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Yesterday, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced it will begin accepting applications for $2.1 billion in high-speed rail (HSR) grants and an additional $245 million for individual construction projects within an HSR corridor. Part of the fiscal-year 2010 DOT Appropriations Act, the $2.3 billion in federal funding will complement the Obama Administration’s $8 billion commitment for HSR, FRA officials said in a prepared statement.

“We are excited to move the President’s vision on high-speed rail forward and are working quickly to get money in the hands of states,” said FRA Administrator Joseph Szabo. “These new funds will allow the states to further advance their high-speed rail plans and represent a commitment to developing a world-class transportation network.”

Applications and proposals for the latest federal funds are due to the FRA by Aug. 6. The agency expects to announce grant awards for the separate $2.1 billion and $245 million in FY2010 appropriations by Sept. 30.

In addition to the Administration’s $8 billion appropriation for HSR, the U.S. Department of Transportation earlier this year made $50 million available in planning funds appropriated under the FY2010 DOT Appropriations Act and $65 million available in construction funds appropriated under the FY2009 DOT Appropriations Act.