PENNDOT ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR RAIL FREIGHT GRANT PROGRAMS

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for two key rail freight grant programs.

PennDOT says the application window for the “Rail Transportation Assistance Program” and the “Rail Freight Assistance Program” is open now through August 29^th.  Secretary Mike Carroll says the funding supports rail-line safety and economic development, calling the freight network “a critical piece of our transportation infrastructure.”

Pennsylvania leads the nation with 65 operating railroads and more than 5,600 miles of freight lines. Last year, PennDOT awarded $55 million to 30 rail projects across the state,  creating or sustaining more than 340 jobs. The grants help build or improve rail lines and are aimed at supporting private operators and businesses that depend on rail service. Applications for both programs open at 8 a.m. on August 4^th, and must be submitted by 4 p.m. August 29^th.