the Northeast Corridor and more convenient afternoon return trips are available from Washington, D.C. Game tickets can be purchased at the gate or at www.squirrelsbaseball.com. http://www.amtrakvirginia.com 8954E1F4-AF7F-4569-990A-53A9AE96FFC5 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:55:16 -0400 To promote Virginia products and help grow jobs in Virginia, Governor Bob McDonnell recently introduced the “Choose the Commonwealth!” initiative which encourages Virginia businesses to use Virginia products for their food and beverage needs. The Governor is leading by example and has pledged to use Virginia wines and other locally grown and produced products during events at the Executive Mansion. http://www.bobmcdonnell.com 84CFD3EA-88C5-441B-8227-4D7EB354F95C Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:54:51 -0400 A public workshop has been scheduled on Thursday, July 29, to gain public feedback on ways to improve Route 5 from 7th Street in downtown Richmond to South Laburnum Avenue in eastern Henrico County. The workshop is the first of three public meetings that will be held over the next year to provide a time to learn more about the study and discuss ideas for Route 5 with the study team. The workshop will be held at Varina High School at 6:00 p.m. http://www.Route5Corridor.com FEA508E8-64DC-4600-AEBD-592FF1C3D7A4 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:54:16 -0400 On July 20, Amtrak Virginia expands daily round-trip service between Richmond, Washington D.C., and points north along the Northeast Corridor with the introduction of a new intercity passenger train. With this new train, hourly morning departures are available from Richmond’s Staples Mill Station to the Northeast Corridor and more convenient afternoon return trips are available from Washington, D.C. https://www.amtrakvirginia.com E012982D-504A-463C-982B-F9E0AF086A6C Thu, 8 Jul 2010 16:31:55 -0400 Pre-applications for TIGER II Discretionary Grants are due July 26, 2010, and final applications are due August 23, 2010. Final applications will be accepted only from those project sponsors that have submitted a pre-application. The program includes $600 million for projects that will have a significant impact on the nation, a metropolitan area or a region. http://www.dot.gov/recovery/ost/tigerii/index.html 716A65EF-80DA-48EB-8C53-CB29F6C328E8 Tue, 6 Jul 2010 16:31:27 -0400 The FCC recently announced that the January 1, 2011, deadline to stop manufacturing wideband equipment for UHF/VHF bands (150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz) has been changed to January 1, 2013. This change will make it easier for Private Land-Mobile Radio (LMR) users operating under 512MHz to migrate to narrowband channels by allowing them to maintain their wideband systems until the deadline. http://www.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2010/db0630/DOC-299410A1.pdf F2441847-D93B-47C0-A27A-8A472767911C Mon, 5 Jul 2010 16:30:53 -0400 Comments on potential state sources of intercity passenger rail operating funding are due Friday, July 2. Public comments will help the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) evaluate potential sources of funding and provide recommendations as requested in SJ63, adopted during the 2010 Virginia General Assembly session. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=498 B2F11981-DF4F-4580-8E22-B88607AECF78 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 16:47:51 -0400 The Public Transportation Safety Act of 2010 was reported out of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs and will now be considered by the full Senate. If signed into law, this bill will establish a federal public transportation safety program to improve the safety of rail fixed guideway and transit systems in the U.S. http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_11811.html EA808F21-1DCF-41A0-BB96-6C208E99E89C Tue, 29 Jun 2010 16:47:22 -0400 Public hearings to review and comment on the Tier II Draft Environmental Impact Statement which covers the portion of the Southeast High Speed Rail (SEHSR) corridor between Richmond, VA, and Raleigh, NC, will begin July 13, 2010. Eight hearings have been scheduled in Virginia and North Carolina. http://sehsr.org 45550FA5-4CBD-4091-ADC9-873B0484AE38 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 16:46:42 -0400 The Virginia Rail Advisory Board’s (RAB) July meeting, previously scheduled for July 8, 2010, has been rescheduled for October 14, 2010, at the Department of Motor Vehicles Richmond headquarters from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. http://drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=505 B249FCAA-7755-42CA-805A-ADC42CD17FF1 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 16:44:11 -0400 The 2010 American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Annual Conference will be held October 3-6, 2010, in San Antonio, Texas. The meeting provides a time for transit professionals to come together to learn, network, discuss influential industry topics, and find solutions. Registration is now open, and the keynote speaker - Malcolm Gladwell, author of The Tipping Point, Blink, and Outliers: The Story of Success – was recently announced. http://www.apta.com/mc/conferences/allother/2010annual/Pages/default.aspx 323CABCE-7BDA-44DC-A688-228FB227A6DD Wed, 23 Jun 2010 09:01:15 -0400 The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will hold a meeting of the Virginia-North Carolina High Speed Rail Compact on July 12, 2010, from noon to 2 p.m. in Raleigh, N.C. The meeting will provide an opportunity for the Compact to discuss strategies to advance multi-state high speed rail initiatives. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=504 36D07CDB-7657-44AA-ADDF-5D902CECD369 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:00:24 -0400 Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) recently celebrated the grand opening of their new maintenance and operations facility. The facility was designed and constructed to achieve the US Green Building Council’s LEED Certification and houses a variety of CAT’s functions and employees. The site includes an administration and operations building, maintenance shop, fuel island and vehicle wash building. http://www.charlottesville.org/Index.aspx?page=2796 20F9F2D7-97B7-43F9-8069-3345853EF30E Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:59:57 -0400 Today marks the fifth annual Dump the Pump Day, sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). Dump the Pump Day encourages Americans to leave their cars at home and use public transportation to save money on gas and help reduce our country’s dependency on oil. The latest APTA Transit Savings Report shows that a two car household that downsizes to one car can save more than $9,000 a year on average. What are you doing to Dump the Pump? http://www.apta.com/Pages/default.aspx 505801F7-E1E3-4A62-B8A2-0DCAE2A4AFB8 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:46:26 -0400 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) recently adopted the Fiscal Years 2011-2016 Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP), moving forward $7.8 billion in essential rail, transit, transportation demand management, bicycle, pedestrian and highway projects. The program includes $2.1 billion for rail and transit improvements, and focuses on funding deficits on projects under way, maximizing the use of federal funds, funding projects already under way and those with new phases starting in fiscal year 2011, and funding deficient bridges and pavements. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=501 4A082537-599B-4E32-8428-08338EF799C3 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:45:39 -0400 The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) have developed the 2035 Virginia Surface Transportation Plan, which provides long-term multimodal transportation suggestions for the commonwealth. The draft plan is available for public review and comment. The comment period will close on July 30, 2010. http://www.vtrans.org 92C8DC8D-4A4C-4F6B-AD48-F8B977091CE0 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:45:27 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently published the Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on Major Capital Investment Projects (New Starts and Small Starts) in the Federal Register. The FTA has scheduled outreach sessions to discuss the information included in the ANPRM on New Starts and Small Starts and to answer any questions. http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_11721.html 3B6DD03A-76B2-433A-9635-18ECDFA16897 Wed, 9 Jun 2010 09:28:36 -0400 A meeting has been scheduled to provide a time for the public to learn more about the Virginia Beach Transit Extension Study, which is evaluating a potential extension of The Tide light rail transit system in Norfolk to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The meeting will take place on June 30 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Westin Virginia Beach Town Center. http://www.gohrt.com/about/development/vbtes 195056E9-920D-4584-97A2-D38EE5F65267 Mon, 7 Jun 2010 09:26:54 -0400 North Carolina, Virginia and the Federal Railroad Administration recently published the Tier II Draft Environmental Impact Statement which covers the portion of the Southeast High Speed Rail (SEHSR) corridor between Richmond, VA, and Raleigh, NC. Public comments on the document will be accepted online, by mail, or during eight public hearings that have been scheduled in Virginia and North Carolina between July 13 and 29. Comments on the document will be accepted until August 30. http://sehsr.org E98EE79C-5401-42CF-9111-1B71736691B7 Thu, 3 Jun 2010 15:57:36 -0400 The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) recently announced an opportunity for public comment on an intercity passenger rail operations funding study. SJ63, sponsored by Virginia Senator Yvonne Miller, was adopted during the 2010 General Assembly Session, and it requires DRPT to evaluate potential dedicated sources of state funding for intercity passenger rail service. An online survey has been developed as a convenient way to provide comments, but comments may also be submitted by mail or email. Comments will be accepted until July 2. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=498 BAAC8275-CC15-4942-B2A4-B3168F3DD5A8 Thu, 3 Jun 2010 15:57:10 -0400 The Capital Beltway HOT Lanes Project partners recently broke ground on the future site of the HOT Lanes Operations Center. The Capital Beltway HOT Lanes Project will bring new technology to I-495 that will help reduce congestion along the corridor. The High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes will be free for buses, carpools (HOV-3), motorcycles and emergency vehicles, and drivers with fewer than three occupants can choose to pay to access the lanes. The HOT Lanes will open in December 2012. http://www.virginiahotlanes.com/ 12F1E359-449C-44C5-9D29-4DE2413F1DAF Wed, 26 May 2010 11:40:44 -0400 On Monday, the Senate unanimously passed the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010. The legislation requires all agencies to establish telework policies, designate a Telework Managing Officer and ensure that telework is part of the agency’s continuity of operations planning. A companion bill has not been introduced in the House. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/news.asp?utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Telework%20Exchange%20Weekly%20Blasts&org=2022&lvl=100&ite=762&lea=1295485&ctr=0&par=1 47ACC54C-955F-4562-B11C-BE6E6CC42E7C Tue, 25 May 2010 11:40:18 -0400 U.S. Senators Dodd, Durbin, Schumer, Menendez, Lautenberg and Brown recently introduced the ‘Public Transportation Preservation Act of 2010,’ which authorizes $2 billion in funds for emergency transit operating assistance. Reduced state and local funding resources have led to fare increases and service cuts for transit operators across the country. If the legislation is passed, transit operators could use the funds to reduce fare increases and restore services that were cut after January 2009, or to prevent future service cuts or fare increases through September 2011. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2010/Pages/100525_EmergencyOperatingFunding.aspx B4EC65C3-913C-4CE4-8B1A-2B7BA0287AD6 Tue, 25 May 2010 11:37:30 -0400 This week is National Bike to Work Week, and as the culminating event commuters are encouraged to leave their cars at home tomorrow and bike to work. Events are being organized around the state as part of the celebration to remind commuters about the various transportation choices available in Virginia. Biking safety and commuting tips are available on VDOT’s Web site. http://www.virginiadot.org/programs/bicycling_and_walking/bike_to_work_day_2010.asp CFFB1E51-CF32-4978-B753-CA33DA2293C1 Thu, 20 May 2010 15:19:06 -0400 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) has posted the Working Draft Fiscal Years 2011-2016 Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP) for public review in advance of four public hearings to solicit public comments about essential rail, transit, transportation demand management, bicycle, pedestrian and highway projects. Public hearings will be held in Richmond, Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads and Salem prior to the CTB’s June 16 meeting, during which the Board will vote on the proposed program. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=494 9E0B63D3-A96F-4DC2-A7FA-CE42A66E6255 Wed, 19 May 2010 15:16:37 -0400 The new Amtrak Virginia train on the Lynchburg route has exceeded its annual performance targets in the first six months of operation. March 2010 data indicates that the train now exceeds the annual ridership goal of 51,000 with 55,025 passengers, and exceeds the annual revenue goal of $2,580,000 by generating $2,839,448 in revenue. The route provides a daily one-seat ride as far north as Boston from Lynchburg in the I-81/Route 29 corridor. