New York rail and port projects that promote safety and spur economic development will be able to compete for more than $26.5 million in state funding that Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Thursday.
Administered through the Governor’s Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program, the funding was included in the state’s five-year, $29 billion transportation plan. Projects that enhance safety, ease congestion, boost operating capacity, advance development and increase competitiveness will be considered.
“This funding will improve rail safety and port infrastructure while also alleviating congestion on our roads and boosting economic activity and growth,” Cuomo said. “These investments in our state’s transportation network will help secure a stronger New York for all.”
Projects will be selected based on predetermined criteria. Cost-benefit analysis, adherence to regional economic development plans and compatibility with other public-private investments will all be considered.
“With this program, Gov. Cuomo is continuing to make smart investments in statewide, multimodal transportation, improving rail safety, increasing rail and port freight capacity and supporting job creation while contributing to New York’s economic competitiveness,” New York State Department of Transportation Acting Commissioner Paul Karas said.
In 2017, 19 rail and port improvement projects across the state were awarded $25 million in state funding. The investments leveraged an additional $5.4 million in private and local funding.