NJDOT awards $26.3M in New Jersey freight-rail grants

NJDOT has awarded New Jersey freight-rail grants totaling $26.3 million. The funding comes through its Rail Freight Assistance Program. It covers 11 grants for fiscal-year 2026.

New Jersey freight-rail grants and FY2026 funding

According to NJDOT, the program is designed to preserve the state’s freight transportation system. The program also supports improvements to that system. It also aims to make freight-rail service more widely available to businesses in New Jersey.

Officials said grants typically cover up to 90% of an eligible project’s estimated cost.

In addition, project sponsors must continue freight service on an improved line. That requirement lasts at least 10 years after the work is completed.

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“These grants for critical freight-rail infrastructure improvements are investments in our future to provide for the safe and efficient movement of goods in New Jersey, while reducing truck traffic on our highways,” said NJDOT Commissioner Priya Jain.

Largest Rail Freight Assistance Program awards

For example, Conrail received $4.8 million for a port capacity project in Elizabeth. South Jersey Port Corp. was awarded $3.9 million for rail improvements at the Balzano Marine Terminal in Camden City.

Meanwhile, Winchester & Western Railroad received $2.8 million. The grant is for a Seashore Branch access project in Millville City. The New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway Corp. also received $2.8 million. That funding covers the installation of curve patch rail, ties and ballast. It also covers surfacing work in three townships.

Separately, a full list of recipients is available.

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