Opportunity
Federal Register #Docket No. AB 1349 (Sub-No. 1X)
Notice of Rail Service Discontinuance in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, VA
Posted
March 27, 2026
Identifier
Docket No. AB 1349 (Sub-No. 1X)
This notice from the Surface Transportation Board addresses a petition by Buckingham Branch Railroad Company to discontinue rail service in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, VA. - Government Buyer: - Surface Transportation Board (Department of Transportation) - OEMs and Vendors: - No OEMs or vendors are mentioned; this is not a procurement for goods or services - Products/Services Requested: - No products or services are being procured - Unique or Notable Requirements: - The discontinuance is due to the U.S. Navy's intent to acquire adjacent property for national security, making continued rail operation unfeasible - The notice outlines the regulatory process for discontinuance, employee protections, and the opportunity for offers of financial assistance - Locations: - Rail line in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, VA (owned by Norfolk Southern Railway Company, operated by Buckingham Branch Railroad Company) - Adjacent property (Parcel 4B) to be acquired by the U.S. Navy
Description
The Surface Transportation Board has issued a notice regarding Buckingham Branch Railroad Company's petition to discontinue service over approximately 4.2 miles of rail line in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, Virginia. The rail line is owned by Norfolk Southern Railway Company and operated by Buckingham Branch under lease since 2018. The discontinuance is related to the U.S. Navy's desire to acquire adjacent property for national security purposes, making continued operation economically unfeasible. The Board is instituting an exemption proceeding with a final decision expected by June 26, 2026, and any affected employees will be protected under established labor conditions.