On October 3rd NRV Rail 2020 hosted a reception coordinated by the Blacksburg Partnership public-private coalition to extend passenger rail service from Roanoke to Christiansburg. Approximately 75 leaders from across the region attended to show support for the multi-year effort. The Virginia Secretary of Transportation, Ms. Shannon Valentine, was the keynote speaker at the event and addressed the audience about progress to date. While there were no major announcements regarding expansion, based on the Secretary's remarks it is readily apparent that this is a priority of Governor Northam's administration. She spoke to progress being made on a major rail project in Northern Virginia, Long Bridge, that will add capacity to both freight and passenger service to the entire statewide network. Once that project is solidified, it appears there will be opportunities for passenger rail expansion in Virginia. The Secretary complimented the New River Valley on the public-private partnership approach and encouraged continued advocacy to help ensure local support remains paramount.