Central Port District to improve intermodal park's rail connection

America's Central Port District of Granite City, Illinois, has received a $700,000 federal grant to help cover the cost of rail and roadway improvements to the port's intermodal industrial park.

The U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded the grant earlier this month. The project is needed to spur business growth at the park, EDA officials said in press release.

The project includes construction of 2,200 feet of track, which will improve the link between area manufacturers and the nation's freight transportation.

Additionally, the park's D Street will be milled and a 2-inch asphalt overlay will be applied.

"This project will provide local manufacturers and other businesses with the transportation infrastructure they need to grow and thrive," said Dennis Alvord, the department's deputy assistant secretary for regional affairs.