The U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) has granted $2,010,000 to the Twin Cities & Western Railroad Company of Minnesota for improvements to rail infrastructure and safety.
Specifically, those funds will go to efforts in Bongards, Cologne, Jonathan, Norwood, and Plato, Minnesota. Funds were issued through the DOT Railroad Safety Technology Grant Program, to support railroad safety and efficiency efforts. The Twin Cities & Western Railroad Company had applied for the funds with help from U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.)
“By improving rail infrastructure in Minnesota, we’re driving economic development and improving the safety of our communities,” Smith said. “This is a substantial investment and signals to Minnesota communities that the federal government takes its responsibility to enhance the safety and economic competitiveness of our state seriously.”
In the House, the USDOT grants were lauded by U.S. Reps. Tom Emmer (R-MN), Collin Peterson (D-MN) and Dean Phillips (D-MN).
“Rail is one of the primary arteries of Minnesota commerce,” Emmer said. “Whether it be in the Twin Cities or Greater Minnesota – we rely on rail. This investment in the Twin Cities & Western Railroad Company will increase service, while also ensuring the safety of all those who live in communities along these vital transportation routes.”