By Robert B. Case, PhD, PE
Chief Transportation Engineer
The new multi-modal transportation center in Newport News began serving the region on Thursday August 22, 2024 when the 12:33pm train arrived.
The previous station was located on Warwick Blvd near the James River Bridge. The new station is located at 500 Bland Blvd near the Newport News / Williamsburg International airport. At the end of October, Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) will modify route 108 (Warwick Blvd, Bland Blvd, Jefferson Ave) to serve the station providing multimodal connections for travelers.
According to Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones, “The Newport News Transportation Center is a landmark achievement for our city and a testament to the power of collaboration. This state-of-the-art facility not only enhances our region’s connectivity but also reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience for all.” (https://media.amtrak.com/2024/08/amtrak-virginia-to-begin-service-to-new-transportation-center-in-newport-news/)
According to the above Amtrak article, “Train status and boarding information will be available through the state-of-the-art Passenger Information Display System (PIDS). The PIDS communicates train status, origin and destination stations, and other information and features bright, new LCD displays that are easier to read and will synchronize audio and visual messaging in the station.”
The station features a covered platform and well-lit waiting area.
Of the $53m station cost, approximately half ($25.7m) was allocated to the project by the HRTPO board.
Currently, weekday trains typically depart the Newport News station (NPN) for Richmond, Washington DC, and Boston (serving stations in between) at:
And weekday trains from the northeast typically arrive at the NPN station at:
- 11:27am (from Boston)
- 8:19pm (from New York)
Check Amtrak.com for details.