Norf. could get Amtrak line to Richmond

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim said Thursday he is very encouraged by the state's action to revive rail passenger service in South Hampton Roads.

Amtrak already operates passenger trains in Newport News, but other cities could soon get on board. Tracks near Harbor Park may take rail passengers from Norfolk to Richmond in three years.

"This is a win-win situation for everybody," said Fraim.

Fraim refers to more than $90 million in state funds earmarked Wednesday for infrastructure improvements along a CSX Norfolk Southern line that parallels route 460.

Jennifer Pickett of the Department of Rail and Public Transportation said "the funding's now in place to improve the rail line and we will be working with Amtrak and the railroads to plan for operations."

The plan would bring rail service back to southside Hampton Roads.

The mayor thinks the passenger trains would not only connect Norfolk and Richmond, but other places as well.

"It's not just going to Richmond," said Fraim. "It's going to Washington and we hope that moment when it arrives here you'll be able to stay in the same seat, to Richmond, Washington and then onto Boston, if you want."

"I think it's wonderful," said Resident Janet Janata.

Janata is sold on the plan. "I just think traveling by train is a very romantic thing to do. Here to Richmond? Oh yes, definitely yes, I would."

But Janata admits she loves taking the train.