The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) recently awarded 10 freight rail projects $16 million in 2024 Michigan Rail Enhancement Grant Program (M-REP) grants, which leverage approximately $11 million in private investment.
M-REP grants reimburse up to 70 percent of project costs associated with bridges, grade crossings, railroad track, and rail scales to weigh freight cars on mainline corridors at intermodal facilities, rail yards, and transload facilities. If plans are submitted that provide adequate controls for Michigan-specific use, movable equipment or freight rail rolling stock may be considered.
Projects improve accessibility, capacity, condition, operational efficiency, and rail safety.
“Michigan’s freight rail system has always been a vital asset in keeping our economy moving by transporting everything, like agricultural products, finished automobiles, consumer goods, building materials, and much more,” State Transportation Director Bradley C. Wieferich said. “These grants will assist railroads in making crucial infrastructure investments that will help provide for safe and efficient transportation.”
Awardees include:
Adrian and Blissfield Railroad Co. was awarded $3.9 million toward a $7.08 million project in Ingham, Jackson, Lenawee counties to conduct rail, tie, ballast replacement, track surfacing, and yard improvements.
Lake State Railway Co. was awarded $2.5 million toward a $4.7 million project to conduct rail, tie, ballast replacement and track surfacing in Iosco County.