The US Department of Transportation (USDOT) has announced the availability of more than US$1.4 billion in Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Grant funding.
The CRISI Program, administered by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), aims to promote projects to modernise America’s freight and passenger rail infrastructure.
This year, the Bipartisan US Infrastructure Law more than triples funding for the CRISI Program.
In fact, the programme allocates at least 25% of the total funds for projects in rural areas.
“Freight rail is a critical part of our supply chains, and when shipping costs come down, families pay less for goods,” told US transportation secretary, Pete Buttigieg, who went on to add, “because of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re thrilled to announce the biggest-round of funding ever to make both passenger and freight trains across America safer, faster, and more reliable.”
Higher levels of funding will also accelerate progress in building up infrastructure resilience and strengthening the supply chain, according to a statement.
USDOT said that grants are very important for short-line railways, whose operations boost local economies and are vital for supply chain liquidity.
“Projects funded by these CRISI grants will generate economic opportunities and improve the travel experience in communities across America, whether urban or rural, large or small,” noted FRA administrator, Amit Bose.
“With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s massive boost to the CRISI Program, the funding made available today will help launch our country’s new rail revolution and maintain our rail network’s unmatched standards for safety and efficiency,” added Bose.
