The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration recently signed agreements with Delaware Transit Corp. and the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority for the potential future expansion of MARC Train Service to Newark, Del., and Alexandria, Va.
The agreements outline the next steps in the process.
“We must take a regional approach to create a fully connected transportation network, and these agreements will help us deliver seamless transit service across state lines,” Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld said. “Maryland is working to create a transit network that expands opportunities and options for all customers. Collaboration with our partners in Virginia and Delaware is critical in that mission.”
The Maryland Transit Administration and Delaware Transit Corp. will engage with regional stakeholders and agencies regarding advancing MARC service to Newark. These discussions will help determine operational and infrastructure needs.
The Maryland Transit Administration will coordinate with the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, Virginia Railway Express, Amtrak, and CSX to provide MARC run-through service into Virginia. Future service depends on the completion of the Long Bridge project.
Expanding service is part of a plan to transform MARC Train from a local commuter rail into a regional rail provider.
Expansion is included in the MARC Cornerstone Plan and the Maryland State Rail Plan.