USDOT has approved $607 million in grants for 76 transportation projects across the U.S., including rail upgrades and bridge improvements, accelerating efforts to reduce a national infrastructure funding backlog. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

USDOT has approved $607 million in grants for 76 transportation projects across the U.S., including rail upgrades and bridge improvements, accelerating efforts to reduce a national infrastructure funding backlog.

A highlight among the awards is a $59 million grant through the CRISI program, issued to Conrail for the second phase of the Point-No-Point Bridge replacement. This project enhances regional freight movement and rail safety.

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These grants were previously announced under the Biden administration but remained pending as of the January 20 transition. USDOT began formalizing agreements once Secretary Sean Duffy assumed office.

Since then, USDOT has finalized 405 grant agreements totaling $5 billion, reducing the backlog by roughly 13%. This marks a major step in boosting state and local infrastructure initiatives.

However, USDOT is closely reviewing grant terms. The department is reassessing conditions it considers excessive, including diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) clauses and greenhouse gas reporting mandates.

USDOT Reviews Grant Conditions Before Final Approvals

By tightening oversight, USDOT aims to align infrastructure policy with its current regulatory approach. Officials say each agreement must meet revised standards before funding is released.

This change may affect how future recipients design their projects or respond to federal guidelines. The administration appears committed to balancing speed with scrutiny.

USDOT Targets Rail and Bridge Upgrades in 76 Awards

Many of the newly approved projects focus on critical infrastructure like rail corridors and bridges. These improvements are expected to support economic growth and reduce safety risks.

Grant recipients must still complete final agreements with USDOT before funds are disbursed. A full breakdown of the awards is available on the department’s website.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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