Transportation hub, Amtrak station opening delayed again
Newport News center’s cost will rise by at least $3M
Travelers will have to wait a little longer to catch a ride at the new transportation center in Newport News, as the project has been delayed once again due to supply chain issues.
During a City Council work session Tuesday, Acting Director of Engineering Craig M. Galant revealed the project — slated to open this fall — is not expected to open until next April. The delays will increase the cost of the project by at least $3 million.
The center, under construction on Bland Boulevard between Warwick Boulevard and Interstate 64, will serve as a hub for rail, buses, taxis and airport shuttles. It will replace the undersized Amtrak station on Warwick Boulevard and be more accessible and compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines.
The center was expected to open in August 2022, but the city revealed in October that the project had experienced significant delays and would instead be opening this fall.
On Tuesday, Galant revealed supply chain and materials issues were the reason for the latest delay. He told the Daily Press that there were long lead times for equipment needed for the electrical system of the service facility.
“Since COVID, any kind of electrical components — transformers, switchgear, switchboards — these components are really hard to get to and get,” he said.
Due to the numerous delays of the project, Galant said the overall cost has risen from the initial $47 million to more than $50 million.
Galant detailed the various stages of the project and when they are expected to be complete. Grading, drainage and utilities projects are already finished. The station building, platform and parking is 96% complete and should be finished next month. The final phase, which includes track work and the service facility, is 84% complete and won’t be finished until April 2024.