The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) has officially launched a public input survey, now open through March 27, to help guide the development of the 2026 Virginia Statewide Rail Plan. The agency is seeking feedback to ensure the updated plan “reflects the needs and priorities of passengers, freight partners, and communities across the Commonwealth.”
The Statewide Rail Plan, DRPT says, “establishes a vision for the future of rail in Virginia, outlining both short-term (six-year) and long-term (20-year) investment horizons.” To help shape this vision, the survey gathers public input on potential improvements to passenger rail service as well as freight rail considerations, including impacts at highway rail crossings. Respondents are also invited to share their perspectives on key strategies identified by DRPT to enhance passenger and freight rail service statewide.
Residents, business owners, farmers, and commuters are encouraged to participate in the survey, which takes approximately five to 10 minutes to complete.
In the coming months, DRPT will partner with the University of Virginia’s Institute for Engagement and Negotiation to host a series of public meetings. These meetings, the agency says, “will provide an opportunity to review survey findings and gather additional feedback on how Virginians would like to see the rail system evolve.”
