FRA issues funding notice for $46 million in PTC grants

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) today announced a notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) for $46.3 million in grants to help railroads pay for the cost of implementing positive train control (PTC).

The NOFO represents the balance of the $250 million PTC Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program that remained after selections were announced in August, FRA officials said in a press release.

Railroads can apply for the grants to help fund the deployment of PTC technology for intercity passenger-rail, freight-rail and commuter-rail transportation.

Eligible projects include back office systems; wayside, communications and onboard hardware equipment; software; equipment installation; spectrum; any component, testing and training for the implementation of PTC systems; and interoperability.

"This expedited solicitation will provide commuter and intercity railroads an additional opportunity to request grant funds for positive train control," said FRA Administrator Ronald Batory. "By reissuing these funds, FRA is showing our continued commitment to work with railroads and suppliers in fully implementing PTC."

Applications are due Oct. 12.