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September

Thank you for another great set of questions.  We got to as many as we could, but as always there are some we could not answer.  If your question was not answered, please email us at GoTrains@vre.org and put Online Forum in the subject line.  This will then get routed to us and we will do our best to get you a response right away.

Please stay tuned to weather and news reports as Dorian gets closer and stay safe.  We’ll see you back here next month.

Rich, Chris, …et al.

  • Lou from Leeland asks
    In the past month, I have emailed for 2 separate FRC's and have not heard anything from VRE. Come on, it is irritating enough to be delayed and not have them passed out on the train. But then to go through the steps of requesting one from VRE and be left hanging is just really unfriendly.

    VRE Response
    Sorry Lou, just call Brenda at 703-838-5436 and she'll take care of you and then we can research how the original request got missed.

  • EARLY RISER......Sick of the Couple !!!!! from WOODBRIDGE asks
    Can the conductors enforce NO RIDING, SITTING, QUEING, WAITING in the stairway - ON BOTH SIDES OF A CAR??? There is 1 couple who is very friendly familiar with the conductors. They board each day - refuse to take a seat - stand in the stairway on both sides of the same car EVERYDAY. Waiting for both conductors to come and shoot the breeze discuss sports etc. Their goal TO BE THE FIRST OF THE TRAIN EVERY MORNING. The problem ... because they are blocking the stairway, those of us getting off at Alexandria and Crystal City have to endure eye rolling, delays, and rudeness because when we get their attention tap them on the shoulder, they roll their eyes treating us as if we are disturbing them - when the shouldn't be standing there to begin with. This is their daily practice M - F with the goal of being the first at the door when the train pulls into Lenfant. Can you please FIX IT? The shouldn't receive special treatment and need to find a seat like everyone else!

    VRE Response
    Please send the specific train/car info to us at GoTrains@vre.org and the Keolis managers will address it with the specific crew.

  • James from Fredericksburg asks
    In a twitter response from July 2nd, 2014, you indicated that WiFI would be needed onboard to implement PTC, and once PTC was implemented access to WIFI would be possible. Now that PTC has been implemented, when can the riders of the VRE expect to have wifi?

    VRE Response
    That was an overly optimistic prediction James.  While PTC utilizes cellular technology, it also has radio frequency as a back-up for areas where the cellular signal is not strong.  The PTC system is also designed to communicate through very small data packages, so the system does not have the bandwidth to support the quantity of data necessary for an onboard WiFi service.  As it stands, we will still not offer WiFi as the poor cellular coverage on large portions of our territory will prevent a quality experience.

  • CR from Spotsy asks
    Please inform your conductors that all bags should not be on the floor in the upper level. There are some pax's who may need a quick egress and these bags are a safety issue if it's on the floor. I noticed many conductors do not go to the upper level and do not see these bags on the floor.

    VRE Response
    Thanks CR, we'll share this with the conductors.  Bags on the upper level should be on the floor by your feet, or on the rack, but not on the floor blocking egress.

  • Vida from Stafford Virginia asks
    How does bringing a bike on the train work?

    VRE Response
    Full size bicycles are allowed on the last three northbound, the mid-day, any reverse-flow, and the last three southbound trains on each line. More on our bicycle policy can be found on our blog at: https://www.vre.org/about/blog/summer-passenger-information-campaign-vre-onboard-bicycle-policy/.

  • Elizabeth from Stafford VA asks
    I've had an issue for a few weeks trying to buy my tickets on the VRE app. It's not my card, as I have purchased tickets at the kiosks, just the app. Has anyone else reported issues? I just receive a "general" error.

    VRE Response
    We are investigating an error being experienced by multiple users with Transerve cards on VRE Mobile.  According to the developer, our processor needs to work with Transerve to whitelist the new batch of cards.  That process is underway.  In the meantime, we can process payments manually at our office for mobile purchases and push the tickets to your phone.  Just call in at 703-684-1001 for assistance.

