The U.S. Department of Transportation announced that both Amtrak and the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation (USRC) boards unanimously agreed to approve the terms of a renegotiated cooperative agreement restoring strong federal control of the facility. 

The new agreement among USRC, Amtrak, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will expedite restoration efforts, enhance security, and stimulate new economic development.

DOT Taking Control of Union Station

As announced in August, the USDOT is taking the lead role in revitalizing Washington Union Station as a safe and beautiful gateway to the nation’s capital. 

“Washington deserves a world-class rail transportation hub without crime and vagrancy. This revitalization will not only beautify and secure the station but also provide additional space to Amtrak that improves the passenger experience,” said FRA Acting Administrator Drew Feeley. “Reasserting control of the facility will free up Amtrak to focus on its core mission of providing rail transportation.” 

The terms of the cooperative agreement will enable the management changes necessary to:

• Address state-of-good-repair projects.

• Increase revenue through first-class retail, office, and event space. 

• Improve security.

• Enhance multimodal transportation uses. 

• Set the stage for increased private investment. 

• Create a family-friendly environment.

• Provide a gateway to the nation’s capital worthy of this great country. 

“In partnership with DOT and USRC, we’re committed to delivering a safer, cleaner, and more seamless travel experience for every passenger. We’ve already made significant strides — welcoming over a dozen new retailers, bolstering Amtrak Police presence, rolling out station refresh and deep-clean initiatives, and streamlining operations — and this new agreement accelerates that momentum,” said Roger Harris, president of Amtrak.

“We appreciate this strategic decision from the Department of Transportation to designate the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation with direct oversight of the station. USRC is well prepared to deliver benefits for the station, our passengers, the public, and our partners,” said Doug Carr, CEO, Union Station Redevelopment Corporation. “We look forward to ongoing collaboration with the FRA and Amtrak to identify and implement capital improvements related to the station, including its retail operations, as we continue to enhance the Union Station experience for all users.”