How close is Roanoke to regaining public rail service? Looks like at least four to five years, according to Kevin Page, the Chief of Rail Transportation for the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation. Page spoke last week at a forum hosted by State Senator John Edwards, held, appropriately, at Roanoke’s former passenger train depot, now the O. Winston Link Museum and a visitor’s center. Dozens showed up to hear Page and Edwards; some were nostalgic about the days when they used to ride trains from Roanoke to points elsewhere.
Page said it was a matter of funding and demand, noting that track work on lines, owned for the most part by Norfolk Southern and CSX, are part of the equation. Public money put into any improvements or the adding of side railings would give the Commonwealth and the federal government some more influence over how those lines are shared by freight carriers and by passenger rail service. “How many people want passenger rail service here in Roanoke?” asked Edwards; his answer came in the form of loud applause.
Page said there are “sufficient” right of ways in place that could support a public rail link, possibly to existing Amtrak service in Lynchburg, by 2015, which is when Edwards has said previously that funds might be available from the General Assembly. “We hope that we’ll be able to tap in to [that],” added Page of the existing railroad track system. He noted a “close relationship,” with freight carriers such as Norfolk Southern.
“Finding a dedicated revenue source out of Richmond is another hurdle to overcome,” said Page, who fielded questions from the audience when his formal presentation was over. Many local governments, including those in the valley, have passed resolutions supporting rail service. He noted that high-speed service isn’t feasible with the current track system, some of which was built more than 100 years ago.
Now the trick is paying for it, and sustaining passenger levels. “Roanoke must have the patronage in place,” warned Page. Until the train comes, he urged Roanokers to consider “connectivity options” that include Greyhound bus service to the Lynchburg Amtrak terminal. “It will take some time, but we will get there,” promised Page.
By Gene Marrano [email protected]
such interesting work and reporting keep it up.It,s awesome.