  • Carlanda from Woodbridge, VA asks
    How do you decide when to send a text message about a train's status on the Fredericksburg line? I often drive to another station to catch the train thinking I'll miss it at my usual station only to find out that the train is delayed.

    VRE Response
    The first place to always check for train status is our real time map at https://www.vre.org/service/status/, this shows GPS train location and basic delay. Trains on the Fredericksburg line have padding in their schedule and can make up 10 minutes of delay time. When we know that a train will not make up that time, we will issue an alert message.

  • RidesALot from Manassas asks
    Since some stations offer WiFi at the stations, is this something you would consider at all stations? It would really help riders stay better informed during delays.

    VRE Response
    While some of our vendors have provided WiFi at staffed stations, VRE has no plans to provide WiFi at the other platforms.

  • Mary from Burke, VA asks
    Back in the spring, at the Meet the Management at Union Station, I pointed out to one of the VRE representatives the filthy stairs to platforms 23/24 and 25/26. The gentleman promised that he would talk to the person responsible. It is now several months later and the same piles of dirt are still in the corners of the stairs. Not to mention the sticky substance on the doors at the top of the stairs. Would someone please get in touch with whoever is responsible for cleaning and get them to actually clean?

    VRE Response
    Thanks Mary.  Kim, the Amtrak Station Manager will address this with her co-workers at Amtrak.

  • Dave from Woodbridge asks
    When will the Woodbridge platform be extended?

    VRE Response
    It is in the list of upcoming projects Dave, but behind Quantico and Potomac Shores.  We can't give an estimated timeframe at this time.

  • Terry from Fredericksburg asks
    Is there any consideration for continuing the discounted Amtrak step ups beyond 09/30 to reduce congestion on the VRE trains? Thank you.

    VRE Response
    At this time, we do not anticipate discounting the Amtrak step-up tickets beyond September 30th.

  • Nate from Manassas Park VA asks
    Any plans to extend the L'Enfant platform or at least otherwise address the issue of needing to walk in the mud/grass/rain almost daily? The narrow cement, useless glass walls, and wonky placement of benches create significant choke points for flow and many people are forced to walk through the mud and rain. It also creates large choke points near the ticket vendors so you have a hard time getting through the crowd.

    VRE Response
    Initially, we were going to simply pour a wide sidewalk in the grass area to help alleviate congestion, but due to the volume of passengers expected to utilize the area, we need to design the widening as part of the overall platform.  Our Projects Group is working with an engineering consultant on a task order for the design.  The actual task order work should begin within 60 days with construction tentatively scheduled for Q2, 2020.

  • Mandy from Burke asks
    Why are the texts about trains arriving late inconsistent? Yesterday there were several texts about manassas 332 being late and today there were none (yet I found when I arrived that the train was indeed late again, but it was announced at the station not over text). The inconsistency is very inconvenient.

    VRE Response
    Great question Mandy.  We apologize for what appears to be inconsistent messaging, but there is a reason.  Train 332 uses the same equipment as our first northbound train, 322.  322 goes to Union Station, then returns to Broad Run as 321 where it turns again to head north as 332.

    Yesterday, the first leg (Train 322 ) was delayed with PTC issues, which then delayed 321, and subsequently 332.  We knew early on that 332 would be delayed, so we were able to be more proactive in the messaging.  This morning 322 and 321 were both on time, the delay only came during the turn as 332,  therefore we did not have any advance warning of an imminent delay, so the messaging was targeted to the passengers already waiting for 332.

  • Sean from Spotsylvania, VA asks
    Most mornings in the summer it seems like the trains are as cold as a meat locker. I frequently have to put on a jacket, and I see others breaking out blankets. Can a happier temperature be found?

    VRE Response
    The trains need to be able to maintain a comfortable temperature, even with as many as 1,000 riders.  Keeping the temperature cool with the doors opening and closing is a challenge, so if you board at the earlier stations it may feel colder, but as more passengers board, the temperature should become more comfortable. The circulation fans are on the upper level, so it may be more comfortable if you sit on the lower level.

