New York state will be awarding $27.1 million to fund rail and port improvement projects through the Governor’s Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced.
The funds will be used to repair railroad bridges and rehabilitate tracks.
“New York’s rail and port infrastructure is critical to local economies across the state, and these grants will not only support existing commercial activities but to help attract new business investments as well,” Cuomo said. “With these improvements, we can keep these economic engines running, and ensure safe and efficient travel for both passenger and freight customers statewide.”
New York City received the largest award at $6.3 million. This will fund two projects. A total of $3.5 million will be used to rehabilitate the Arthur Kill Lift Bridge. Funding was awarded to the NYC Department of Small Business Services, Richmond County.
The Long Island Rail Road, Queens County received $2.8 million to rehabilitate the Union Turnpike bridge.
The Mohawk Valley received the next largest award at $2.6 million.
The bulk, $1.8 million, was awarded to the Mohawk, Adirondack and Northern Railroad Corp., for bridge rehabilitation and expanding the engine house expansion.
Railroads of New York supports the grants.
“I applaud Governor Cuomo’s commitment to enhance New York’s economic competitiveness through the efficient movement of freight,” Railroads of New York President Don Hutton said. “These investments not only reduce costs for shippers, but they will lead to lower commodity prices for consumers.”