Long Bridge Project Updates
Big changes are coming to rail service across our region as part of a major long-term investment in transportation infrastructure. Beginning in January 2026, Virginia Railway Express (VRE) implemented temporary schedule adjustments to accommodate construction associated with the Long Bridge Project—the largest rail expansion effort in the region in generations.
The Long Bridge Project is a key step toward VRE’s vision for 2050, enabling expanded service, increased frequency, and improved service. Hear from VRE CEO Katie Choe as she outlines what this project means for the future of commuter rail in our region below.
What Riders Need to Know
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No trains are being eliminated, morning and evening trains will continue running.
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Some trains now start or end at Alexandria instead of Union Station:
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Review the schedules below for full details.
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Adjustments are temporary and may evolve between 2026 and 2030 as construction progresses.
View up-to-date schedule information on VRE's Schedule page.
More information about the project, including resources for riders, can be found on this fact sheet.
Resources
Transit Benefits
VRE Connections to Metro
VPRA - Changing the Future of Rail, Today
Rider FAQ - Long Bridge Project
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The construction window begins in January 2026 and is expected to continue until the Long Bridge Project is completed in 2030.
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Yes. Morning trains will continue operating, but some will terminate at Alexandria instead of Union Station.
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PM trains will still run, though some will originate at Alexandria rather than Union Station.
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Due to midday storage needs, some trains will originate at Alexandria. Some VRE trains will carry both Fredericksburg and Manassas Line riders from Union Station, L'Enfant, and Crystal City to Alexandria, where transfer is available to your destination line. Check schedules carefully to familiarize yourself with any adjusted departure times.
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In some cases, riders who transfer from VRE to Metro may see their overall commuting cost increase modestly. There are resources available to help offset these costs.
- Work with your employer to ensure you're taking full advantage of any offered transit benefits.
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For passengers whose morning trip will now end at Alexandria instead of L’Enfant or Union Station, you may purchase a Zone 2 ticket instead of Zone 1. The Zone 2 ticket will be accepted on the afternoon trains departing from Union Station or L’Enfant.
This will save money on the VRE portion of your commute and could help offset the cost of continuing your trip on Metro. For example, a passenger who normally purchases a 31-day pass from Spotsylvania to Union Station (Zone 9 to Zone 1) for $354.80, and rides either train 312 or 314 will now be able to purchase a Zone 9 to Zone 2 ticket for $332.60 and save $22.20.
- For riders who purchase monthly passes through CommuterDirect, the Transit Link CardThis link opens a new window may provide some cost benefit. Transit Link Cards are monthly passes for unlimited VRE and Metro trips available from CommuterDirect.com (select "Transit Link Card" under "Date Specific" menu). Note: this cannot be used with the 31-day pass on the VRE mobile app.
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DC noise and vibration regulations prohibit overnight construction. Work must take place in daytime hours, forcing the creation of a midday work window.
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It allows VRE multi-ride ticketholders to use select Amtrak trains to/from Union Station, adding flexibility during construction.
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VRE will post schedules and updates on vre.org, email subscribers directly, and share through social media and station pop-ups.
Contact Us
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Walk-in
VRE Headquarters
1500 King Street Suite 202
Alexandria, VA
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Hours: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Mon-Fri
Call Center
800-743-3873
Mon-Fri: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
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