Bringing enhanced passenger rail service to Virginia residents may cost less than previously expected, according to The Daily Press.

Improving transportation in Virginia is key to making the state more marketable to new businesses and residents, both of which are vital to improving the state's economy and improving property values.

"Norfolk Southern Corp.'s latest estimate for bringing passenger rail service to South Hampton Roads offers a welcome bit of cheer for regional leaders who have struggled to keep federal and state officials focused on the project.

Earlier this month, the railroad company said its freight line could be upgraded to handle passenger trains for just $75 million, well below earlier estimates from the state.

Numbers used by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation include passenger stations and other supplementary expenditures not in the railroad's figures. But Norfolk Southern's analysis proves that service to the Southside is both attainable and relatively cheap.

That doesn't mean it's a done deal. There are $102 billion in projects across the country competing for $8 billion in federal stimulus funds. If South Hampton Roads is going to get its share, leaders will have to make the case and be ready to listen to any reasonable suggestions on how to accomplish their goal."

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