[1] The first of VRE's two lines, with service beginning on June 22, 1992,[2] the line operates on tracks owned by CSX Transportation (the RF&P Subdivision) and Norfolk Southern Railway (the Washington District).

Eight years later, after many new stations were constructed, Virginia Railway Express began operating trains on the line on June 22, 1992.

In 2009, Amtrak extended its Northeast Regional service south to Lynchburg, bringing more trains to Manassas and Burke Centre.

[5] In 2017, VRE began a $2.8 million study of expansion to the Broad Run station and layover facility that would allow additional Manassas Line service.

[6] As of June 2024[update], the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority is negotiating with Norfolk Southern to purchase the portion of the Washington District between Broad Run and Alexandria used by VRE.