Delays Becoming Worse On VRE Trains: Report

BURKE, VA — VRE officials are pointing to an increasing presence of CSX freight trains as a reason for worsening delays on the Virginia Railway Express commuter train.

According to the Washington Post, there have been increasing delays on VRE and Maryland's MARC in recent months. The Post says 57 percent of VRE trains arrived within five minutes of scheduled times in April and May, compared to 82 percent in April and May 2018.

More CSX freight trains are reportedly running in the DC region, and some commuter lines use CSX tracks. Agreements between VRE/MARC and CSX for use of the tracks determine how many commuter trains can operate trips daily and prevent the service from expanding.

On-time performance can vary day to day due to a number of issues. In recent daily performance reports, VRE identified various causes of delays: freight trains, equipment issues, heat restrictions, following Amtrak trains, and following other delayed VRE trains.

Riders aren't shy about expressing frustrations regarding on-time performances. VRE's Facebook post announcing fare increases drew numerous comments about the quality of service. Fares increased by an average 3 percent starting on July 1, 2019, with VRE citing higher operational costs.