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=497 10F23FED-EB15-4FD5-A115-890E11C3CF18 Wed, 19 May 2010 15:15:53 -0400 On May 19, Telework!VA and Telework Exchange will host Unlock Gridlock 2010, a free educational and networking event focused on promoting alternative commuting options to Virginia organizations. At the event, which will be held at the Gannett/USA Today Corporate Headquarters in McLean, Virginia, industry experts will discuss how to implement and expand organizational telework programs to boost Virginia businesses’ productivity and bottom-line performance. The event will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. http://www.teleworkexchange.com/unlockgridlock E78B137E-6197-414D-80FF-CCCA3F13C8FB Fri, 14 May 2010 16:17:11 -0400 On June 9 and 10 in Charlottesville, Virginia, DRPT will host a National Transit Institute course that will present a structured approach for planning, implementing, and evaluating rural transit projects to help ensure that agency needs and expectations are met. The course will benefit transit professionals, state DOT staff, and regional planners involved in planning and implementing technology-based applications for rural transit operations. http://www.ntionline.com/CourseInfo.asp?CourseNumber=TRI10 3AF8F8B9-A3F8-45F0-81F1-0493873D997A Tue, 11 May 2010 16:16:41 -0400 The National Transit Institute will sponsor a course on June 29 and 30 in Baltimore, Maryland, that will provide an overview of the risk review process for transit capital projects as outlined by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Oversight Guidance documents. Participants in the course should have general knowledge of transit systems and common design issues, a basic understanding of the FTA New Starts development process, and experience with standard project metrics. While the course is designed for capital projects larger than $300 million, the content of this course can be applied to small and medium projects. http://www.ntionline.com/CourseInfo.asp?CourseNumber=TPM-12 237437DD-B347-44F3-BD1F-9C3F17DA2A94 Mon, 10 May 2010 16:16:09 -0400 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) will soon hold public hearings to gain feedback on the Working Draft of the Fiscal Year 2011-2016 Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP). The draft SYIP, which will be presented to the CTB at their May 19 meeting, will include funding recommendations for rail, transit, commuter service and highway projects for the next six years. Hearings will be held in Richmond, Fairfax, Chesapeake, and Dublin, VA. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=491 D454076A-8C18-4BFC-B160-7BF58D80F2E3 Thu, 6 May 2010 16:46:50 -0400 The Washington Metrorail system’s state safety oversight body, the Tri-State Oversight Committee (TOC), recently submitted their response to the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) March 4, 2010, audit of TOC and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). The response was the latest in a series of actions taken by Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia to cooperatively improve safety oversight of the Metrorail system through a comprehensive course of action and dialogue with Congress through the Governors of Maryland and Virginia and Mayor of the District of Columbia. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=489 1844BC89-EC06-43EB-93B7-3A202C11C5DE Wed, 5 May 2010 16:46:24 -0400 With National Train Day set for May 8, 2010, there is no better time to celebrate Virginia’s newest train travel option – the Lynchburg Northeast Regional service on Amtrak. This new line travels to the heart of Central Virginia, delivering visitors to Culpeper, Charlottesville and, for the first time, Lynchburg. http://www.virginia.org/pressroom/release.asp?id=213 CEDA5DEE-26A7-4B8E-8828-B04D5FFED971 Mon, 3 May 2010 16:46:00 -0400 The Easter Seals Project ACTION, in Partnership with the National Center on Senior Transportation and the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center, is hosting a free online conference May 18-20 to provide insight on ways to build livable communities through increased pedestrian access. Registration is open until May 11. http://projectaction.easterseals.com/site/Calendar?view=Detail&id=32081 92268C45-0706-4823-91DD-2B1ACA81D37F Mon, 3 May 2010 16:45:29 -0400 The U.S. Department of Transportation has recently announced the availability of $600 million in National Infrastructure Investment (“TIGER II”) competitive grants for capital assistance to states, local governments and transit agencies for TIFIA financing, capital grants or transportation planning activities. Pre-applications for TIGER II grants are due July 16, 2010, with final applications due August 23, 2010. http://www.dot.gov/recovery/ost/tigerii/ 98DB3E0A-D229-426E-BBF6-D45F3E9A76E2 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 15:33:29 -0400 The April issue of Connection, DRPT’s quarterly newsletter, is available online. In this issue, you will learn about progress on key projects such as the Broad Street Rapid Transit Study and the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Extension, as well as new projects such as Amtrak Virginia’s partnership with the Virginia Tourism Corporation and the upcoming Unlock Gridlock event. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/files/DRPTnews_April2010_final.pdf 4E5FDE48-9A26-4330-B183-FBED083E88FA Mon, 26 Apr 2010 15:32:47 -0400 With an estimated 31 percent of its employees spending over two hours a day commuting to work, Washington Gas is collaborating with Telework!VA, a program developed by DRPT, to implement teleworking as a new business strategy. The company, which employs 1,300 people, aims to have 75 employees teleworking four times per month, removing more than 3,000 cars from highways each year. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=487 0819A847-C8B7-4EA6-9809-F0FB251D4B8E Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:32:26 -0400 The final Feasibility Plan for Maximum Truck to Rail Diversion in Virginia’s I-81 Corridor study has been published on DRPT’s Web site. The study identifies the maximum feasible truck to rail diversion for the corridor and outlines strategies to achieve the maximum level of diversion. The Commonwealth is moving forward with the strategies in the study based on available funding. More than $126.7 million will be invested in the corridor through previous, current and proposed investments, making the I-81 corridor one of the most highly funded in the Commonwealth. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/activities/Rail_ref_materials.aspx 451F9143-CC29-4609-8C51-935C2A0F2DAA Mon, 19 Apr 2010 14:51:23 -0400 Thursday, April 22, is Earth Day and many organizations will be encouraging people to try transit as a way to save energy and reduce harmful emissions. According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), just one person switching to transit can reduce carbon emissions by more than 4,800 pounds per year. APTA has developed a tool kit for promoting transit use on Earth Day. http://www.apta.com/Pages/100317_EarthDay.aspx 3451CAB2-A6A3-4092-A44B-1183E166EF24 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 14:50:47 -0400 The latest edition of the state’s long-range multimodal transportation plan is now available online. The plan reviews progress made since the VTrans2025 report and incorporates long-range statewide transportation goals. http://www.vtrans.org/multimodal_transportation_plan_vtrans2035.asp B4D2FAA2-8C40-42B4-A90C-C04E9D8D5121 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 14:50:23 -0400 Amtrak Virginia has partnered with the Virginia Tourism Corporation and localities along Virginia’s new Lynchburg Northeast Regional service to offer vacation packages for Amtrak passengers. The packages provide vacations to two of the route’s most popular destinations, Charlottesville and Lynchburg, and include lodging and access to local activities, with some packages offering additional dining and transportation perks. http://www.amtrakvirginia.com/HotDeals.aspx 28D73C59-C9DD-43E6-AF78-4802F55CDBD3 Mon, 5 Apr 2010 09:45:16 -0400 On April 15, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., the National Transit Institute (NTI) will conduct a webinar based on the Transit Cooperative Research Program Report, Improving Pedestrian and Motorist Safety Along Light Rail Alignments. Topics for discussion include existing safety devices, safety treatments, and practices; guidelines for the safety assessments; and recommendations to facilitate the compilation of accident data. The webinar is free for federal, state and local government employees who work in transportation or related areas. http://www.ntionline.com/CourseInfo.asp?CourseNumber=TRI18-20 DA5C59F8-4352-47F6-8D48-EF63C17AC93B Sun, 4 Apr 2010 09:44:35 -0400 The National Transit Institute and the Federal Transit Administration have partnered to offer a webinar series that discusses the National Transit Database (NTD) requirements for rural reporting. The series is comprised of two webinars, one for state departments of transportation and one for transit agency personnel. Various dates and times are available for each webinar. The webinar is free to transit agency employees and government employees involved with public transportation. http://www.NTIONLINE.com F7C24A42-857E-4EE6-8D98-2F0960014115 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:53:52 -0400 The Intelligent Transportation Society of Virginia will host its 16th Annual Conference and Exhibition from April 28 – 29 in Charlottesville, Va. Register for the conference at www.itsva.org. After the conference, at 1:30 p.m. on April 29, DRPT will offer a course on how to prepare for the federally mandated migration to narrowbanding for all radio users operating below 512 MHz. The course will help transit and rail operators plan for the transition by assessing current equipment and channel plans and making the necessary upgrades. Contact DRPT’s Mike Harris for information at michael.harris@drpt.virginia.gov. http://www.itsva.org/event_details.aspx?id=4.%0D%0A%0D%0Ahttp://www.itsva.org/event_details.aspx?id=4.%0D%0A%0D%0Ahttp://www.itsva.org/event_details.aspx?id=4.%0D%0A%0D%0Ahttp://www.itsva.org/event_details.aspx?id=4.%0D%0A%0D%0Ahttp://www.itsva.org/event_details.aspx?id=4. DDC1463D-0CC0-44AD-BF05-19E299E9CBAB Mon, 29 Mar 2010 16:52:49 -0400 DRPT recently issued the Virginia Transit Performance Report for fiscal years 2004 to 2008. The report provides a comprehensive look at transit system performance across the Commonwealth and a comparative analysis of Virginia transit performance versus national statistics. The report finds that Virginia outperforms the national average on several key performance indicators. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/activities/Transit_ref_materials.aspx FE1B2C3D-655A-4D78-BC31-C6AD09FD3159 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:30:41 -0400 Virginia’s Rail Advisory Board will meet on April 1 at the Department of Motor Vehicles headquarters in Richmond to discuss Rail Enhancement Fund recommendations for the FY11-FY16 Six-Year Improvement Program. The Board’s recommendations will be incorporated into DRPT’s program of projects which will be presented to the Commonwealth Transportation Board in May. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=485 83338CCC-CA14-48F6-B157-DD945AD4BAD0 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:30:16 -0400 The Virginia Transit Association (VTA) will continue their Webinar series on April 14 with “Embracing a Shared Vision with our TDM Partners.” The Webinar focuses on how transit operators can advance mobility management through partnerships with transportation demand management (TDM) organizations. The Webinar is free and will take place from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/385637355 8F482CA8-1F28-4A27-AF02-4574D2734EC0 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 14:29:55 -0400 Filling out your census form does more than provide statistics. It provides valuable information that is linked to the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and to the way in which more than $400 billion in federal funding is spent each year on infrastructure and services, including transportation. http://2010.census.gov/2010census/ 1F37E234-AEEA-4FF7-8E2C-51EA8131A6DA Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:22:02 -0400 The National Transit Institute (NTI) is offering an introductory course for transit professionals whose current and/or future responsibilities include planning, managing, and executing all phases of a transit project’s lifecycle. Courses will be offered April 14-15 in Idaho, April 19-20 in Ohio, April 20-21 in Indiana, May 5-6 in Minnesota, and June 14-15 in Missouri. The webinar is free for federal, state and local government employees who work in transportation; however, priority will be given to ARRA grantees. http://www.ntionline.com/CourseInfo.asp?CourseNumber=TRI23-50 AFD4A631-64E3-4313-ABCC-8DCC6E1D8676 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:21:33 -0400 Virginia Regional Transit (VRT) recently held their 2nd annual Bootcamp training, an eight hour, intensive training day focusing on safety in public transportation. Topics covered in the bootcamp included defensive driving, wheelchair lift training, radio communication and a comprehensive look at incidents and how they affect operations, customer satisfaction and community support. http://www.vatransit.org AB4FFAF0-E7CB-4ADD-AA1C-B206C4F62EBD Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:20:59 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) “Public Transportation Takes Us There” campaign recently launched an initiative to educate decision makers on the return on investment in public transportation. Specifically, the campaign asserts that the more than $15 billion in “ready to go” public transportation projects could create 450,000 jobs. http://www.publictransportation.org/takesusthere/resources.html BAE7E596-FD78-470F-8461-D94A998FB4CD Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:02:34 -0500 The National Transit Institute (NTI) will offer a webinar on March 23 to discuss current Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) research, an overview of development in North America, policies and practices, and examples of BRT transit-oriented development. The webinar is free for federal, state and local government employees who work in transportation. http://www.ntionline.com/CourseInfo.asp?CourseNumber=TRI19-15 55A3C613-FFB2-4B63-8EC2-9528CA2C72F3 Mon, 8 Mar 2010 15:02:08 -0500 The President recently signed a 30-day extension of surface transportation authorization, which extends transportation funding through March 28. This extension allows the federal government to resume grant processing, and Congress to focus on an extension of transportation