It’s been nearly six years since former Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe broke ground for a new Virginia Railway Express station at Potomac Shores.
To date, nothing has been built where the station is supposed to go, on a bluff overlooking the Potomac River along VRE’s Fredericksburg line, between the Quantico and Rippon stations. During a meeting of the OmniRide Board of Commissioners on Thursday, Dec. 5, Maureen Caddigan pressed acting VRE CEO Rich Dalton on the progress of the new station.
Dalton told the commission the station is still in the design phase, essentially where it’s been since we broke the news in March 2018 the project would move ahead after years of delay. Local officials blamed the feds for the delay, for not funding the construction of a third track from Arkendale, north into Prince William County, which would have separated VRE trains from CSX freight trains that own the existing tracks.
Dalton said they’re about 60% through the design phase of the project, and that expects the agency will solicit construction bids next summer 2020, and for a construction contract to be awarded by winter 2021.
“We anticipate it will go relatively quickly from the 60% side to the 90% side,” said Dalton.
Caddigan is retiring from the Prince William Board of County Supervisors, and from her seat on the OmniRide Commission.
“I’ll be relying on [incomding Supervisors Margaret Franklin (Woodbridge District) and Andrea Bailey (Potomac District)], they both share Potomac shores, and I’m going to urge them to stay on it,” said Caddigan.
Potomac Shores is a planned mixed-use community near Dumfries that includes homes, a planned business district and hotel, and a golf course. Its developer, California-based SunCal is slated to fund the construction of the new station that now has a price tag that ballooned to over $20 million since the project’s groundbreaking in 2014.
Recent Stories

Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.

Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has