Amtrak initiates plan to improve operations at Washington Union Station

On Monday, Amtrak announced it would be launching a program to revitalize and improve the operations at Washington Union Station, to focus on the customer experience.

Officials said the move comes after the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted Amtrak the right to take control of the management and operations of the station.

“Washington Union Station is a major transportation hub, tourist destination, and a key asset of our core business,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said. “Amtrak has the experience and vision to create a safer and more welcoming environment for travelers and other visitors and ensure the vitality and longevity of this iconic building.”

According to Amtrak, starting Monday the company was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the station, include the drive aisles between the station and Columbus Circle. Amtrak said it would begin work addressing the safety, security, repair and maintenance of the station, as well as the management of retail, office and advertising space, kiosks and special events. Amtrak will not be responsible for the parking garage and Columbus Circle located in front of the station.

The work to improve the station experience will take place in coordination with the U.S Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration, the building owner, and the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation which leases the building from USDOT, officials said. Improvements will include more seating for customers, improved traffic flow in front of the station and modified boarding processes to reduce congestion. Those improvements, Amtrak said, will be introduced over time.

Other plans include setting up an information booth in the Main Hall to help travelers and expanding digital and directional signage throughout the station.

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