Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports and studies

Biden-Harris Administration Awards $2.5 Billion in Rail Grants Under Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Boosting Small Railroads Nationwide

Oct 29, 2024, 04:00 PM

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced $2.5 billion in grants to fund 122 railroad projects nationwide under the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, with over half of the funding allocated to smaller railroads. This investment aims to improve and electrify port infrastructure at 55 sites, support approximately 40,000 union jobs, reduce pollution, and combat the climate crisis. Notable allocations include $129 million to expand Colorado's rail network, $111 million to Mississippi to replace 13 bridges and rehabilitate another, and $67.4 million to enhance rail infrastructure in Detroit by constructing over 17,000 feet of new tracks. Additionally, $389 million is designated to expand Metrorail services in Miami-Dade County, Florida, reaching Wynwood, North Miami, and Aventura. The grants also support projects such as restoring rail service between Scranton and New York, with Pennsylvania receiving $6.9 million for Penn State's rail safety research, and Virginia receiving $13 million to expand passenger rail, including upgrading Staples Mill Station in Richmond and restoring Amtrak service in Bedford. The grants reflect the administration's commitment to upgrading the nation's infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, supporting economic growth and enhancing transportation safety and efficiency across various states.