funding through December 31. http://www.apta.com/gap/legupdatealert/2010/Pages/2010March03.aspx 27762CB6-1E05-4AA2-83D6-310733310A87 Fri, 5 Mar 2010 15:01:44 -0500 The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) will hold its 35th annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., March 14 – 16. Topics of discussion include the latest in the Washington political scene, the insider perspective on the transit industry and what’s ahead for transit. The conference also reserves a time for attendees to make appointments with their Congressional representatives. http://www.apta.com/mc/conferences/90days/2010legconf/Pages/default.aspx 735B0831-C236-4834-BB95-3FB0F4BBF29C Mon, 1 Mar 2010 14:54:57 -0500 With college and university spring breaks just around the corner, now is a great time to book a trip on Amtrak Virginia’s Northeast Regional service to Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York, or Boston, and let someone else do the driving. http://www.amtrakvirginia.com/News.aspx B8608B1A-38EF-4200-8727-BC943048B70B Wed, 3 Mar 2010 14:54:24 -0500 Registration for the Virginia Transit Association (VTA) 2010 Annual Conference, which will be held June 10 and 11 in Richmond, Va., is now open. The agenda for the conference is still being set; however, the conference offers a time for industry professionals to come together to see what’s new in transit and discuss hot topics in transportation. http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=3b0414d8-d945-45c2-b02f-13b59bf6a525 C1BA4909-8B4B-4DE5-B3CD-06A19C681A12 Thu, 4 Mar 2010 14:54:01 -0500 The Community Transportation Association of Virginia will host the 2010 Paratransit Driving Roadeo on April 10 in Chesterfield, Va. The roadeo gives paratransit drivers the opportunity to test their driving skills and interact with other industry professionals. Winners will have the chance to represent Virginia at the 2010 National Roadeo in California in May. http://ctav.org/pages/id_96/n_driving_roadeo/ 2E95D78F-3755-49F3-9C99-E62F067A58AF Mon, 22 Feb 2010 11:22:59 -0500 To make the site more intuitive and user friendly, DRPT recently launched a new navigational structure for their Web site, www.drpt.virginia.gov. The new structure organizes information by the three main areas of DRPT activity – rail, transit and commuter services. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov AFA4FA2A-99D2-452F-AEE7-A759132AE077 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 11:22:29 -0500 DRPT recently announced that the National Capital Region was awarded more than $58 million in Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) funds for regional rapid transit improvements, $30.4 million of which will be spent in Virginia. Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. worked in partnership to submit the application, which included more than $204 million in projects. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=483 54935720-0CF8-455C-8E51-1B1531702557 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 11:22:06 -0500 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) recently selected Alternative 1 as the preferred alternative for the Richmond/Hampton Roads Passenger Rail Project. The decision was based on the results of a Tier I Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in addition to the public comments received. Next steps include submitting a Final EIS for federal review and applying for federal funding to advance the project. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=481 2FA61488-7E0C-4C0B-8677-5EBDE2DF504F Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:40:12 -0500 Don’t forget that the Broad St. Rapid Transit Study team will hold meetings next week to introduce the public to the study, explain the study process and introduce conceptual alternatives to be evaluated. Meetings will take place February 24 and 25 in Richmond and Henrico County. http://study.ridegrtc.com 69CF6B05-8C26-4794-B049-B2E344D4FC71 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:39:45 -0500 Virginia’s Rail Advisory Board will meet on February 25 in Richmond to discuss Rail Enhancement Fund applications received, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds, the Richmond/Hampton Roads Passenger Rail Project and lessons learned from recent winter storms. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/projects/ref.aspx 1009CB29-8609-4876-84B6-5B1C25D4A0EB Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:38:58 -0500 The Broad St. Rapid Transit Study team is evaluating future transit improvements along a seven-mile corridor from Willow Lawn in Henrico County through downtown Richmond to Rockett’s Landing. Public meetings to introduce the public to the study, explain the study process and introduce conceptual alternatives will take place February 24 and 25 in Richmond and Henrico County. http://study.ridegrtc.com 672BF433-B112-4FD8-8B3E-276A61FBFA9F Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:13:49 -0500 The February issue of Connection, DRPT’s quarterly newsletter, is available online. This quarter’s issue provides highlights on key projects such as the Richmond/Hampton Roads Passenger Rail Project and the Broad St. Rapid Transit Study, as well as updates on local and regional transit studies and transportation funding. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/files/DRPT_January2010_final.pdf 36ECC5F5-4332-437C-B0D5-FC3D26DA3E75 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:13:31 -0500 Virginia was recently awarded $75 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding to support rail improvements in the Richmond-Washington, D.C., corridor. The funds will be used to construct 11.4 miles of third track in Prince William County and Stafford, which will alleviate a major rail traffic bottleneck and create 281 jobs. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=480 6452F2BE-C77B-4CA3-A04B-A39E96B447E4 Mon, 1 Feb 2010 16:12:10 -0500 On January 18, the Burke Centre station, a stop along Amtrak’s Northeast Regional service from Lynchburg to the Northeast Corridor, became an Amtrak stop. Previously the station only provided connecting service for Virginia Railway Express passengers. Passengers may now book travel to and from Burke Centre on Amtrak.com. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=479 5CBDC200-2EE2-4971-8C5B-94BDAFCC57DB Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:33:43 -0500 Public hearings for the Richmond/Hampton Roads Passenger Rail Project will be held next week to give the public an opportunity to review and comment on the Tier I Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Richmond/Hampton Roads Passenger Rail Project. Hearings will be held January 26, 27 and 28 in Richmond, Newport News and Norfolk. Comments may be provided at any time during the public comment period, which ends February 11, 2010. http://www.rich2hrrail.info/pages/pi_comment.html F8999775-6745-4C6D-ABCB-E7339060422D Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:33:05 -0500 Governor-elect Bob McDonnell recently named Thelma Drake as Director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT). Mrs. Drake has served on transportation committees in both the United States House of Representatives and the Virginia House of Delegates. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=478 39F97E87-4BC0-435A-B152-F3D5991EA230 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:07:10 -0500 The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has launched a new Web site that brings together various resources to provide information on the importance of high speed rail and to help advance the vision of high- speed rail in the United States. http://www.highspeedrailonline.com BABBB983-A7CA-443F-BC42-B2624F5D7627 Tue, 12 Jan 2010 16:06:43 -0500 The draft report of Virginia’s Interstate 81 Freight Rail Study was recently issued for public comment by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). The study outlines a strategic approach to maximizing the capacity of freight rail in the corridor and diverting more trucks from highways. The public comment period for the study will remain open until February 10, 2010. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=469 586FFD1B-C8BE-44BA-9DD6-EB90655C3476 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:06:11 -0500 Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph Szabo and FRA Deputy Administrator Karen Rae will be the keynote speakers at the regional high speed rail seminars hosted by the American Public Transportation Association and the International Union of Railways in February. The seminars will provide leaders with information regarding the implementation of high speed rail in the U.S. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/Pages/100106.aspx 2898C984-D4D1-4E2D-896C-BF054F4BBD0F Thu, 7 Jan 2010 15:28:51 -0500 For a limited time, the National Geographic Museum is hosting an exhibit highlighting treasures from China’s first emperor’s tomb, and Amtrak’s Northeast Regional service can take you there. If you book now through March 17, you can take advantage of a 25 percent discount on the lowest published coach fare. To book your trip, visit Amtrak Virginia’s Web site. http://www.amtrakvirginia.com 50841BD6-AD83-4BCE-BCB2-5116DBE22793 Wed, 6 Jan 2010 15:28:23 -0500 The Virginia General Assembly will convene its 2010 regular session on January 13, 2010. The session is scheduled to conclude on March 13, 2010, and the public can track bills introduced at the Virginia General Assembly Legislative Information System Web site. http://leg1.state.va.us/lis.htm 71DAF3C4-B63E-40F5-ADF0-B02D4737D32A Mon, 4 Jan 2010 15:27:38 -0500 The rescheduled Rail Advisory Board meeting, which will take place February 25, will be held at the Department of Motor Vehicles Headquarters located at 2300 West Broad St. Richmond, VA. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/projects/ref-meeting-schedule.aspx FEA4A999-ED5D-4C46-A359-44106589EBE6 Mon, 4 Jan 2010 15:27:01 -0500 Public hearings will be held in January to give the public an opportunity to review and comment on the Tier I Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Richmond/Hampton Roads Passenger Rail Project. Hearings will be held in Richmond, Newport News and Norfolk and will include an open house and formal presentation. Comments may be provided at any time during the public comment period, which end February 11, 2010. http://www.rich2hrrail.info/pages/pi_comment.html C0E81BBD-237F-472A-8A78-534C0FC56466 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:45:32 -0500 The January 2010 Rail Advisory Board meeting has been moved to February 25, 2010. More information on location and specific agenda items will be available soon. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/events/default.aspx B079FB09-1D46-4B81-8E2E-D39797ACE206 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:45:00 -0500 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) recently approved a revised Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP) for fiscal years 2010 – 2015 that addresses a $893.5 million reduction in transportation revenues. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=465 20D865E2-743E-424F-BB9B-E8C01DE85138 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:25:26 -0500 For its first month in service, the new Amtrak Virginia train, which offers service from Lynchburg to the Northeast Corridor, exceeded ridership expectations. Overall, Amtrak ridership in Virginia in October 2009 is up nine percent, compared to October 2008. Monthly reports are available on the Amtrak Virginia Web site. http://amtrakvirginia.com/News.aspx 7BB1F6B8-94A8-4FDD-A52A-A778890C5206 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:25:00 -0500 The Alexandria Transit Company recently opened its new DASH maintenance, operations and administration facility named for the first chairman of the ATC Board of Directors, William B. Hurd. The new facility will help DASH expand its services to meet the growing demand for transit in Alexandria. http://www.dashbus.com/news/newsDisplay.aspx?id=27738 B76EC5CA-5108-4CDD-B610-DD68B0612BFC Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:24:40 -0500 U.S Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood recently presented to Congress the Public Transportation Safety Program Act of 2009, a transit safety bill that would establish safety standards across all rail transit systems. The bill would allow the Secretary to establish uniform safety standards and states to receive federal funding to staff and train oversight personnel, as well as require that state oversight agencies be financially independent from the systems they oversee. http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_10891.html D93ACE8E-ED61-44A3-A80F-F28885BD9195 Wed, 9 Dec 2009 09:40:11 -0500 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) have published the Richmond/Hampton Roads Passenger Rail Project Tier I Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for review and comment. Public hearings to gather feedback on the document will take place in January 2010. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/projects/hamptonpassenger.aspx A62257F6-9E1C-4AD4-AB06-CC3586ECF5BA Fri, 4 Dec 2009 09:39:31 -0500 The Obama administration recently announced the availability of $230 million to support urban circulator projects, such as street cars, buses and bus facilities. The funds are part of the Livability Initiative, a joint venture of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aimed at increasing transportation choices and improving the quality of life for Americans. http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_10868.html 099CF7FC-AA83-4301-AD55-61C0BFCE06E0 Thu, 3 Dec 2009 09:38:59 -0500 As part of its webinar series, the Virginia Transit Association is offering a free webinar on measuring the public and economic impact of investment in transit on December 15 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Space is limited and registration is required. http://www.vatransit.com 971B9E83-8518-4D82-B2BD-1085214C3915 Wed, 2 Dec 2009 09:43:31 -0500 The Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) will move into its new corporate headquarters on Richmond’s Southside this week. The facility will officially open on December 7, but GRTC will hold a preview for the media and invited guests on December 4. The facility will house transportation, administration, bus maintenance, service and inspection lanes, and bus storage. http://www.ridegrtc.com/documents/2009_11_30%20GRTC%20HQ%20Tour.pdf EA5194C0-0C6F-42B4-B6AC-A647B3641DCF Tue, 1 Dec 2009 09:43:02 -0500 Amtrak Virginia recently announced that the fare promotion on the Northeast Regional service, including the new Lynchburg route to and from the Northeast Corridor, will be extended. Passengers who book now through March 17 for travel through March 31, 2010, may take advantage of a fare promotion which offers up to 25 percent off the lowest published coach fare on Northeast Regional service between Lynchburg, Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston. http://amtrakvirginia.com/ F05EBDC4-3960-4617-A936-5D94F3A2CEBF Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:40:54 -0500 As part of Dump the Pump Day 2009, the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) asked participants to create a video that demonstrated why they dumped the pump. Congratulations to Bob Richardson of Portland, Oregon, who won first place in the video contest. