Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced the recipients of nearly $3 million in grant funding to railroads and local governments to support railroad crossing and safety projects.
The nine projects in seven counties across the state will improve industrial access and railway infrastructure, the governor said. The projects will address rail line expansion and access road construction, as well as signal and lighting upgrades.
“In our New Kentucky Home, we’re building a transportation system that works for families, businesses and communities,” Beshear said. “These investments focus on vital railway safety and connectivity upgrades that will help keep everyone safe while continuing to boost Kentucky’s booming economy.”
The funds were part of two grant programs administered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The first, the Kentucky Rail Crossing Improvement (KRCI) program covers up to 80 percent of the project costs to improve safety and traffic flow at public rail crossings through the addition or upgrade of warning devices. The second, the Kentucky Industrial Access and Safety Improvements (KIASI) program provides 50 percent matching funds for projects that strengthen rail connectivity, improve service to existing industries, enhance on-time performance and support economic development in the state.
“Reliable rail infrastructure keeps people moving and commerce flowing,” Transportation Secretary Jim Gray said. “These investments provide peace of mind, enhance economic activity and improve safety for all Kentuckians.”
Among the awardees were two KIASI projects, totaling nearly $1.4 million, will rehabilitate and reactivate 6,400 feet of track in Jefferson County. Additionally, the Owensboro Riverport Authority will see the addition of 26,500 feet of asphalt paving for an old service road, as well as 41,700 square feet of concrete being poured for storage and loading/unloading area.
“Through the leadership of our Governor and legislators, this KIASI Grant program is helping ports and industries statewide expand rail capacity for current and future growth,” said Brian Wright, President and CEO of the Owensboro Riverport Authority. “The Owensboro Riverport Authority is honored to receive this grant and looks forward to continuing to support industrial growth and job creation in western Kentucky.”
Three private railways were awarded nearly $1.6 million in KRCI grants – Paducah and Louisville Railway, Norfolk Southern and R.J. Corman, along with the Bourbon County fiscal court, for projects in Central and Western Ky. To improve signal and lights at crossings and raise curb medians to improve traffic flow.
“These upgrades will not only help protect motorists and rail crews but also strengthen the infrastructure that supports Kentucky’s economy – improving efficiency for freight movement, reducing delays, and strengthening Kentucky’s connection to national and global markets,” Tom Greene, president and CEO of Paducah & Louisville Railway, said. “By investing in modern technology and contributing our own matching funds, P&L remains committed to ensuring safe, efficient rail service that helps drive growth, attract industry, and keep Kentucky competitive.”