New York solicits applications for rail, port project grant funds

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul this week announced the availability of $101.8 million in grant funding through the New York State Department of Transportation’s Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program, which funds rail and port projects across the state.

Applications are due April 7. Projects to receive funding will be selected following a competitive solicitation process and rated based on benefit cost analysis, regional economic development plans, safety enhancements, compatibility with other area investments, climate risk reduction and other criteria, Hochul administration officials said in a press release.

Eligible applicants include all railroad companies, New York state agencies, the federal government, the Canadian government, any other state government or public authority, political subdivisions and individual municipalities. Shippers may apply, but will need to partner with eligible applicants. 

Organizations are encouraged to apply for funding to support eligible projects, which include track and bridge rehabilitation; yard, terminal and siding construction; elimination of clearance obstructions; wharf, dock and bulkhead construction; dredging; grade-crossing resurfacing; and material handling equipment facilities, wayside detectors and other projects that enhance the safe movement of goods, promote economic competitiveness and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.