Brady PieperVirginia is planning approximately $7 billion in investments for the state’s rail and public transportation services.
The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) has unveiled the draft fiscal year (FY) 2026-2031 Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP), a new vision for the state’s transit systems and freight and passenger rail service. The proposed program outlines the state’s strategic funding priorities for the next six years while focusing on the expansion and maintenance of essential transportation infrastructure.
In accordance with state law, the draft plan allocates public funding to transportation projects over six fiscal years. While the plan features projects funded by metropolitan planning organizations and regional authorities, the state prioritizes funding for the maintenance of assets, such as infrastructure and bridges.
For FY26, DRPT’s proposal features significant funding for local transit services, regional rail systems and state-supported passenger and freight rail projects. These investments are designed to improve the efficiency, accessibility and sustainability of Virginia’s transportation network.
The proposed plan would invest the largest portion of funding, $442 million, to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. The regional authority maintains, develops, finances and operates the transportation system of Washington, D.C.
$332 million would be set aside for the state’s public transportation services and infrastructure, including support for local and regional public transportation providers and projects that grow bus and transit services to Virginia communities.
Another regional agency, the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, will receive $232 million to modernize and transform passenger rail services throughout the state.
The draft SYIP will designate some funding, $20 million and $17 million, to support the DRPT’s rail initiatives and the Virginia Railway Express, respectively. The Virginia Railway Express works to maintain, operate and expand passenger rail services, including the development of new routes and service enhancements across the state.
All eligible projects in the final SYIP will be included in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, in accordance with federal laws and regulations.
The public, including community stakeholders, residents and related businesses, is encouraged to comment on the draft SYIP. The Commonwealth Transportation Board, which oversees transportation funding, planning and project selection, will host nine public meetings to collaborate with the businesses, communities and other stakeholders.
Concluding rounds of public collaboration, DPRT will present the revised six-year plan to the Commonwealth Transportation Board for final approval or adjustment. All eligible funding in the SYIP will become available to applicant organizations when the next fiscal year begins, July 1.
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