In a move aimed at elevating safety standards and improving the travel experience, new Passenger Information Display Systems (PIDS) have been installed at key Virginia train stations, including Ashland and Richmond. These modern updates promise real-time train data accessible through visual displays and audible alerts, addressing longstanding issues faced by passengers and station volunteers alike.
Historically, travelers at Ashland relied on volunteers with binoculars to determine train arrivals, a makeshift solution that often led to confusion and safety concerns. Pamela Novak, manager of the Ashland and Hanover Visitor Center, recounts how she and volunteers would scan the tracks for signs of approaching trains, especially during busy times. With the new PIDS, Novak has expressed satisfaction at the enhanced clarity and reliability of train information, which she says has significantly reduced the need for manual spotting.
The new systems, developed by Amtrak, provide comprehensive updates on train arrivals, departures, and track assignments in both visual and audio formats. They are also equipped to notify passengers about service disruptions and environmental noise levels are managed by adaptive sound technology. As of March, PIDS have been deployed at several Virginia stations, including Lynchburg, Newport News, Norfolk, Petersburg, Williamsburg, and Richmond’s Staples Mill Road Station.
Amtrak officials highlight that these technological improvements are part of a broader commitment to customer communication and safety. The systems operate remotely from the PIDS Operations Center in Richmond, ensuring timely updates across the network. This initiative is backed by the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) and local partners, who see it as a crucial step toward safer, more efficient rail travel.
“Proper information dissemination reduces the risk of accidents on the tracks,” states VPRA COO Mike McLaughlin. He emphasizes that at stations like Ashland, where crossing to the opposite track is restricted once a train arrives, real-time updates are vital for passenger safety. Although other stations like Fredericksburg offer underpasses for crossing, the need for accurate, timely information remains paramount.
Beyond safety, these enhancements are expected to positively impact ridership. In July, Amtrak Virginia recorded its second-highest monthly passenger count since 2009, with over 131,700 travelers, underscoring increased demand and the importance of reliable information systems.
Local businesses and tourism organizations are also poised to benefit. Martha Miller, Ashland’s assistant town manager, notes that the upgrades are a significant technological and safety breakthrough, which may also influence parking needs during events due to heightened train traffic.
In Richmond, the improvements support efforts by the regional tourism board to promote a seamless and welcoming experience for visitors. Katherine O’Donnell, CEO of Richmond Region Tourism, appreciates the investment, stating that clear, real-time data reinforces the city’s image as a connected and accessible destination.
Pamela Novak, who plans to retire in October after nearly two decades at the visitor center, reflects on the cultural significance of trains in Ashland. She recalls how the station once served as a vibrant hub, with hundreds passing through daily, many of whom relied on her and volunteers for guidance. The new displays mark a new chapter in that legacy, blending tradition with innovation.