Amtrak Adds Face Masks Requirement, Including In Virginia And DC

WASHINGTON, DC — Beginning on Monday, Amtrak is requiring passengers to wear face masks while traveling to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, including at DC's Union Station and Virginia stations.

Amtrak customers must wear face masks over the nose and mouth in stations and when riding on trains and transit buses, the rail company announced Thursday.

“The safety of Amtrak’s customers and employees is our top priority, and requiring a facial covering is one more way we can protect everyone, Amtrak President and CEO Bill Flynn said in a statement. “Amtrak continues to operate as an essential service for those who must travel during the public health crisis. Our services will be even more critical as our nation recovers.”

Amtrak has offered a few exceptions, though. Masks can be removed when customers are eating in designated areas, in their private rooms, or with a travel partner in their own pair of seats.

Young children also don’t have to wear face masks.

Additionally, the company recently announced that it would restore the Northeast corridor Acela service on a modified schedule starting June 1.

Here are the Amtrak stations in DC and Virginia:

• Washington, DC Union Station
• Alexandria, VA
• Burke, VA
• Manassas, VA
• Culpeper, VA
• Charlottesville, VA
• Lynchburg, VA
• Roanoke, VA
• Woodbridge, VA
• Quantico, VA
• Fredericksburg, VA
• Ashland, VA
• Richmond, VA Staples Mill Road Station
• Richmond, VA Main Street Station
• Williamsburg, VA
• Newport News, VA
• Petersburg, VA
• Norfolk, VA