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2009/Pages/091118_video_contest.aspx 10334D16-34D1-4A58-AA4E-D23EF2CF1217 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:40:27 -0500 Amtrak recently published a Strategic Guidance document which outlines how Amtrak will execute the policies and programs outlined in the 2008 Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act. The document provides a mission, goals, progress criteria and strategies to follow through 2013. http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?c=Page&pagename=am%2FLayout&cid=1241245669222 3CD8621F-B776-4F84-A34C-B5B2E7716816 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:54:51 -0500 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) recently approved DRPT’s recommendations for the final round of rural and small urban transit stimulus funds for capital projects. DRPT recommended $4.9 million for rural transit and $5.2 million for small urban transit. The funds will support 97 projects across the Commonwealth to purchase new or replacement equipment and construct new facilities. A complete list of projects is available on DRPT’s Web site. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/special/files/ARRA%20Rural%20and%20Small%20Urban%20Transit%20Final%20Allocation.pdf 1A4515AE-0AB4-4F63-9AE2-6B95D73DE7CD Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:54:27 -0500 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) continues to discuss ways to address an anticipated $851.5 million reduction in transportation revenues. DRPT and VDOT recently presented a draft revised Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP) for fiscal years 2010-2015 for CTB consideration. A public hearing to gain feedback on the draft revised program is scheduled for December 1. The CTB is scheduled to act on the program at their December meeting. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=457 1CB5F06D-63C4-49F6-A02D-D6BDF902813E Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:53:41 -0500 This week, the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC) began operating the new Tysons Express commuter bus service with direct service from Woodbridge to Tysons Corner. Tysons Express is just one of a handful of new transportation choices that will be introduced to the region to help manage congestion during construction of the Virginia Megaprojects. The new service will be half-price for the next six months. http://www.prtctransit.org/myprtc/service-updates/service_updates.php?docid=137 B6EE9D6D-7E34-491C-82F8-517EB540BFBE Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:29:17 -0500 The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee recently reported out the “Clean Energy and American Jobs Act,” which dedicates approximately 2.5 percent of emission allowances to transportation and transit investment, or between $1.5 billion and $3 billion annually. The Senate Finance Committee could act on the bill or similar legislation later this year. http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/aptapt/issues/2009-11-09/index.html AB871B0B-C885-47F3-A366-C6CE4A59317C Mon, 9 Nov 2009 15:28:48 -0500 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) will hold a public hearing on December 1 in Richmond to receive public feedback on projects for inclusion in the Working Draft of the Revised Fiscal Year 2010-2015 Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP) to be approved by the CTB in December 2009. The Commonwealth must adjust the current program to account for reduced revenue forecasts. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=453 3325C18C-2EFC-481B-83FB-261A380ED864 Fri, 6 Nov 2009 15:28:16 -0500 U.S. Secretary of Transportation LaHood recently convened the first meeting of a newly created U.S. Department of Transportation Safety Council, formed to enhance focus on safety throughout the 10 agencies that make up the Department of Transportation. Representatives from each agency sit on the council to share data and develop best practices and strategies to improve the impact of safety programs. http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2009/dot17209.htm D8D86649-4C4C-49E7-83C2-61C6E86F1F7C Thu, 5 Nov 2009 16:50:31 -0500 The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and the International Union of Railways will host three regional seminars to provide leaders with information regarding the implementation of high speed rail in the U.S. The seminars will take place in February in Washington, D.C., Chicago and Los Angeles. http://www.apta.com/mc/conferences/allother/Pages/HighSpeedRailMainPage.aspx 304435BB-91FD-485F-B5F0-BEBE7D29E8E1 Thu, 5 Nov 2009 16:50:04 -0500 DRPT recently published the FY2008-FY2009 Biennial Report which provides highlights of DRPT’s accomplishments over the past two fiscal years. The report also gives an outlook for key areas for growth for the next fiscal year. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/studies/files/VDRT_Annual09_final.pdf E9A0B7E1-ECE6-41D5-895E-8BE04C777A34 Thu, 5 Nov 2009 16:49:35 -0500 The October 2009 issue of Connection, DRPT’s quarterly newsletter, is available online. This quarter’s issue provides highlights on key projects such as new Amtrak service, the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project and The Tide, as well as updates on transit and rail stimulus funding and the status of regional studies. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/files/DRPT_October09_final.pdf 58834F2C-CD4A-4201-A72C-D0183940AF89 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:47:42 -0400 The Commonwealth’s Office of Intermodal Planning and Investment is offering an Urban Development Area Planning Grant to provide consultant services to local governments to analyze future growth patterns, plan for and designate urban development areas in comprehensive plans, and revise applicable local land use ordinances to incorporate the principles of new urbanism and traditional neighborhood design. Applications will be accepted until Nov. 16, 2009. http://www.virginiadot.org/projects/urban_development_area_planning_grants.asp 34C1A0BB-414B-447C-9C48-4CD604A36169 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:47:14 -0400 Blacksburg Transit is expanding routes to include additional services to and around Christiansburg. Free fares will be available until the end of the year. The new service is scheduled to begin November 23. http://www.roanoke.com/news/nrv/wb/223356 BEC9B71D-0BD2-41D3-BF98-7AD4C59208D7 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:45:39 -0400 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently published the Preliminary National Rail Plan, which lays the groundwork for developing policies to improve the US rail transportation system. The plan includes goals such as improving safety, fostering livable communities, increasing the economic competitiveness of the US and promoting sustainable transportation. The plan also sets the approach for developing the long-range National Rail Plan. http://www.fra.dot.gov/Downloads/RailPlanPrelim10-15.pdf A68E9F0A-E8E2-4EC9-BBDC-3795041DD7F4 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:49:34 -0400 The Virginia Transit Association (VTA) recently hosted a Webinar on how to achieve and maintain transit sustainability. In case you missed it, the Webinar video and Power Point presentation is available on VTA’s Web site. http://www.vatransit.com 81FC18E3-1831-4571-90FF-B8DE10184787 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:49:02 -0400 Rural and small urban bus systems have a new tool for developing and strengthening their safety and security programs with the introduction of the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Bus Safety Web site. The site offers various online resources and tools, including FTA's Roadmap for Excellence, which identifies principles for an effective safety, security and emergency preparedness program. http://bussafety.fta.dot.gov/splash.php 0CA0160F-1B8F-411F-BF8F-04477ADF142B Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:48:38 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration recently announced the recipients of the Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas and Energy Reduction (TIGGER) grants, and Arlington Transit was awarded $1.5 million for the purchase of hybrid buses. The $100 million grant program is funded through stimulus funds and is available for capital investments to help reduce transit systems’ energy consumption or greenhouse gas emissions. http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-24479.pdf 81CE4D34-C42A-432E-A243-A0EAF54312E6 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:54:23 -0400 Give yourself a break and try the new Amtrak Virginia service today. Use your free time to work, catch up with friends and family, or just relax along the way. And if you’re going further north, you can be in New York City before 3:30 pm without having to change trains on our direct Northeast Corridor service. See amtrakvirginia.com for more information on Amtrak service in Virginia. http://amtrakvirginia.com 5ECACC40-6A5E-4745-904D-30E67541AAD2 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:53:50 -0400 At their annual meeting the American Public Transportation Association honored several transit systems for outstanding marketing and communications efforts with the AdWheel Awards. The Greater Richmond Transit Company was recognized for TransitTalk.com, the TransitTalk.com viral video, and their 2008 Annual Report, and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority was recognized for their 2008 Annual Report. http://passengertransport.apta.com/aptapt/issues/2009-10-12/16.html 81CC8D1C-2D52-4EC5-AB7D-AFA5B10D2DCC Fri, 9 Oct 2009 15:53:31 -0400 The first vehicles for The Tide light rail system in Norfolk were delivered today. The 7.4 mile system will connect popular destinations in Norfolk and provide increased transportation choices in the area. The Tide is the first light rail transit system in Virginia, and is scheduled to begin operations in 2010. http://www.ridethetide.com 5766AA70-FD88-4F81-B740-9FE152A4E673 Tue, 6 Oct 2009 14:38:25 -0400 Virginia recently submitted a Track 2 (corridor development) application for $1.8 billion in rail stimulus funding to advance high speed rail along the I-95 corridor. The application included 19 projects spanning 112 miles that would increase capacity and improve rail infrastructure to support 90-mph passenger rail service. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=447 6BDAE6CF-4400-40C7-BB0C-6C051F8B60E9 Fri, 2 Oct 2009 14:37:52 -0400 On September 30, Governor Tim Kaine, along with Amtrak President and CEO Joseph Boardman and Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman, ushered in new Amtrak service from Lynchburg to the Northeast Corridor with an inaugural Whistle Stop Tour. The tour stopped at each station along the route and was met with great enthusiasm from local communities. http://www.amtrakvirginia.com/ 30D1D408-B78C-4E64-9407-D1B033E4CB5E Thu, 1 Oct 2009 14:34:43 -0400 Public meetings will be held this week for the I-66 Transit/TDM Study, which is evaluating short- and medium-term improvements for the I-66 corridor inside and outside the beltway. The meetings will provide a time for the public to review and comment on the study’s preliminary findings and recommendations. Recommendations include infrastructure improvements, such as new park-and-ride lots, and service improvements, such as increased frequency of service and express bus service. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/activities/I66study.aspx A514CE2A-B554-4B40-80F0-E48CC58ED60C Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:50:15 -0400 Virginia is for Lovers, Virginia’s tourism slogan, was recently inducted into the National Advertising Walk of Fame at a celebration in New York. Virginia is for Lovers is America’s longest-running state tourism slogan and the induction coincides with the slogan’s 40th anniversary. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=1087 FB057A12-194D-4A67-A769-40AE22041049 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:49:44 -0400 A new Web site was recently launched that provides information on all Amtrak service in Virginia, including new service beginning this fall that will expand transportation choices for travelers from Lynchburg to destinations in the Northeast Corridor such as Philadelphia, New York and Boston. The new Lynchburg service starts on October 1, 2009, and tickets are now available for the train at up to 25 percent off. http://amtrakvirginia.com B006D248-3F51-469C-BB46-2E02A8ACEA7F Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:48:53 -0400 The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) is working with transit operators across the Commonwealth on the second annual statewide Try Transit Week. The event is designed to encourage Virginians to stop driving alone and try a form of transit such as bus, rail, carpools, vanpools or telework. Try Transit Week takes place from September 21 – 25, 2009. Pledge now and you could win a one year free transit pass! http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=445 3A6384E3-614A-409D-A2DA-7090A0C289AB Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:41:26 -0400 The American Public Transportation’s (APTA) 2009 Annual Meeting will take place October 4-7, 2009, in Orlando, Fl. The meeting provides a time for transportation professionals to network and learn about important topics in transportation such as authorization, economic stimulus, high speed rail, sustainability and green jobs, technology and workforce development. Registration is now open and can be completed online. http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2009/Pages/090909_annual_meeting.aspx AB20DEFC-BCBE-4D34-8E1F-707A157B12BE Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:40:46 -0400 Governor Kaine recently announced that on Telework Day, August 3, 2009, Virginia teleworkers saved approximately $113,000, avoided driving 140,000 miles and removed 75.89 tons of pollutants from the air. More than 2,200 federal and private sector employees and more than 1,700 state employees participated in Telework Day, which was a component of Governor Kaine’s Executive Order 82 to reduce executive branch agencies’ impacts on the environment. