FRA to host webinar on PTC grant program

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will host a webinar next month for applicants interested in recently announced federal grant dollars to help pay for positive train control (PTC) deployment.

Last week, the FRA issued a notice of funding opportunity for $250 million in grants to help fund PTC implementation on freight, intercity passenger and commuter railroads.

During the webinar, which will be held 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. (EDT) on June 4, FRA officials will provide information about how to apply for grant funding. Those interested in participating may register here.

In addition to the June 4 webinar, FRA representatives are expected to speak at a webinar hosted by the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association on May 30.

"Safety is our top priority, and in light of PTC's upcoming deadline, FRA has for the first time asked associations to hold webinars for their members. We are continuing an aggressive outreach strategy and remain steadfast in seeking to help railroads implement PTC in a timely manner," said FRA Administrator Ronald Batory. "Our goal is to help eligible applicants optimize their applications in competing for the available grant funding."

The PTC grant funding falls under the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program and was authorized by the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act, and funded through the 2018 Consolidated Appropriations Act.