Posted March 26, 2025

Upgrades improve accessibility and communications

RICHMOND — To provide the most up-to-date train status information to customers, the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA), Amtrak, and the City of Richmond have collaborated on the installation of a Passenger Information Display System (PIDS) at the Amtrak Station on Main Street in Richmond, Va. 

The system provides customers with real-time information on train arrivals and departures and track assignments in audible and visual formats.  This system can also announce essential updates information during service disruptions. PIDS is equipped with an adaptive sound system that adjusts to different environmental noise levels. This allows the system to detect ambient noise and alter the volume of announcements during special events at the station. 

Amtrak Virginia trains offer direct service to the Main Street Station to and from Newport News, Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and as far north as Boston. The station is on the National Historic Landmark and located in Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom district. 

Other Virginia stations are equipped with PIDS including Lynchburg, Newport News, Norfolk, Petersburg, Williamsburg, and the Staples Mill Road Station in Richmond, Va.

“Bringing PIDS to Main Street Station is a huge benefit to our passengers,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA.  “Information is key in our industry and providing necessary train information in a timely manner will only enhance the customer experience.”

“Improving accessibility across all modes of transportation throughout the city is one of the most important objectives of the Office of Equitable Transit and Mobility, states Dironna Moore Clarke, DPW Deputy Director.  

“Amtrak is committed to providing timely and accurate customer communications across all channels – in stations, on board trains, via our mobile apps and our various web-based platforms,” said Dr. David Handera, Amtrak Vice President, Accessibility, Stations & Facilities CAO. “Thanks to VPRA, the City of Richmond and our dedicated, multi-departmental team for this modern and accessible system that will enhance the travel experience.”

Amtrak collaborated closely with the City of Richmond throughout the design process to ensure the system met the architectural standards of Main Street Station.  City officials provided valuable input during both the design and installation phases to ensure the new system preserved the station’s historical significance.

Plans are underway to install PIDS at the Amtrak Station in Ashland, Va.

About Virginia Passenger Rail Authority

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority was established in 2020 to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth. VPRA is committed to delivering and expanding its state-supported Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service.  The Commonwealth of Virginia first launched state-supported service in 2009 with one roundtrip between Washington, DC and Lynchburg, VA.  Since that time, the Commonwealth’s service has grown to include eight roundtrips daily with stops at 17 stations along four corridors.  For more information, please visit vapassengerrailauthority.org.

About Amtrak®

Amtrak is seizing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform rail and Retrain Travel. By modernizing, enhancing, and expanding trains, stations, and infrastructure, Amtrak is meeting the rising demand for train travel. Amtrak offers unforgettable experiences to more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada. Learn more at Amtrak.com, download the Amtrak app, connect with us on X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and join Amtrak Guest Rewards to start earning points toward Amtrak reward travel, upgrades, gift cards and more.

City of Richmond – Main Street Station

Main Street Station (MSS) is owned and operated by the Department of Public Works. Built in 1901, the station is centrally located in the heart of the city and is a historic transportation hub offering a blend of modern amenities, historic charm, and classic, stunning architectural design. It features a grand central atrium, intricate stonework, head house, train shed, outdoor space (and patio), and a distinctive clock tower creating a lasting impression of Richmond along the I-95 corridor. This historic venue offers a unique setting for both public and private events. It provides Virginia and the northeast corridor a unique world-class event space that includes 47,000 square feet enclosed in glass, providing breathtaking views of downtown Richmond. It’s a top venue for weddings and events, appearing on numerous “best of” listings. Main Street Station serves as a key point for both Amtrak and local commuter rail services. The station is a vital connection to the region’s transportation network which include partnerships with bus services, such as, GRTC Pulse Bus Rapid Transit, Greyhound and various Megabus services. It also offers bike paths connecting to the Virginia Capital Trail. Described as an “architectural gem” by the United States Postal Service, MSS was selected and featured on a postage stamp!