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=1057 D8B33549-62F3-4596-8F81-832313B0199D Fri, 4 Sep 2009 15:15:16 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently reached an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) milestone when the agency beat the September 1, 2009, deadline to provide all states and local communities 50 percent of their ARRA transit formula dollars. The FTA has provided $6.7 billion, nearly 90 percent of its $7.5 billion stimulus funding, to transit operators across the U.S. http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_10518.html 41440AEC-C582-4419-B0E2-B63E4643F65E Thu, 3 Sep 2009 15:13:59 -0400 Governor Kaine recently announced that Virginia has been named the Infrastructure State of the Year by CG/LA Infrastructure, LLC. States were evaluated using criteria such as infrastructure investment per capita, vision, leadership, project quality and performance, and local engineering quality. Five Virginia projects – the I-495 Hot Lanes Project, the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, Norfolk Southern's Crescent Corridor Project, the Port of Virginia Expansion Projects and the CSX/High Speed Rail Extension to Richmond – will be recognized at the North American Strategic Infrastructure Leadership Forum in September. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=1052 CC5ACEDA-601F-4306-A2C5-DEDB3BDF9A21 Wed, 2 Sep 2009 15:14:34 -0400 At the 2009 ACT International Conference in Washington, D.C. DRPT employee Jennifer Alcott was presented the ACT Board of Directors 2009 Cathy Cole Memorial Award for Telework. This national award recognizes individuals or organizations that demonstrate outstanding leadership and achievement in advancing telework programs. Also at this conference, recently retired DRPT employee Gus Robey was presented the ACT Board of Directors 2009 Bob Owens TDM Champion Award. This national award recognizes an individual who has championed TDM and who has developed an extremely successful TDM program. http://www.actweb.org CAD0277B-E91A-4FD5-9A88-CC5EC5C1E4B7 Wed, 2 Sep 2009 15:14:08 -0400 Try Transit Week, the statewide event that encourages Virginians to stop driving alone and try a form of transit such as bus, rail, carpools, vanpools or telework, is now on Facebook. Check out the new fan page and learn more about how pledging to try transit in Virginia between September 21 and 25 could win you a free transit pass for a year. http://www.facebook.com/business/dashboard/#/pages/Try-Transit-Week/127219595822 4BFC1903-5CC3-4AB4-97AC-D12BDE2A8507 Tue, 1 Sep 2009 15:13:13 -0400 Beginning October 1, 2009, Amtrak Virginia will expand daily round trip service between Lynchburg and the Northeast Corridor as far north as Boston. Tickets are now available at www.amtrak.com at a 25 percent discount rate until December 16 (14 day advance purchase required). http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=442 188E0909-C7F7-4FF1-A489-E45AF25F269D Mon, 31 Aug 2009 15:12:37 -0400 The Greater Lynchburg Transit Company received the 2009 Outstanding Transit System Achievement Award from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) in the one to four million passenger trips category. The award honors transit operators who have demonstrated achievements in efficiency and effectiveness. This is the second consecutive year that APTA has recognized a Virginia transit operator with this award. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=1049 B0E8B4D1-9041-4011-B02D-64B974777C4F Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:12:06 -0400 Dates have been set in September for the public to review the study alternatives and provide feedback on the best alternative before recommendations are developed. In addition, a new fact sheet has been posted on the study Web page that provides an update since the May 2009 public meetings. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/activities/I66study.aspx 34A5004E-ED02-4835-92BC-FCFD68ECBC5A Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:00:37 -0400 Virginia recently submitted its first high speed rail application for stimulus funds under the Track 1 “ready to go” project category. The application requests $74.8 million for the Arkendale to Powell’s Creek project along the I-95 corridor to build 11.4 miles of third track in Stafford and Prince William Counties. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=441 A907CC02-95AD-4212-B8A5-73CFC5EC38D8 Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:59:52 -0400 Williamsburg Area Transit Authority which provides service to James City County, the City of Williamsburg, and York County, recently added the Williamsburg Trolley to its existing bus service. Its route consists of 30-minute round trips between New Town and Merchants Square, with stops at Williamsburg Shopping Center and High Street. The Trolley’s hours of service are from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 3 p.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon until 8 p.m. Sunday. http://www.williamsburgtransport.com/ A68EE1B8-455C-43B3-B6EE-2D3E53829163 Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:52:09 -0400 Statewide Try Transit Week, which encourages Virginians to stop driving alone and try a form of transit such as bus, rail, carpool, vanpool or telework, will take place from September 21 to 25. Virginians can visit the event Web site to learn more about the transit options in Virginia, the benefits of using transit and for a chance to win a year’s pass to the transit service of their choice for a year. http://www.trytransitweek.com 2A4F8D6C-DD09-43F0-90D7-BECC29782790 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 13:51:24 -0400 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently posted the application form for Track 2 stimulus projects, which should focus on corridor development. The applications are due October 2, 2009. A new Q&A has also been posted that provides answers to questions posed by applicants. The Q&A covers topics such as funding, eligibility and application/track selection. http://www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/2153 B0AF9AE5-BD25-44AB-8E40-1A5F96E7559B Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:31:51 -0400 Governor Kaine recently issued Executive Order 85, which directs that Virginia Workforce Connection (VWC), the official Web site for job vacancy listings in Virginia, be used by all state agencies, contractors and sub-recipients for the recruitment of jobs directly created by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/Initiatives/ExecutiveOrders/pdf/EO_85.pdf 49F08AE3-77D1-4D09-9210-B1E49FDB6237 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:31:22 -0400 Operation Lifesaver, a Virginia-based nonprofit organization which raises awareness of potential hazards at rail crossings, was recently awarded a $1,015,00 grant from the Federal Railroad Administration to continue its public education efforts. Operation Lifesaver initiatives include State Assistance Programs to support rail safety awareness, as well as public education initiatives. http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2009/fra0509.htm AEE5BF6C-DA07-4EED-B57C-03D242320DCF Fri, 7 Aug 2009 14:30:58 -0400 The U.S. Department of Transportation plans to announce projects selected under the $1.5 billion discretionary transportation stimulus program in January 2010, one month earlier than the required deadline. The TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) Discretionary Grant Program will help fund projects that have a significant impact on surface transportation in the nation, a region or metropolitan area. http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2009/dot11209.htm 6C6AADDC-743A-4344-83A6-83CFBE67F2A7 Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:52:22 -0400 Governor Kaine recently appointed two new members to the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) – Aubrey Layne Jr., president and principal broker at Great Atlantic Management, LLC.; and Sharon Pandak, partner at Greehan, Taves, Pandak & Stoner, PLLC – to serve four year terms. Current CTB member Dana Martin was also re-appointed for another term. The CTB is the policy board for the Virginia Department of Transportation and the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=1015 94864B41-6249-4A14-A46E-AF4C29C5299E Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:51:54 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) guidance on News Starts/Small Start Policies and Procedures, which assigned weights for the six project justification criteria for New Starts and the three project justification criteria for Small Starts in the project evaluation process, became final on July 29, 2009. The FTA recently issued additional proposed guidance meant to further streamline the program. Comments on the additional proposed guidance are due by August 18, 2009. http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-18096.pdf BDCC98F1-7334-433A-A728-F1F4898B89BB Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:51:20 -0400 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will hold a hearing on August 13, 2009, to gain feedback on proposed system standards to evaluate major freight and intercity railroad Positive Train Control (PTC) system plans. A Notice for Proposed Rulemaking has been published in the Federal Register, and comments on the proposed rule are due August 20, 2009. PTCs are systems designed to help prevent collisions between trains, enforce speed limits and protect employees engaged in track maintenance. http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-17184.pdf BBF92AD5-6976-4E14-A8A9-8187E155FF21 Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:49:47 -0400 The Community Transportation Association of Virginia (CTAV) will hold its 2009 EXPO and Training Conference August 4 and 5 in Roanoke. The conference will include various training and information sessions on key topics in transit as well as a vehicle and equipment EXPO. Charles Badger, Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation Director, will serve as the ribbon cutter for the event. http://ctav.org/forms/name_expo_2009 05E55F9B-B6D9-4853-AD3D-AB9DFC709093 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:15:03 -0400 Moving Cooler, a new study sponsored by organizations such as the Federal Highway Administration, the American Public Transportation Association and the Environmental Protection Agency, has found that increased transit service combined with operational efficiencies and land use development can reduce greenhouse gases by 24 percent. The study also found that the vehicle cost savings of these strategies exceed the cost of implementation by as much as $112 billion. http://commerce.uli.org/misc/movingcooler.pdf 89C1E786-FCCD-47E1-B7AA-5807B382645A Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:14:33 -0400 The July issue of Connection, the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation’s (DRPT) quarterly newsletter, is available on DRPT’s Web site. In this issue, DRPT provides an overview of stimulus funding activities, highlights of the recently approved Six-Year Improvement Program, key project updates, and interesting facts about Virginia’s transit operators. The next issue of Connection will be published in October. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/files/July09_final.pdf F9AAE884-C067-4B1A-88E2-F3D6ACDB0024 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:13:57 -0400 The Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Fiscal Year 2010 Appropriations Bill recently passed the House. The bill contains $8.3 billion in Transit Formula and Bus Grants, $1.8 billion in Transit Capital Investment Grants/New Starts funding, $66 million for Federal Transit Administration Research and University Centers, and $4 billion for rail funding. The bill will be up for consideration in the Senate soon. http://www.apta.com/government_affairs/washrep/2009july16.cfm 9AADA66F-9C06-4B47-A0BC-EA227BA0EEF0 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:13:21 -0400 Governor Kaine recently joined with local government officials and regional business leaders to appeal for federal funds to support high speed rail between Washington, D.C., and Richmond and Petersburg. On July 10, Virginia submitted pre-applications for more than $2 billion in stimulus funding to support improvements necessary to advance high speed rail in the Commonwealth. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=435 63553530-7254-4EB6-8DAC-678C5A61BAD7 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:17:27 -0400 One billion dollars in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding has been allocated to projects in Virginia to support infrastructure improvements and job creation. Of the $1 billion, transportation related allocations include $62 million for rail improvements, $28 million for urban transit, $14 million for small urban transit, $4 million for rural transit, and approximately $184 million for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, which is shared with Maryland and Washington, D.C. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=998 D847371C-611B-4FF2-8436-4BAEE3383B1F Mon, 20 Jul 2009 10:16:58 -0400 Governor Kaine recently appointed one new member to the Virginia Rail Advisory Board (RAB), Senior Vice President of the Buckingham Branch Railroad Company Steven Powell, and reappointed existing members of the board for four year terms. At its July meeting, the RAB elected Trent Crewe as Board Chairman and Sharon Bulova as Vice-Chairman. