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(The Associated Press circulated the following on March 12, 2009.)

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Virginia Beach has acquired a 10.6-mile rail line from Norfolk Southern for $40 million.

The line would link Norfolk and Virginia Beach if a proposed light rail is built.

Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms announced the purchase of the line Thursday.

Funding for the purchase came from a $20 million state grant, $10 million from the city and $5 million from Hampton Roads Transit. The remaining $5 million will come from easement payments.