This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
9/2/2025
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear last week announced a $7.5 million in state funding for six rail infrastructure projects.
The projects were selected to best preserve and modernize the state’s rail system to retain and attract new business and usher in more economic opportunity for the state, according to a press release issued by the governor's office.
The grants will fund the replacement and rehabilitation of over 30 miles of rail; renew an additional 53 miles of track surface; provide critical maintenance to a lift bridge; and replace turnouts and related components such as spikes, ties, cross ties, tie plates and rail anchors.
The grants marked the second time the state awarded funds through its Kentucky Short Line Infrastructure Preservation program. The first round, announced in November 2024, provided funds for eight rail projects. Applicants provide a 50% match for their projects, which are selected based on criteria that include enhancements to existing rail lines, retaining existing or attracting new rail-served industries and project readiness.
Railroads, their grant amounts and projects are:• Paducah & Louisville Railway, a total of $4 million across three projects. They involve replacing crossties and renew track surfaces for 53 miles of mainline track from Mayfield to Paducah; replacing 30 aging turnouts and over a half mile of surrounding track structure within Calvert City's industrial complex; and replacing over 21 miles of rail with new continuous welded rail; • Louisville & Indiana Railroad, $1.1 million, for critical maintenance required on the Clagg Bridge lift span;• R.J. Corman Railroad Group, $1.4 million, to rehabilitate three portions of rail line for the Central Kentucky Line in Fayette County; and• R.J. Corman Railroad Group, $834,193, to rehabilitate 19 miles of Russellville Subdivision track.