CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) – Expanding rail service will benefit the economy, a group of researchers from University of Virginia say.
Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) as part of Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) is working to connect the commonwealth by rail.
The study, completed by a team at UVA’s Weldon Cooper Center for Service found the project is worth the price.
The $4.7 billion project will create more than 30,000 jobs and 6.7 billion in statewide profit.
Researcher Terry Rephann said the demand is there.
“I think if you look at demand, it’s actually skyrocketing in in Virginia,” Rephann said. “Some of it is [clear preferences, change,] changing lifestyles. Young folks are much more keen on public transit.”
Rephann said Charlottesville residents will reap the benefits of this project with the area more accessible with Amtrak.
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