The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) recently awarded $6.5 million to eight freight rail projects statewide through the Minnesota Rail Service Improvement program.
Funding was approved during the 2021 legislative special session
“The number of applications received this winter demonstrates continued strong demand for improving freight rail infrastructure throughout the state,” Peter Dahlberg, Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations program manager, said. “Better rail service gives Minnesota businesses more opportunity to compete in global and national markets.”
MnDOT received 16 applications requesting a total of $18.9 million. The approved projects improve freight rail service that supports economic development.
Grants were awarded between $270,000 and $1.9 million. The awardees include:
- Archer Daniels Midland was awarded $1.9 million for a new loadout building, equipment, and connecting new track to existing infrastructure.
- Duluth Seaway Port Authority was awarded $1.2 million to modernize and upgrade rail and switches.
- Heartland Corn Products was awarded $1 million to expand and improve the efficiency of a railyard.
- Twin Cities and Western Railroad was awarded $690,000 to improve and expand rail access at an unloading/loading facility site.
- Progressive Rail was awarded $609,000 to extend a track interchange to accommodate new business.
- The city of Newfolden was awarded $600,000 to replace rail crossing bridge structure.