Thelma Drake, director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, hopes that the Richmond-Norfolk passenger train, slated to start running in three years, will be as successful as the new Lynchburg-Washington service. The Commonwealth Transportation Board has approved $93 million to fund needed track upgrades. "We think it's money well spent," said Drake, "And we think we'll have Lynchburg-like success."

The number of passengers using the Amtrak service launched in October out of Lynchburg has far exceeded expectations, topping its annual ridership goal in just six months.

Increased transportation options between metropolitan areas benefit homeowners by making commuting and recreational travel easier and more pleasant. Prospective homebuyers take such options into consideration, and homes close to transportation hubs may see a bump in value as a result.

Read more in The Virginian-Pilot....