The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has announced the availability of over $1.4 billion in Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Grant funding set to improve supply chain fluidity.
The CRISI Program, administered by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), advances projects that modernise America’s freight and passenger rail infrastructure.
US President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has more than tripled funding for the CRISI Program this year.
The programme allocates at least 25 per cent of total funds for projects in rural areas.
“Freight rail is a critical part of our supply chains, and when shipping costs come down, families pay less for goods,” said USDOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
“Today, because of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re thrilled to announce the biggest-round of funding ever to make both passenger and freight trains across America safer, faster, and more reliable.”
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According to the USDOT, higher funding levels enabled by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will accelerate progress in building up infrastructure resilience and strengthening the supply chain.
New grant opportunities will also allow FRA to invest in a wide range of projects that will mitigate passenger and freight railroad congestion, enhance multimodal connections, and improve and establish new intercity passenger rail corridors.
“Projects funded by these CRISI grants will generate economic opportunities and improve the travel experience in communities across America, whether urban or rural, large or small,” said FRA Administrator Amit Bose.
“With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s massive boost to the CRISI Program, the funding made available today will help launch our country’s new rail revolution and maintain our rail network’s unmatched standards for safety and efficiency.”
CRISI grants will also focus on safety projects – such as grade crossing enhancements, rail line relocations, and workforce development and training – as well as on emissions reduction projects.
Applications for funding are due 90 days from 1 September.
