Letters of support

This is a letter written by the legislative delegations of Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

The letter requests the submission of a joint expression of interest for a route “through Bristol” as part of the FRA Corridor Identification and Development Program (CIDP).

The delegations are committed to expanding passenger rail service through the region and aligning with the goals of the Southeast Regional Rail Plan.

They believe that submitting an expression of interest does not constitute a formal application but provides an opportunity for both states to signal a shared vision for the route while continuing to study and work toward a plan.

The response letter from the State of Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner’s Office receiving support for the CIDP.

The state is currently studying passenger rail between major cities and connections throughout the state, and until the study is completed, they can support the southern end terminus at Bristol.

The state is also active with the Southeast Corridor Commission, which is looking at improving passenger and freight rail throughout the southeastern United States.

The letter of support from the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and its Board of Directors.

The Bristol Chamber of Commerce and its Board of Directors is in full support of Bristol’s efforts to extend passenger rail service from Roanoke through Bristol. The Chamber also supports advocating for grant applications, as well as State and Federal funding requests.

The letter of support from the Washington County, Virginia Board of Supervisors. 

The Washington County, Virginia Board of Supervisors write to express the County’s support of the effort to extend passenger rail from Roanoke, VA through Bristol, TN/VA. This support includes advocating for grant applications as well as State and Federal funding requests.

Resolution Endorsing Passenger Rail in Northeast Tennessee. 

The First Tennessee Development District (FTDD) desires to encourage the Federal Rail Administration to strongly consider the prioritization of passenger rail. The impact of such an investment could positively impact the region’s economy, from tourism to manufacturing.