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=997 1CA0525C-B75F-4C85-818F-981C0D5E1F2C Fri, 17 Jul 2009 10:15:16 -0400 Governor Kaine recently declared August 3, 2009, as Statewide Telework Day. The Commonwealth, along with Telework!VA and Telework Exchange, is encouraging individuals and organizations to pledge to telework on this day in order to save time, save money, avoid traffic congestions and improve air quality. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=429 760D49C7-D2B3-4860-B28C-125BE3AAFD38 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:21:42 -0400 Virginia recently submitted pre-applications for more than $2 billion of high speed rail projects under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s (ARRA) high speed rail program, which will provide $8 billion for projects across the country. The applications focus on the most congested areas in the Commonwealth including the I-95 corridor from Washington, D.C., to Petersburg and the Hampton Roads area. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=421 9D3EC0FA-98BA-4B34-A75D-02684F0E950E Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:21:06 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association’s monthly “Transit Savings Report”, which shows how an individual in a two-person household can save money using transit and living with one less car, showed that transit riders save on average $761 a month, or $9,137 a year, based on national averages for parking, driving and gas prices. http://www.apta.com/media/releases/090710_transit_savings.cfm D78D9216-BE38-4C90-B8C3-073DF84867AF Fri, 10 Jul 2009 10:20:44 -0400 The Texas Transportation Institute (TTI)’s annual congestion report, the 2009 Urban Mobility Report, indicates that transit saved 646 million hours in travel time and 398 million gallons of fuel in 2007. In addition, the report explains that without transit, congestion costs would have risen by 16 percent to an additional $13.7 billion when compared to 2005. http://www.apta.com/media/releases/090708_transit_saved.cfm 29FD6A11-1520-4707-893C-0373C57F5AF9 Wed, 8 Jul 2009 16:03:33 -0400 The Virginia Rail Advisory Board will hold its July meeting on July 9, 2009, at 10:00 a.m. at the Department of Motor Vehicles Headquarters Board Room. Topics of discussion will include projects approved for FY10-FY15 rail funding, current project updates and a rail stimulus update. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=399 558A2CFB-A851-40C8-91D0-ADCE42619A63 Wed, 8 Jul 2009 16:02:48 -0400 The American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 that passed the full House on June 26, 2009, includes provisions that would benefit transit operators. The legislation would permit states to apply up to just less than one percent of their clean energy and energy efficiency investment funds for transportation. The bill has been read twice in the Senate. http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?c111:3:./temp/~c111U9URiL 1C4F4645-DFF1-4AE5-A5EC-BB3AE6CFF3E2 Tue, 7 Jul 2009 16:02:07 -0400 The U.S. House of Representatives Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee on Highways and Transit recently reported the draft of the Surface Transportation Authorization Act (STAA) to full committee. The act would authorize and fund surface transportation programs for the next six years. The bill is still in preliminary form and does not yet include funding levels or high priority projects. The committee hopes to present a final mark-up of the legislation by the end of July; however, this will require an agreement with the House Ways & Means Committee on the financing portion of the bill. http://www.apta.com/government_affairs/washrep/2009june25.cfm 872A8445-D445-4F2E-8149-A51540714A49 Fri, 26 Jun 2009 10:22:55 -0400 On June 24, 2009, President Obama signed the Supplemental Appropriations Act for 2009, which includes a provision that allows up to 10 percent of each amount of apportioned stimulus funds for the urbanized and non-urbanized formula programs to be used for operations. The bill does not change the deadline for states to apportion the first 50 percent of funds received, but does allow for modifications to grants. Operating funds under this provision are to be supportive of job creation, job preservation or service preservation. http://www.fta.dot.gov/news/news_events_10012.html B6005091-4180-480A-AFF0-557E47D09427 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:21:40 -0400 Three Virginia companies - Consumer Electronics Association, Tysons Corner Center and Noblis – were recently honored by Commuter Connections at the National Press Club for their outstanding commute/telework offerings for employees. Commuter Connections is a program of the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board at the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. The companies initiated the programs to support alternatives to driving to work alone such as carpooling/vanpooling, teleworking, bicycling and taking transit. http://www.mwcog.org/news/press/detail.asp?NEWS_ID=383 8BAD25DE-D8E0-4514-860F-6BB68600724D Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:04:26 -0400 Governor Kaine recently celebrated the ten-year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Olmstead v. L.C. decision ensuring equal access and rights for people with disabilities. The decision requires states to increase options for community-based services for the disabled. Since the decision, the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) has worked with the Olmstead Commission to increase transportation options for the disabled through DRPT’s human service transportation programs. DRPT currently administers three federal programs aimed at increasing transportation for people with disabilities, and has worked with rural and small urban areas to develop Coordinated Human Service Transportation Plans. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=978 BAE6D93F-C821-4396-8F57-2BC22C307668 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:01:04 -0400 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) recently approved the FY2010-2015 Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP), which contains $2.027 billion in rail and transit investments over the next six years. Virginia’s investments will support some of the largest transportation projects in the Commonwealth’s history, including the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project and Norfolk’s Tide light rail system, and will enhance rail and public transportation services throughout the state. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/about/finance.aspx DB2ECB25-83BB-415B-A09D-34D17A285706 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:20:38 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) recently released its first quarter national passenger ridership which show that nearly 2.6 billion trips were taken by transit during the first quarter of 2009. Despite the decrease in gas prices, higher unemployment, lower revenues and an economic downturn, transit ridership is about the same as last year’s record-setting quarterly total. On June 18, APTA held its fourth annual “Dump the Pump” event to encourage transit use nationwide. http://www.apta.com ED2D6C90-C948-4D72-834C-617A242500EE Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:19:39 -0400 As required by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently released Interim Guidance for the High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail Program. The document, which is available for public comment through July 10, 2009, provides the grant application schedule as well as evaluation and selection criteria. http://www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/2153 066C5F2C-B5CF-4619-8922-F145B20B38A2 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:19:01 -0400 A recent American Public Transportation Association (APTA) survey found that 80 percent of transit operators have experienced static or reduced funding from local, state and federal sources, resulting in an increase in fares or reduction in service for nine out of 10 of those operators. APTA is calling on Congress to provide new revenue sources for transit through two pieces of legislation – the American Clean Energy and Security Act and a provision in the pending war supplemental bill that would allow transit operators to use up to 10 percent of their stimulus funding for operating costs. http://www.apta.com/media/releases/090612_constraints.cfm C02DAB1A-CDDD-4597-956C-888157EC1A50 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 16:16:15 -0400 Governor Kaine recently issued Executive Order 82, which will help to reduce the energy and environmental impact of executive branch agencies and institutions in Virginia. Among other strategies, the order requires that all agencies implement transit and ridesharing incentive programs, and suggests that agencies use telework to help reduce highway congestion. Governor Kaine has declared Monday, August 3, 2009, as “Statewide Telework Day” to encourage the initiative and asks that agencies and businesses allow employees to telework on that day where possible. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/Initiatives/ExecutiveOrders/2009/EO_82.cfm FA8CD59F-B943-4180-B930-D30C0AEE41EE Thu, 11 Jun 2009 16:15:20 -0400 Each year, the Virginia Transit Association (VTA) recognizes outstanding leadership in and contributions to the public transportation field. Awards are given in the Outstanding Program, Outstanding Public Transportation Marketing, and Public Official of the Year categories. Recipients of the 2009 VTA Awards include Blacksburg Transit, Greater Lynchburg Transit Company, Hampton Roads Transit, JAUNT, FRED and Jay Fisette of Arlington County. http://www.vatransit.com/awards/index.htm 3AE3BDD3-8D9F-4742-8314-CCC14C93EE39 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:37:52 -0400 The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently announced deadlines for applications for projects to advance high speed rail in America. The deadlines follow the three project categories outlined in A Vision for High Speed Rail in America, released in April. Grant applications for “ready to go” projects and planning projects are due in early August. Projects will be selected within 45 days of the application closing date. Applications for corridor development projects are due by the end of September, and projects will be selected by the end of December. Only “ready to go” and corridor development projects are eligible for stimulus funds. The schedule is subject to revision in the interim guidance to applicants that will be issued on June 17, 2009. http://www.fra.dot.gov/Downloads/FAQ%20for%20Strategic%20Plan%20and%20ARRA%20050709%20FINAL.pdf 2C32AD59-2755-415C-8909-DACC28AB7FBA Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:09:58 -0400 The Commonwealth is updating VTrans2035, Virginia’s long-range transportation plan, and four public meetings will take place in June and July throughout the Commonwealth. The meetings will provide a time for the public to learn more about the components of the plan, which include rail, transit, highway, port and aviation recommendations, and provide feedback on the long-term priorities for Virginia’s transportation system. http://www.vtrans.org C47D4E91-467A-4A24-8122-59A1F818891F Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:09:22 -0400 On June 18, the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) will celebrate the fourth annual Dump the Pump Day when Americans are encouraged to leave their cars at home and use transit to raise awareness of the financial benefits of using transit. APTA has created a Dump the Pump tool kit for transit operators interested in promoting the national event. The kit includes suggested activities, advertisements, media materials and fact sheets. http://www.apta.com/services/dump_the_pump_09/index.cfm D86F4ADD-4DB3-4459-9F50-0096474AA94E Tue, 9 Jun 2009 09:08:46 -0400 The Central Virginia chapter of the Women’s Transportation Seminar, which works to advance the careers of women in transportation, is hosting a breakfast reception to welcome Chip Badger as the new agency director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), and to tour DRPT’s new Richmond headquarters. The reception will take place at DRPT’s new office, located at 600 E. Main Street, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. on June 19. All are welcome to attend, free of charge, but RSVPs are required by June 16 to Jean Greene, jgreene@ica-onramp.com. Space is limited. http://www.wtsinternational.org/chapters.aspx?id=7374 632FFC79-7B29-4BD7-A4C2-905EB1AD2F48 Mon, 8 Jun 2009 09:08:01 -0400 Governor Kaine recently announced that the agreement between Amtrak and the Commonwealth to operate a new daily round trip train from Richmond to Washington, D.C. has been signed. The new Richmond to Washington, D.C., service and the new service from Lynchburg to Washington, D.C., represent the first state supported intercity passenger rail services in Virginia history. The Richmond to Washington, D.C. route will begin operation in December 2009, with stops at Staples Mill, Ashland, Fredericksburg, Quantico, Woodbridge, Alexandria, and L’Enfant Plaza. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=393 1FC67E63-1BF2-446D-B2EF-A8A88F58C32D Wed, 3 Jun 2009 14:14:04 -0400 The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation’s (DRPT) Telework!VA Program was recently honored with the 2009 Telework Exchange Tele-Vision Award for excellence in a State Government Telework Program at the fourth annual national awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. Jennifer Alcott, Telework!VA Program Manager, was also honored as the 2009 Telework Driver for State Government. