USDOT Launches $1.1 Billion Grant Program to Overhaul Track Safety Nationwide

Rail crossing grant program funding totaling $1.1 billion is available. It is available through the Federal Railroad Administration’s Railroad Crossing Elimination program. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The U.S. Transportation Department announced the funding Friday. The program is also known as the Crossing Safety program.

In addition, USDOT has issued a notice of funding opportunity setting out the application criteria. Grant applications are due June 8.

Railroad Crossing Elimination program funding scope

Grant funds may support overpasses or underpasses. For example, they may also cover crossing safety technology upgrades. The money may also fund track relocation to close a crossing. In addition, it may support education on how to cross tracks safely.

Each year, more than 2,000 incidents occur at crossings nationwide. Also, 300 fatalities occur at crossings nationwide each year. The program focuses on projects that improve safety and mobility for people and goods. Also, those projects eliminate crossings frequently blocked by trains. They also support community education on crossing safety.

“Protecting Americans from railroad crossing collisions is a top priority,” FRA Administrator David Fink said in the release. He added, “From installing automated equipment to eliminating unsafe crossings, we are committed to delivering a safer railroad system for Americans.”

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