ORDC Approves Funding for Rail Safety and Infrastructure Projects

ORDC has approved nearly $1 million in grants to improve short-line infrastructure and enhance rail crossing safety in key locations across Ohio. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Ohio Rail Development Commission (ORDC) awarded a $491,700 grant to the Napoleon, Defiance & Western Railway to replace 7,000 ties between Defiance and Napoleon. The total cost of the project reaches $983,400, with NDW covering the remainder.

Don’t miss…Reconstruction Without ETCS: Berlin–Hamburg Line to Be Upgraded by 2026

Patriot Rail Co., which operates the 43-mile NDW line from Woodburn, Indiana, to near Napoleon, prioritized the upgrade after taking over management. The project addresses long-standing maintenance issues and will help stabilize regional freight service.

In addition to new ties, federal funds will support rail replacement along the same segment, further strengthening the corridor’s reliability and safety.

ORDC Grant Supports Critical Crossing Upgrade in Ceylon

ORDC also approved a $450,000 grant to Willoway Nurseries Inc. for safety improvements at a private rail crossing on its property in Ceylon. The site intersects with Norfolk Southern’s high-traffic Chicago line.

Although the crossing is private, the combination of heavy equipment movements and high-speed trains—including Amtrak—raised serious safety concerns, prompting state action.

Matthew Dietrich, Executive Director of ORDC, stated the decision was necessary. He emphasized that the crossing’s accident record and train speed justified installing gates and warning lights.

ORDC Invests in Short-Line Rehabilitation and Safety

Both grants reflect ORDC’s strategy to modernize essential short-line routes and reduce risks at dangerous crossings. These investments aim to maintain reliable service while protecting workers and the public.

ORDC continues to support infrastructure that fuels economic activity and ensures safe rail operations in Ohio. These upgrades signal a proactive commitment to long-term rail system performance.

Source, photo: www.progressiverailroading.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: