The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) selected Academy Bus as the official operator for the Tidewater Current, the first Virginia Breeze route to extend service to Virginia Beach and the broader Hampton Roads region. 

With a provider in place, the route is now set to launch in Spring 2026.

“The Tidewater Current is one of the most significant expansions of the Virginia Breeze program to date,” said DRPT Director Tiffany Robinson. “This route will provide meaningful new travel opportunities for Virginians, and we look forward to bringing this service to communities across the Commonwealth.”  

The Tidewater Current 

Designed to strengthen travel options between Coastal Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley, the Tidewater Current will connect key destinations along the I-64 corridor. Planned stops include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Newport News, Williamsburg, New Kent, Richmond International Airport, Richmond Main Street Station, Charlottesville, Staunton, and Harrisonburg.

"We're proud to partner with DRPT on the launch of the Tidewater Current," said Francis Tedesco, president and CEO, Academy Bus. "This new route is an important addition to Virginia's transportation network, and we're looking forward to providing safe, reliable, and comfortable service for riders traveling throughout Hampton Roads and along the I-64 corridor."

Tapping Academy Bus

DRPT officials said Academy Bus was selected for its extensive experience operating large-scale transportation services along the East Coast, including commuter operations for the Maryland Transit Administration and shuttle services for Tri-Rail in Florida. 

The Academy’s recent acquisition of James River Transportation further strengthens its presence and familiarity with Virginia’s travel landscape.