The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s (NCDOT) Rail Division recently awarded 11 short line freight railroads $12.9 million in Freight Rail & Rail Crossing Safety Improvement grants. State ports in Morehead City and Wilmington also received funding.
The program supports statewide freight rail infrastructure health, safety and performance and establishes partnerships to effectively meet the growing demand for rail service. The grants are a state match to company investments, bringing the total investment to $25.8 million.
“The benefits these projects offer the statewide freight rail network can’t be overstated,” Jason Orthner, NCDOT Rail Division director, said. “Together, NCDOT and our short line partners are increasing reliability and resiliency in freight rail operations, supporting North Carolina businesses and contributing to the state’s economic vitality.”
Funding will be used to enhance port rail operations, improve 16 railroad bridges, and upgrade more than 10 miles of railroad corridor.
Awardees include:
North Carolina Ports was awarded $3.9 million to construct rail storage track and to raise adjoining track.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad was awarded $2.08 million for slope retaining wall construction, track upgrades, the refurbishment and construction of sidings, and culvert and drainage upgrades.
North Carolina and Virginia Railroad was award $1.01 million for track upgrades and rail corridor improvements.