Updated 18th October 2025- The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) has moved the project into the in-construction phase, issuing a limited Notice to Proceed in June 2025 for the “shoofly” temporary track that will reroute trains around the work zone. The total budget is now listed at approximately $405 million, slightly less than the earlier contract figure. Construction of the new 0.6-mile flyover and associated infrastructure is underway in a live-track environment where freight and passenger trains continue to operate. Community outreach also ramps up, with a Community Advisory Group being activated in August 2025 to guide local engagement.
Published 18th July 2025- The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) has awarded a $414 million contract to the FlatironDragados-Herzog joint venture for the construction of the Franconia-Springfield Rail Bypass project. The project aims to eliminate a longstanding bottleneck south of the Franconia-Springfield station — a crucial point for both freight and passenger trains traveling between Fredericksburg and Washington, D.C.
Eliminating Bottlenecks and Boosting Reliability
Currently, passenger trains must cross over freight lines at grade level to switch track sides — a setup that often causes delays and congestion. The new bypass will include a 1.4-mile stretch of new passenger rail track, featuring a 0.6-mile-long flyover bridge to safely carry passenger trains over CSX freight tracks.
Construction will begin with a temporary shoofly track to maintain train movement during the build. This detour will allow uninterrupted service while crews construct the main bypass bridge and new rail line.
FlatironDragados and Herzog Lead the Build
The FlatironDragados-Herzog JV brings extensive rail construction experience from projects across North America. Jim Schneiderman, Executive Vice President at FlatironDragados, emphasized the project’s importance: “This partnership leverages expertise developed on projects throughout North America. We’re proud to deliver safer, more efficient rail service by reducing congestion and improving reliability.”
Scott Norman, Executive Vice President of Herzog, added: “Herzog is proud to work alongside our partners at FlatironDragados and VPRA. We look forward to delivering this project on time and on budget.”
Also Read: Skanska-FlatironDragados JV Awarded $1B Contract for Long Bridge North Rail Project
Critical Link for Virginia’s Rail Future
The Franconia-Springfield Bypass is closely coordinated with the Franconia to Lorton Third Track Project, which together will boost capacity for passenger trains and enhance safety through this busy corridor. Once complete, the bypass will separate freight and passenger operations — improving on-time performance for both. The project reflects Virginia’s broader momentum in infrastructure and industrial investment, as seen in initiatives like AstraZeneca’s $4.5 billion expansion of its manufacturing facility in the state.
Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2025 with completion targeted for 2029. The project is a collaboration among VPRA, CSXT, Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express, and other key agencies.
Franconia-Springfield Rail Bypass: Fact Sheet
- Project: Franconia-Springfield Rail Bypass
- Location: South of Franconia-Springfield Station, Virginia
- Length: 1.4 miles of new passenger rail, including a 0.6-mile flyover bridge
- Contract Value: $414 million
- JV Partners: FlatironDragados and Herzog
- Client: Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA)
- Purpose: Separate freight and passenger rail to reduce delays and improve safety
- Start Date: July 2025
- Expected Completion: 2029
- Key Coordination: Franconia to Lorton Third Track Project, CSXT, Amtrak, VRE
