Norfolk rail line to cost more, amount unknown

By News in Brief
Published: October 27, 2008

NORFOLK—Norfolk’s starter light rail line will cost more to build than projected, but officials say they can’t yet pinpoint the increases.

The rail line will run from Eastern Virginia Medical Center to the Virginia Beach border. It was budgeted at $232.1 million and planned to open in early 2010.

But Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation Director Matthew Tucker says the project, like construction projects around the country, is facing rising costs. Tucker says the higher costs are reflective of the market and not poor business decisions.

Hampton Roads Transit President Michael Townes says the agency will have a better handle on the cost increase and construction schedule in mid-November.