The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will soon make available $139 million in Special Transportation Circumstances (STC) grant program funding.
“This funding will create jobs, grow local economies, and increase rail safety and efficiency in states where geography and other circumstances create unique needs,” FRA Administrator Amit Bose said.
The STC program provides states that are not connected to the national rail system or lack intercity passenger rail service with funding. Eligible projects include installing culverts, supporting lumber transport, and upgrading avalanche safety systems.
Appropriations from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements, Interstate Rail Compact, Restoration and Enhancement, and Railroad Crossing Elimination programs are used to fund STC projects.
Grants cover up to 80 percent of total project costs.
The application deadline is Sept. 29. Information on the grant application process can be found in the notice of funding opportunity published in the Federal Register.
Funding is for projects eligible through the Consolidated Appropriations Acts of 2017 to 2023.
The STC program is part of President Joe Biden’s Investing in America agenda. The program will provide funding for projects that upgrade and safeguard rail infrastructure in Alaska, South Dakota, and Wyoming.