  • John from Alexandria, VA asks
    I understand VRE is currently working on an agreement for Franconia/Springfield riders to pay the same as Metro riders for parking and that VRE hopes to have the agreement in place sometime in September. Any update?

    VRE Response
    We hope to have the agreement signed this week and will post details on our website and through Train Talk as soon as this happens.

  • Terrell from Fredericksburg, VA asks
    Can VRE work with the various stations locations about reminding customers that they should not smoke, and in particular, vape on the train platforms? This is becoming a large problem, especially at Crystal City at the far end, where smokers converge. A number of riders are coughing and having to use clothes to try and filter the air. Thank you!

    VRE Response
    We'll put some reminders out as part of our standard communications on Train Talk and RIDE Magazine and make sure signage at the stations is both in place and clear.  Smoking/Vaping is permitted on the 100 feet at the north end of each platform.

  • from asks
    Why does it take more than 1 minute for VRE to update the status of a train. I am waiting for the 7:44 train at Fredericksburg and it is 7:50. There train status reads that it is on time how can that be true?

    VRE Response
    If a train is running a few minutes behind schedule at midline stations but is likely to make up time as the trip progresses, we may not change the status to "Delayed" because we don't want passengers at the stations further north to miss a train, assuming it will arrive late.  If the delay is one where we are certain it will persist, we will post the status change to delayed with the estimated delay time.

  • David from Early Trains asks
    Can VRE please work with CSX to have the 1st trains on the Fred Line and Manassas Line departure times moved up so they depart each morning 10-15 minutes earlier. It really makes sense for the Fred Line since the 302 is right behind the 300 train.

    VRE Response
    Sorry David, no immediate plans to begin service any earlier.

     

  • Dave from Alexandria asks
    Is it possible to get more stools for the Alexandria station? Half the time they are missing and there are only 2 conductors that carry them. Not all the trains end up stopping in the same spots.

    VRE Response
    If you are boarding at Alexandria, there will always be a conductor at the northernmost car with a step box.  The Amtrak staff at the station try to keep step boxes distributed down the full length of the platform in case you board at a car not staffed by a conductor.  Usually there are 20+ step boxes on the platform, but if you notice a shortage, please let us know and we'll ask the Amtrak station staff to address.  If you are detraining at Alexandria, every VRE car has a step box but the best way to make sure you have assistance would be to detrain from a car staffed by a conductor.

  • Mark from Bristow VA asks
    What steps is VRE taking to have the old Don's Depot trailer removed from the sidewalk at Broad Run as we approach over 10 months of abandonment? Thanks

    VRE Response
    We have been working with the owners to have the trailer removed, no confirmed date on when it will happen.

  • Sue from Burke, VA asks
    Really like the app but it now opens to the buy tickets page every time I open the app. I thought it was because my previous card had expired but even with the new card entered, still opens to the buy ticket page. Anything I can do to change that?

    VRE Response
    We are working with the app developer to have it open to My Tickets like it did before the latest update.  A fix is in process.

  • MW from Fredricksburg asks
    Why is it you have the ac cranked up so much, especially in the morning. It is pretty cold on the train, people are bringing blankets and other items to keep them warm. Would it be possible to adjust the ac depending on the time of day or the obvious amount of people that are cold trying to sleep.

    VRE Response
    Our car’s thermostats are always set between 70-74 degrees. Because car doors open frequently, it is difficult to keep the temperatures constant. The blowers in the upper level cannot be adjusted and they are there only to circulate fresh air. If you are sitting upstairs and are cold you may wish to sit downstairs where the blowing is less pronounced.

  • Jon from Manassas, VA asks
    Love the VRE. I wish there were two more options for ridership...late morning and later evening. Is this something you feel has the demand for such that you would consider adding the option?

    VRE Response
    Thanks for the questions Jon.  We don't have any immediate plans to extend service, but we keep all options open if the demand warrants the change and we can work it into our operating agreements with the host railroads.

  • Rachel from Rippon asks
    Who can I contact when feeling uncomfortable/unsafe with fellow passenger actions when I don't necessarily feel comfortable telling a conductor?

