The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently announced it will provide $5 million to fund a rail research and development Center of Excellence.
The Center of Excellence is a three-year program that will advance research and development efforts to improve the safety, performance, and sustainability of freight, intercity passenger, and commuter rail.
“To have the world-class rail services that Americans deserve, we need to plan for and invest in the future, modernize our rail infrastructure, and put dedicated men and women on a path of opportunity and possibility for decades to come,” FRA Administrator Amit Bose said.
Eligible proposals advance research, evaluation, education, workforce development, and training efforts related to safety, project delivery, efficiency, reliability, resiliency, and sustainability. Projects include advanced Positive Train Control, inspection and remote sensor technologies, rail systems maintenance, operational reliability, grade crossing safety, advances in rolling stock, and human factors.
Eligible applicants include those with past performance related to rail research, education, and workforce development activities.
The Center of Excellence will fund up to 50 percent of the cost of selected proposals. This round of funding is for fiscal years 2022 and 2023. Another $2.5 million, subject to the availability of funds, will be made available for fiscal year 2024.