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=395 69F2B736-2842-497F-99F8-9EBA7CD96995 Tue, 2 Jun 2009 14:13:34 -0400 The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) set aside $150 million for the Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP) to help fund projects aimed at increasing the safety of transit operations. Operational projects can include the hiring of transit law enforcement officers for efforts such as K-9 teams, mobile screen teams and anti-terrorism teams, as well as related support and equipment costs. Capital projects can include infrastructure and asset protection and other mitigation activities. Transit operators eligible for 2009 TSGP funding are eligible to apply for stimulus funding through the program. Applications are due June 15 for operational projects and June 29 for capital projects. http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/arra/index.shtm 8044C84A-A611-4118-B95C-25FF07146999 Mon, 1 Jun 2009 14:13:03 -0400 Effective May 29, 2009, the Federal Transit Administration has expanded the Section 5317 New Freedom Program to include additional types of projects considered to be “beyond the ADA” and eligible for funding. New and expanded fixed route and demand response transit services planned for and designed to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities are now considered eligible projects. http://www.fta.dot.gov/funding/grants/grants_financing_3549.html 297ABE66-F9CE-4F2E-A898-B86A6A9A13D3 Sat, 30 May 2009 14:12:32 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) recently released proposed guidance on New Starts/Small Starts policies and procedures, which presents weights to be assigned for the six project justification criteria for New Starts and the three project justification criteria for Small Starts in the project evaluation process. Comments on the proposed weights will be accepted until June 19, 2009. http://www.fta.dot.gov/planning/newstarts/planning_environment_9727.html 96787164-76BA-4E34-9F99-DB0865E466E8 Tue, 26 May 2009 09:29:25 -0400 In a hearing on May 21, 2009, the Senate unanimously voted to approve President Obama’s nominations of Peter Rogoff as administrator of the Federal Transit Administration and John Porcari as deputy secretary of transportation. http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/aptapt/issues/2009-05-25/index.html A62834DF-4ECD-4CDB-A541-EDFC2B61170F Mon, 25 May 2009 09:28:51 -0400 The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) recently approved $1.46 million to help fund rail improvement projects through the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation’s Rail Industrial Access Program. The projects will help provide rail service to businesses in Augusta, Northampton and Botetourt Counties, and will help create more than 200 jobs. In addition, the projects will encourage freight shipments by rail, translating into more than 2,500 railcar shipments per year once the projects are complete. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/special/files/RIA%20Program%20Application%20Briefing.pdf 20CF3C45-5CBD-4568-8FC3-EF66708301DD Fri, 22 May 2009 09:28:12 -0400 The Buckingham Branch Railroad (BBRR), one of the 10 shortline railroads operating in Virginia, has filed a notice with the Federal Register to take over operations of the Keysville Line, formerly operated by the North Carolina & Virginia Railroad, Inc. The track on the line, which stretches 56.9 miles through Burkeville, Keysville and Clarksville, Va., is owned by Norfolk Southern Railway. BBRR will lease and operate the line, and is preparing to begin improvements for more efficient operations. http://www.buckinghambranch.com 8A7BC7C4-A3AA-4EDD-9DC2-E1F1CDC2791A Fri, 22 May 2009 09:27:39 -0400 At their May 21 meeting, the Commonwealth Transportation Board approved projects to receive stimulus funds and be added to the FY2009-FY2014 Six-Year Improvement Plan. Of the projects approved, $27.8 million was approved for Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation projects to benefit rail transportation. The NIT Central Rail Yard project will help improve freight shipping at the Port of Hampton Roads, and the Acca Yard project will advance engineering for a rail route to bypass the freight rail yard to enhance passenger rail service reliability. http://www.ctb.virginia.gov/resources/2009/cm_4_052109.pdf 54BD82BD-DF1E-4021-B1A5-41FD4C2AC168 Thu, 21 May 2009 16:41:59 -0400 The Draft FY2010-FY2015 Six-Year Improvement Program is available on the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation’s (DRPT) Web site for review. The document outlines DRPT’s funding recommendations for rail, transit and transportation demand management programs over the next six years. The program was presented to the Commonwealth Transportation Board today for action at the board’s June 18 meeting. Public hearings have been scheduled throughout Virginia to gain feedback on the draft plan. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=388 3BBB7961-30DE-4E3B-B12C-EBA2465EBA9F Wed, 20 May 2009 16:41:23 -0400 The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently announced the availability of, and program guidance for, the $1.5 billion in discretionary grant funds made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The grants, termed “Grants for Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery” (TIGER), will be competitively awarded for capital investments that will have a significant impact on the nation, a metropolitan area or a region. Since the program is new, comments on the program guidelines are being accepted until June 17, 2009. Applications for the TIGER program are due September 15, 2009. http://www.dot.gov/recovery/ost/ 3194772D-DE17-44DE-B980-6AE8DF59E044 Tue, 19 May 2009 16:40:47 -0400 Virginia Regional Transit (VRT) celebrated the completion of the VRT West Campus administrative/training and maintenance facility located in Culpeper, Virginia. The facility will be the central operating facility for VRT-managed transit services in Fauquier, Orange and Culpeper Counties. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=387 680C33E6-92BE-446A-8530-3EBFB1B051D3 Tue, 19 May 2009 16:40:17 -0400 As a reminder, applications are due May 22 for the Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas and Energy Reduction Program (TIGGER) program. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provided $100 million in funding for the new discretionary grant program for transit projects that reduce a transit system’s greenhouse gas emissions or energy use. http://www.fta.dot.gov/index_9440_9326.html C4DAFAE2-0744-4BE7-B1A1-6E6FC98A1F51 Wed, 13 May 2009 16:19:49 -0400 On Friday, May 15, Lansdowne Road in the Fredericksburg area will temporarily close to through traffic while CSX upgrades the rail crossing located near Mine Road between Park Drive and Route 2.The crossing will remain closed until May 18. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=385 51485234-DCAA-45FF-95DB-EDB05D6C4801 Mon, 11 May 2009 16:19:10 -0400 The City of Waynesboro celebrated the kick-off of the Waynesboro Circulator on Monday, a new bus service for the city that provides weekday service with 17 regular stops and scheduled pick ups for riders with disabilities. http://www.waynesboro.va.us/government/waynesboro_427_brochure.pdf B9F69A35-F1EA-4891-8D4B-5D61F133F89A Mon, 11 May 2009 16:18:41 -0400 Several projects that have received Full Funding Grant Agreements from the Federal Transit Administration will receive $742.5 million in stimulus funds. These funds do not increase the agreed upon federal funding, but expedite the funds committed in the agreements to invest more dollars in the local economy, to supplement local resources and to allow quicker investment in major transit projects nationwide. The Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project will receive $77.3 million in expedited funds. http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2009/dot6409.htm 9F352DBA-6515-4FD1-94F3-5523142B6189 Thu, 7 May 2009 16:18:04 -0400 On May 19, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation will host a workshop that will help transit operators understand how systems engineering can be applied to the Intelligent Transportation Systems project delivery process. The workshop will be held at the University of Virginia School of Engineering from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/events/otc/details.aspx?ID=34 C8415358-CEC8-49E1-A27C-038A403378A5 Wed, 6 May 2009 16:40:52 -0400 The 2009 Virginia Transit Association Annual Conference will take place June 8-9 in Fredericksburg, Va. Topics such as sustainability, new federal legislation including re-authorization and stimulus funding, alternative fuel vehicles, and marketing trends will be discussed during the two-day conference. http://www.vatransit.com 2DCBB4A7-F10C-4740-8FFF-A1773087AAF3 Tue, 5 May 2009 16:40:18 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration recently released the Rail Modernization Study, which outlines the level of capital investment necessary to reach or maintain a state of good repair for the nation’s largest rail transit operators, including the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority who operators Metrorail service. The study identifies approximately $50 billion in immediate needs, and $5.9 billion annually to maintain the system. http://www.fta.dot.gov/documents/Rail_Mod_Final_Report_4-27-09.pdf DA4D34EB-B0EA-4207-B803-218238D52E6A Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:39:49 -0400 A new American Public Transportation Association study shows that 30,000 jobs are created for every $1 billion invested in transit. The study, Job Impacts of Spending on Public Transportation: an Update, reveals that based on these projections, public transportation stimulus funding may create approximately 252,000 jobs for Americans. http://www.apta.com/media/releases/090429_jobs_impact.cfm 16233174-5CD0-4FC8-955F-1B3786962554 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:39:17 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration recently issued guidance regarding the full apportionment of FY09 federal transit funding. This guidance will be reflected in the FY10-FY15 Six-Year Improvement Plan currently under development. DRPT will present the rail, transit and transportation demand management portion of the draft plan to the Commonwealth Transportation Board at the May 20 workshop. http://www.fta.dot.gov/regional_offices_9562.html 1D8B84A4-3263-4EE6-9F52-E2BCA881993F Tue, 28 Apr 2009 16:57:53 -0400 On April 27, Bay Transit, the only transit operator in the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck regions, broke ground on a new facility that will be used for maintenance, training and central dispatch for the transit operator. Construction of the facility is anticipated to be complete in 2010. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=379 16554733-550C-4837-9D83-2C8CD78D4F8D Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:57:23 -0400 On May 6, DRPT will host the 2009 Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Spring Meeting in Richmond to provide TDM grantees with project updates and to facilitate discussion among grantees regarding lessons learned and best practices for enhancing TDM agency services and participation. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/events/default.aspx 0B8D4A94-C8C6-4C2D-99C4-FD2632E0BAB2 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 16:56:39 -0400 On Earth Day, April 22, DRPT hosted an educational “Green Carpet Event” for Northern Virginia businesses to provide additional information on how to incorporate telework into an organization. Delegate James Scott and Secretary of Transportation Pierce Homer spoke about how telework can benefit businesses, employees and the environment. http://www.teleworkva.org 83473395-2720-46A5-80A4-6DC6812ED529 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:55:48 -0400 The April 2009 issue of Connection, DRPT’s quarterly newsletter, is available online. Topics covered in the issue include a message from DRPT’s new Director, Chip Badger; new intercity passenger rail service; study and project updates; transportation funding; and an update on federal legislation. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/files/DRPT_April09_FinalwLinks.pdf 8F89FA55-6FC4-4F05-9A1D-1CF81F6D8C57 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:54:54 -0400 DRPT has released findings from the Virginia State of the Commute Report, a statewide survey administered to gain information on commuting trends and attitudes in Virginia. The results provide a snapshot of the current statewide commuting situation and valuable perspective on the similarities and differences in mature and evolving commuter markets. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/activities/stateofcommute.aspx 11535CF4-8944-44D5-AD69-CEC41AD3378A Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:17:22 -0400 President Obama has published his vision and strategic plan for high speed rail in America. The plan identifies $8 billion in funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and $1 billion per year for five years in the federal budget to help advance high speed rail in key corridors throughout the country. A proposed three-tier investment strategy details the order in which projects will be funded. http://www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/31 5E7F7352-2449-43CA-99A8-643FD1D06BAB Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:18:15 -0400 The Commonwealth Transportation Board has approved the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation’s (DRPT) recommendations for the first round of federal stimulus funding for rural and small urban transit operators. DRPT will work with the Federal Transit Administration, transit operators, local jurisdictions and Metropolitan Planning Organizations to advance specific projects to be funded through the $17.3 million initial allocation. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/special/files/ARRA%20Rural%20and%20Small%20Urban%20Transit%20Initial%20Allocation%20Presentation.pdf 7A1C9EED-46FA-490F-819A-F4D1F2E3DEAD Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:17:59 -0400 On April 23, the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) will move its headquarters in Richmond, Va., to Main Street Centre, located at 600 E. Main St., Suite 2102, Richmond, VA 23219. All DRPT phone and fax numbers will remain the same. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/default.aspx DCDDCFB7-7A10-4D3C-A469-5EC54D629AF9 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:04:09 -0400 Public information meetings for the I-66 Transit/Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Study will be held on May 12, 13 and 14 in locations along the study corridor. The meetings will provide a time for the public to learn more about the study, which is evaluating short- and medium-term transit and TDM enhancements along the I-66 corridor. