Transferring between the MARC and VRE railway systems is now free for many passengers, thanks to a collaboration between The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) and Virginia Railway Express (VRE).
The plan to enhance commuter connectivity and efficiency across the region is made possible because of an agreement between Maryland and Virginia. Effective immediately, passengers with a weekly, monthly, or 10-trip ticket purchased on the MARC or VRE system to Union Station can use that ticket to transfer to the other system (MARC to VRE or vice versa) to continue their trip at no additional cost.
“This agreement represents a significant step forward in regional transit integration,” said Holly Arnold, Maryland Transit Administrator. “We are not only fostering a more connected and efficient transportation network across our states but fueling economic growth by facilitating easier movement of people, supporting tourism and attracting business to the National Capital Region.”
The goal is to simplify travel, enabling passengers to seamlessly transfer between the MARC and VRE trains on one ticket. The collaboration expands accessibility, flexibility, and affordability for commuters in the region. The agreement was announced at Washington, D.C.’s Union Station last week.
“This agreement effectively expands the geographic footprint of commuter rail service in the region and provides passengers with an affordable two-seat ride across state lines,” said Rich Dalton, CEO of VRE in a statement. “It lays the groundwork for future efforts to better align MARC and VRE operations, which is consistent with our long-range plan to grow VRE from a peak-period, commuter-focused rail service to an all-day, bi-directional transit system that can better meet the transportation needs of a growing region.”
The new program gives passengers easy access to connection between major urban centers, and the massive flexibility offered by the many transportation options available at Union Station. Riders can more easily reach employment centers, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and the many tourism and cultural landmarks the region offers.
For more information on how the collaborative transit agreement can enhance rider’s commutes, please visit this link for MTA schedules, or this link for VRE information.
