WTOP radio, 7/28:
To avoid fare hikes, VRE seeks state funding help
WASHINGTON — As the Virginia Department of Transportation gets ready to begin work converting Interstate 66 HOV lanes into Express Lanes, Virginia Railway Express says it needs more money just to stay afloat.
VRE CEO Doug Allen told the Commonwealth Transportation Board that annual operating and capital expenses are rising faster than annual revenues. However, he said the commuter rail can’t keep turning to riders to pay for the costs and local jurisdictions to keep tossing in money.
Instead, officials argued the commonwealth should invest more money into the service since it benefits a wide area and is cheaper than other alternatives.
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