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/activities/I66study.aspx 0AD3971A-7DBD-4CD0-BE16-CC824C3DC24D Mon, 13 Apr 2009 16:03:25 -0400 Virginia Secretary of Transportation Pierce Homer recently released a list of transportation projects to be considered by the Commonwealth Transportation Board for potential funding from the Recovery Act. The package includes potential projects in all modes of transportation including rail, transit and highway projects. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=377 A5382B06-D136-42DD-BFA0-21370DE83119 Thu, 9 Apr 2009 16:00:08 -0400 Today, President Obama announced his nomination of Peter Rogoff as Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Administrator. Mr. Rogoff has 22 years of experience in the Senate Appropriations Committee, including 14 years as the Democratic Staff Director of its Transportation Subcommittee. http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/President-Obama-Announces-More-Key-Administration-Posts-4/8/2009 2492E2B7-07FD-4C1E-964C-DD0B8D8505EB Wed, 8 Apr 2009 17:19:51 -0400 The Office of Management and Budget has published the proposed standard data elements for reports under section 1512 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (grants, cooperative agreements and loans) on the Federal Register for review and comment. The general public and Federal agencies are invited to comment on the standard elements to be included in reporting requirements. Comments must be submitted on or before May 1, 2009. http://www.fta.dot.gov/documents/040409_OMB_Cmt_Request_1512_data_specs(1).pdf BBFA879F-E4E0-46F2-AEE4-EA435B74124C Wed, 8 Apr 2009 17:19:21 -0400 On April 9, the Rail Advisory Board will meet to provide final comments on the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation’s recommendations for Rail Enhancement funding in the draft FY10-FY15 Six-Year Improvement Plan. An overview presentation and a complete list of applications received are available on DRPT’s Web site. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/projects/ref.aspx FDCCC049-DCE1-459A-B907-8ED1E783821F Wed, 8 Apr 2009 17:18:57 -0400 In a ceremony on March 30, U.S. Secretary of Transportation LaHood honored Mountain Empire Older Citizens (MEOC), an area agency on aging and public transit operator in far southwest Virginia, with the 2009 United We Ride National Leadership Award for leadership in developing a coordinated health and human services transportation system to enhance transportation for the elderly, disabled and low income population in the region. http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=915 02559A88-452D-4897-82CA-2D7FB822BADE Fri, 3 Apr 2009 17:18:24 -0400 On April 1, 2009, Governor Kaine, Delegate Shannon Valentine, Senator Stephen Newman, Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman, and representatives from local governments, DRPT and Amtrak came together in Lynchburg to mark the beginning of construction for rail infrastructure improvements that will support new passenger rail service in the Lynchburg region. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=374 B8817998-CB24-415B-82FB-DD3FB4C4EF44 Thu, 2 Apr 2009 15:12:56 -0400 The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) provided additional funding for efforts to reduce various impacts to the environment, including diesel and greenhouse gas emissions. The National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program provides $156 million and the Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas and Energy Reduction Program provides $100 million to help reduce environmental impacts. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssdetails.aspx?id=37 ACEBB953-7029-4C03-9A19-B8C163D4208D Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:12:38 -0400 The Waynesboro City Council recently approved a new bus service that will provide more than 20 stops around the Waynesboro area. Virginia Regional Transit will operate the service and will work with the city in the coming months to develop the final service plan. http://www.nbc29.com/Global/story.asp?s=10032519 ED65AF8E-6F37-4E1A-B5ED-C1FEC9FFFFF6 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 17:12:01 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association of America (APTA) recently launched a new advocacy campaign to educate the public about the return on investment in transit and to encourage increased funding in the upcoming authorization bill that will build on programs authorized under the Safe, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) that are set to expire on September 30, 2009. http://www.publictransportation.org/takesusthere/index.html 08421810-1FD7-43B0-9404-335FA401AF3C Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:54:47 -0400 On March 18, President Obama announced his intention to nominate United Transportation Union (UTU) Illinois State Legislative Director Joe Szabo as Federal Railroad Administrator. Karen Rae, former DRPT Director and Deputy Commissioner for Policy and Planning for the New York State Department of Transportation, has been named as FRA Deputy Administrator. http://www.progressiverailroading.com/news/article.asp?id=19958 74B76199-3983-4799-B926-B790037A2DC0 Thu, 19 Mar 2009 13:53:51 -0400 The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act amended the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) policy regarding the maximum allowable fringe benefit employers may offer employees, increasing the amount from $120 to $230, and nearly doubling the annual savings for commuters. The regulation went into effect March 1, 2009. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssmore5.aspx 5773432B-3EBB-4B3D-9881-8D209F0E0A37 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:53:26 -0400 Today, Governor Kaine announced that Charles Badger has been appointed Director for the agency which oversees rail, transit and transportation demand management activities in the Commonwealth. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=350 E3D8BEE5-F05E-48F8-86C7-B120836B8FE7 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:20:58 -0400 The Federal Transit Administration has added several new reference items regarding transit investments to be funded through the stimulus package, including a state-by-state funding table, major milestones and deadlines, an overview presentation and an FAQ. http://www.fta.dot.gov/index_9118.html 65B49B25-D668-43FB-A3CF-4E0DAB74FC5D Tue, 17 Mar 2009 14:20:22 -0400 The Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC) will hold a public hearing on March 25, 2009, to receive comments about the proposed elimination of the North Route 1 OmniRide route due to low ridership. The meeting will be held at the PRTC Transit Center in Woodbridge. http://www.omniride.com/about-us/press-releases/press_releases.php?docid=50 3A23D326-7028-467B-A5FD-8382908FD3EC Tue, 17 Mar 2009 14:19:49 -0400 On March 13, 2009, Vice President Biden announced additional information on projects to be funded through the $1.3 billion in stimulus funding for Amtrak. http://www.dot.gov/affairs/dot3009.htm C3868498-3C27-4CB5-A9E3-DFD882CA2D88 Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:19:23 -0400 On March 11, 2009, President Obama signed the Omnibus Appropriations Act of 2009 (H.R. 1105), which appropriated unobligated funds from the FY09 budget to support additional projects and programs through the federal fiscal year which ends September 30, 2009. $12.9 billion was included for transit, and several transit capital investment grants in Virginia were called out. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssmore2.aspx 007C9B00-7251-4455-B1AF-67B8CA796878 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:18:49 -0400 On March 10, 2009, U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood signed the Full Funding Grant Agreement for Phase I of the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project. The agreement commits $900 million in federal funds to the project through 2016. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=330 AA216781-84B9-4321-B9F7-ECA488159B3D Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:27:57 -0400 Charlottesville Transit Service (CTS) broke ground on their new maintenance and operations facility on March 9, 2009. The facility, to be built using green standards, will serve as the CTS base of operations and dispatching. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=335 D0D5C1A8-B493-4C94-B3E8-EFDC7C19D83D Tue, 10 Mar 2009 16:27:13 -0400 During the week of March 9, Alexandria Transit Company will be celebrating 25 years of DASH service to the community. Over the years, DASH has grown from a 17 bus system to a 64 bus system serving four million riders annually. http://www.dashbus.com/news/newsDisplay.aspx?id=20432 04FA967C-B90F-4BF0-AE7C-D8316FD73C7D Mon, 9 Mar 2009 16:26:36 -0400 The American Public Transportation Association has announced that despite falling gas prices and a slowing economy, Americans took 10.7 billion trips in 2008 using transit, a four percent increase that set the highest ridership record in 52 years. http://www.apta.com/media/releases/090309_ridership.cfm D123E2A7-FEFD-45CA-9689-A27D54AB0869 Mon, 9 Mar 2009 16:25:13 -0400 From March 4-7, 2009, Buckingham Branch Railroad (BBRR) in Staunton hosted an Amtrak passenger train emergency response session. Over 200 participants took part in the training that offered detailed classroom instruction and hands on practice for how to handle a passenger train incident. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssmore4.aspx DDA665C4-1E63-4F43-8809-39F3E124F5E7 Sun, 8 Mar 2009 16:24:54 -0400 We’ve added a FAQ from the Federal Railroad Administration and an overview presentation from Virginia Secretary of Transportation Pierce Homer. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssmore1.aspx 06DF86C9-A7F8-4B83-93E3-7E8064CFAC5A Wed, 4 Mar 2009 16:25:48 -0500 At a Rail Advisory Board workshop, DRPT presented preliminary recommendations for Rail Enhancement funding from FY10-FY15 based on applications received during its annual applications period. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/projects/refapps.aspx D3E9DC1A-8E70-486D-ABC4-BDE0FF814737 Wed, 4 Mar 2009 10:30:38 -0500 On February 26, 2009, President Obama released the FY10 budget, which included $72.5 billion for transportation. Key priorities include more targeted surface transportation investments; funding to support commuters, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gases; and the development of high speed rail. http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/ 555C00F1-B051-4FF0-B05B-E2ADDA97CB81 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 10:29:36 -0500 On February 25, 2009, the House of Representatives passed the 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act (H.R. 1105), which appropriates unobligated funds from the FY09 budget to help fund programs through the federal fiscal year which ends September 30, 2009. The $410 billion bill includes $10.2 billion for transit and $1.8 billion for rail. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssmore2.aspx F7B58890-DFB7-4D2F-BC92-6E0147041C70 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 11:20:20 -0500 On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which authorized $787 billion in federal funding for initiatives to help stimulate America’s economy. The bill provides $48.76 billion in transportation funding, much of which will be used for rail and transit investments. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/rssmore1.aspx 38924410-38A7-4B61-8D60-6C1D0FEC3DC7 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:38:48 -0500 On March 2, Virginia Regional Transit will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the beginning of new bus service in West Falls Church with connections to the West Falls Church metro, INOVA Loudoun Hospital and Beaumeade Circle in Ashburn. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=317 DBD78B2E-F0F1-448E-ABD9-FB6F3BBE6263 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 11:36:55 -0500 On February 13, the Commonwealth Transportation Board approved a revised Six-Year Improvement Plan for fiscal years 2009-2014 that includes funding for new intercity passenger rail service between Lynchburg and Washington, D.C., and Richmond and Washington, D.C. http://drpt-dev01/drptweb2006/news/rssmore.aspx DA7998B7-C038-4B67-ABF4-5200AB74F724 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 08:00:09 -0500 On February 13, the Commonwealth Transportation Board approved the revised Six-Year Improvement Plan for fiscal years 2009-2014. The plan was revised to account for reduced state revenues. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=318 CF295F27-5F03-4B7F-8CC1-5366E3509DD1 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 13:08:17 -0500 On February 17, Virginia Regional Transit hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony in Purcellville, Va., to celebrate the new Western Flyer Trolley service which will run Monday through Friday with connections to the Brunswick Train Station. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=320 6FC5CACA-AEB3-42E2-8564-F9D529847201 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 12:47:17 -0500 DRPT recently launched a new RSS news feed to provide timely rail, transit and transportation demand management news. Subscribe to DRPT’s feed and receive up-to-the-minute news and information. http://drpt-dev01/drptweb2006/news/rss.aspx E2F2760F-3F35-439C-B26D-E7D04392CF25 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 12:45:32 -0500 VDOT hosted public hearings on February 9, 10 and 11 to provide project updates on environmental and design work for the I-95/I-395 HOV/Bus/HOT Lanes Project. DRPT is evaluating transit/TDM improvements to be funded through the project. http://www.vamegaprojects.com/projectSummary03.html 00CF83F2-0C6D-4AED-A3EC-7502A74E5D7C Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:46:41 -0500 February 9, Virginia Regional Transit hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony in Leesburg, Va., to celebrate the conversion of the Leesburg Trolley from traditional fuel to soy oil, a renewable energy source that has zero carbon emissions. http://www.drpt.virginia.gov/news/details.aspx?id=297 471B60B6-6045-43A3-B7D3-17CBF10810F5 Mon, 9 Feb 2009 10:40:28 -0500