Virginia Secures $35M to Modernize Transit in Petersburg and Hampton Roads

Funding will support bus fleet upgrades and infrastructure improvements across the state

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded Virginia nearly $35 million in federal funding to modernize public transit systems, with a focus on upgrading buses and facilities in Petersburg and Hampton Roads. The funding, secured by Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, will allow transit agencies to purchase replacement vehicles and make infrastructure improvements to enhance accessibility and service efficiency for riders.

Why it matters

This investment in Virginia's public transportation network comes at a critical time, as many transit systems across the country face aging fleets and infrastructure challenges. Modernizing buses and facilities can improve rider experience, boost ridership, and support broader sustainability and equity goals in these communities.

The details

The funding will be distributed between two transit agencies in Virginia. Petersburg Area Transit will receive about $23.8 million to purchase replacement buses and construct new operations and maintenance facilities. The Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads will receive approximately $10.6 million to purchase replacement buses for its fleet.

  • The federal funding was announced on February 26, 2026.

The players

Mark R. Warner

U.S. Senator for Virginia.

Tim Kaine

U.S. Senator for Virginia.

Petersburg Area Transit

The public transit agency serving the Petersburg, Virginia region.

Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads

The regional public transit authority serving the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“This funding will help bring state-of-the-art buses to the Petersburg and Hampton Roads regions and improve reliability and accessibility for riders.”

— Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, U.S. Senators for Virginia (Joint statement)

What’s next

The transit agencies will now begin the process of procuring new buses and upgrading their facilities using the federal funding.

The takeaway

This significant investment in Virginia's public transportation infrastructure demonstrates a commitment to modernizing transit systems, improving rider experience, and supporting more sustainable and equitable mobility options across the state.