    VRE Response
    Send us a note to GoTrains@vre.org and put ATTN: Safety/Security in the subject line.  We'll have the appropriate individual contact you.

  • Suzanne from Woodbridge, Va asks
    I submitted a question a few months ago about issues with FRCs not being handed out consistently on late trains. You responded I should submit the request online. I did and received no response. Do you not inform people of the adjudication of their requests?

    VRE Response
    Thanks for the follow-up Suzanne.  We have asked our GoTrains Administrator to research your original request to see why and how it was missed.  In the meantime, please drop us a note with your contact information at GoTrains@vre.org and put Online Forum in the subject line.  We'll have someone follow-up with you today.

  • James from Burke va asks
    What is status of extending platform rolling road station been two years? Nothing performed? Why? Thanks for your time.

    VRE Response
    From the Project Manager:

    VRE continues to work with our partners at Norfolk Southern and the County for required easements and permits. Meanwhile we have completed the design and have added significant station rehabilitation work to enhance the overall project.  Stay tuned to the Projects page at VRE.org for updates as we get them.

  • Matt from Fredericksburg, VA asks
    Good morning! Is there anywhere I can read the rules around train horns at Leeland station? All I've heard is pure conjecture and I'd like some hard facts. I've heard they don't blow at night but sometimes I'll hear them at 2am. Usually in pairs, but sometimes two short and sometimes two long? Is this for the station? If so, why would they need horns during hours the VRE isn't in operation and there couldn't be anyone there? Thanks!

    VRE Response
    CSX rules - Engine horn will be sounded with 2 long sounds approaching passenger stations between 0430 and 2330. At all other times, the horn will not be sounded at passenger station unless people are present or as otherwise required by Operating Rules. 

  • Will from King George asks
    More of a comment here - I would like to say delays appear to be less frequent these days (post PTC implementation) and no matter what, riding any VRE train sure beats sitting in traffic or even moving and driving in traffic on I-95. It's beyond me why anyone would complain about the service, the people are friendly (the conductors and VRE staff as well), we have restrooms on the train, they are air conditioned, we can eat and drink on the train, why would I want to do anything else? The VRE keeps me sane and my family appreciates that! Thank you to all of the employees and contractors that run the VRE!!!

    VRE Response
    Thank you Will, we appreciate the comments. 

    We know this has been a frustrating year with the lower than normal On Time Performance, but we continue to work through the issues and we have seen improvements.  While there are still occasional PTC issues out there, the resulting delays are shorter and less frequent.  Last week, on the Fredericksburg Line, we had only 4 late trains and those were all on Friday afternoon as a result of the heat related speed restrictions.  We appreciate everyone's patience getting this far through the implementation of PTC and then the warmer than usual summer.

     

    CH PR

  • Johnny from Woodbridge, VA asks
    I use to buy a VRE ticket for a one day fare, it would last me 24 hours, now it only last for a round trip, why the change? My subsidy runs out before the month is over.

    VRE Response
    The Day Pass expires at midnight of the day it is validated.

     

  • Norrey from Springfield asks
    So are we going back to paying for extra for parking at Franconia/Springfield again next week? You guys talk a lot saying you are going to talk to yadda yadda yadda but never follow up with the results of that talking.

    VRE Response
    We do have a solution worked out with WMATA (Metro) and hope to have the agreement signed this week.  It will not be in place by Monday, but as soon as we have the details, we will post the process on our website for how VRE Riders can qualify for the lower parking fees at Franconia/Springfield.

Welcome to the September version of the Online Forum.  Joining us in studio today are representatives from Keolis, Amtrak, and CSX.

The end of summer (and hopefully the heat related speed restrictions) also means the peak of the hurricane season, and the first major storm which could impact our area is on it’s way.

VRE and its host railroads are monitoring the progress and strength of Hurricane Dorian as it continues moving up the East Coast. Forecasts currently show the storm passing by the region mid-Friday, well off the coast. While it appears that the hurricane’s impact to our service will be minimal, we will keep watching and communicate to everyone if something changes.

Let’s get on to the questions…