The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) announced it has approved new policies that change the way the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) is funded and reform the governance and funding of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA).

These policies are a result of legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2023.

The goal of the legislation was to ensure state funds are allocated effectively and bring more accountability to the performance of both systems.

What's Next

VRE will now be allocated funding based on metrics that are specific to the commuter rail system’s needs.

State oversight of WMATA will increase, and the amount the Commonwealth can provide them in operating and capital assistance is capped.

These changes are supported by the General Assembly, the Governor, the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC), VRE, and WMATA.

“VRE and WMATA provide essential services to the people who live and work in the region,” said Jennifer DeBruhl, director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT). “The reforms implemented by CTB will lead to improved transparency, accountability, and financial responsibility. I am proud of the collaborative efforts that led to these policies. Northern Virginia’s transit needs are constantly evolving, and our policies must evolve with it.”