The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced the availability of around 2.3 billion USD (2.18bn EUR) in funding via the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant Program.
This is one of the largest investments in US passenger rail services in the last 50 years, and supports the modernisation and expansion of intercity and high-speed rail services across America.
As well as accepting applications for projects to expand or establish new services, those that improve the safety, reliability and performance of intercity passenger rail services and project planning elements, such as environmental review and final design, are also eligible for funding.
Applications will be accepted up to 7 March 2023.
The grant programme, administered by the US Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), has funded the revitalisation of rail assets for many years. However, the passing of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law greatly expanded its scope.
“This Partnership Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) offers exciting opportunities to expand federal support for intercity passenger and high-speed rail services to all parts of our nation.
“FRA will work closely with states and stakeholders to provide sustained and dedicated investments in this vital mode of transportation, and together, we will reshape America’s passenger rail network for generations to come.”
This notice closely follows September’s funding announcement of 1.4 billion USD (1.32bn EUR) in Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) funds for projects that improve freight and passenger rail networks and strengthen supply chains.
Additional funds for projects located on the Northeast Corridor will be made available before the end of year.
