AASHTO Journal - Maryland DOT Helps Seal Regional Commuter Rail Deal

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) – a division of the Maryland Department of Transportation – and Virginia Railway Express (VRE) recently forged a new agreement that allows rail commuters with a weekly, monthly, or 10-trip tickets purchased on either the Maryland Area Rail Commuter (MARC) or VRE system to transfer at Union Station in Washington, D.C., to the other system (MARC-to-VRE or VRE-to-MARC) at no additional cost.

[Above photo by VRE]

“This agreement represents a significant step forward in regional transit integration,” said MTA Administrator Holly Arnold in a statement. “We are not only fostering a more connected and efficient transportation network across our states but fueling economic growth by facilitating easier movement of people, supporting tourism and attracting business to the National Capital Region.”

This new “cross-honor program” enables travelers to seamlessly transfer between MARC and VRE trains on one ticket; simplifying travel logistics and promoting greater accessibility and affordability for the region’s commuters.

[Editor’s note: Many state departments of transportation are looking for ways to expand transit options on the systems they oversee or are connected to. For example, the Maine Department of Transportation is currently conducting a “feasibility study” to evaluate the potential for building new and expanded public transit and active transportation facilities if the Maine Turnpike Authority builds the Gorham Connector roadway.]

It also underscores the commitment of Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland to prioritize the needs of commuters and shape the future of regional mobility, noted VRE CEO Rich Dalton.

“This agreement effectively expands the geographic footprint of commuter rail service in the region and provides passengers with an affordable two-seat ride across state lines,” he said.

“It lays the groundwork for future efforts to better align MARC and VRE operations, which is consistent with our long-range plan to grow VRE from a peak-period, commuter-focused rail service to an all-day, bi-directional transit system that can better meet the transportation needs of a growing region,” Dalton added.

With this new program, MTA and VRE said rail commuters will gain easier access to connections between major National Capital Region urban centers, along with greater flexibility offered by the multiple transportation options available at Union Station.