FRA Grants: US Rail Infrastructure & PTC Advancements in 2024

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Introduction

In July 2024, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced the allocation of over $16.4 million in grant funding to improve safety and efficiency on multiple rail lines across the United States. These funds are designated for various projects, including Positive train control (PTC) implementation and track upgrades.

Funding Allocations

The FRA awarded more than $16.4 million in Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grants. This funding supports projects aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of passenger and freight rail systems. The grants are distributed across several states and focus on critical infrastructure improvements.

Specific Projects and Recipients

One of the recipients is the Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad (CORP), which received $2,425,750. These funds will be used to install PTC technology on 158 miles of track. The project’s total cost is $7,212,887, with the FRA grant covering a significant portion. Additionally, the Indiana Department of Transportation was awarded $7,632,544 to rehabilitate 18 miles of track on the Chicago, Fort Wayne & Eastern Railroad. The total cost of this project is $11,448,816.

Additional Grant Details

Other grants include $2,425,750 to the Oregon Department of Transportation for track and signal improvements on the Albany Subdivision, which has a total project cost of $3,524,676. The North Central Texas Council of Governments also received $1,200,000 for a grade crossing safety project in Fort Worth, Texas. The total project cost is $1,333,333.

Impact and Future Plans

These grants are part of the FRA’s ongoing efforts to improve rail safety and infrastructure across the nation. The awarded funds will contribute to the modernization of rail systems. The implementation of Positive train control is a key element in these safety improvements.

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Conclusion

The FRA’s allocation of over $16.4 million in CRISI grants in July 2024 supports various rail infrastructure and safety improvements, including PTC implementation and track upgrades across several states.

Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad (CORP)

The Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad (CORP) received $2,425,750 in grant funding from the FRA. These funds will be used to install PTC technology on 158 miles of track.

Indiana Department of Transportation

The Indiana Department of Transportation was awarded $7,632,544 to rehabilitate 18 miles of track on the Chicago, Fort Wayne & Eastern Railroad.

Oregon Department of Transportation

The Oregon Department of Transportation received $2,425,750 for track and signal improvements on the Albany Subdivision.

North Central Texas Council of Governments

The North Central Texas Council of Governments received $1,200,000 for a grade crossing safety project in Fort Worth, Texas.

Positive Train Control (PTC)

Positive train control (PTC) is a safety system designed to automatically stop a train before certain accidents occur, such as train-to-train collisions, over-speed derailments, and incursions into established work zones. The FRA is funding projects that include PTC implementation.

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