FRA opens application period for passenger rail funding

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The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently open the application period for more than $1 billion in Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program funding for projects not located on the Northeast Corridor. 

“This additional funding through Fed-State National will further expand intercity passenger and high-speed rail services across the Nation,” FRA Administrator Amit Bose said. “This funding addresses infrastructure needs, reduces congestion, and expands access to reliable transportation options for people living in underserved regions; all while honoring FRA’s commitment to working with states, tribes, and stakeholders to reshape America’s rail network and lay the foundation for its future.” 

Eligible projects include projects that improve intercity passenger rail safety, reliability, and performance, or those that expand or establish new intercity passenger and high-speed rail service, and/or replace or rehabilitate rail infrastructure.

Funding also can cover any associated project planning elements such as environmental review and final design.

The application deadline is Dec. 16. The FRA will provide technical assistance to potential applicants.

In December, the FRA awarded 10 passenger rail projects nationwide $8.2 billion in funding.

The FRA awarded more than $28 billion in grant funding to nearly 170 rail projects in 2023, and this year has made available more than $6.4 billion.