A couple of news items pertaining to northern Virginia…
CSX Capacity Expansion
Over Memorial Day Weekend, CSX was scheduled to install a new bridge over the NS (Norfolk Southern) mainline in Alexandria, VA impacting VRE (Virginia Railway Express) service. The VRE website explains:
CSX has been working to install a third main line track between Alexandria and Franconia/Springfield (construction can be seen from the East side of the train). Just south of Alexandria, the tracks go over the Norfolk Southern tracks using two bridges. One bridge has one track. While the second bridge has the space for two tracks, it can only support one track. Construction on a new bridge has been taking place alongside the tracks (this construction can be seen from the West side of the train). CSX will cut out the old bridge and slide the new bridge into place. Ultimately, the third track will help ease capacity constraints on the Fredericksburg Line by allowing passenger trains to pass slower freight trains in the area.
The Fullertography photoblog has been providing construction updates.
Manassas Railway Festival
Norfolk Southern may have canceled their awesome steam excursion program, but they’re not complete party poopers. In addition to running their office car special around with antique f-unit diesel-electrics, they also have a bluegrass band on their payroll. Named the Norfolk Southern Lawmen, the group plays their fair share of train songs. The NS Lawmen are scheduled to perform at this year’s Manassas Heritage Railway Festival.
In addition to the Norfolk Southern Lawmen, the June 5, 2010 railroad festival will also feature VRE excursion trains, model train displays, and more. Check out this website for more information.