PennDOT accepting applications for 2020 rail grants

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has opened the application period for 2020 Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) and Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP) grant funds.

The RFAP provides financial assistance for freight-rail infrastructure projects. The program's intent is to preserve essential freight-rail service where economically feasible and preserve or stimulate economic development through the generation of new or expanded freight-rail service.

Also known as Capital Budget, the RTAP is available to applicants with a line item in a Capital Budget Act. The maximum state funding for an RTAP project is 70 percent of total project costs, not to exceed the amount of the line item.

In 2019, PennDOT awarded $40 million in grants for 26 freight-rail projects. Pennsylvania ranks first in the country in the number of operating railroads at 65 and ranks near the top in total track mileage at more than 5,600, PennDOT officials said in a press release.

"Pennsylvania's vast rail freight network has moved goods and services efficiently during the COVID-19 pandemic, keeping the country moving and ensuring jobs for its employees," said Pennsylvania Transportation Secretary Yassmin Gramian. "Our grant programs focus on safety and reflect the commonwealth's commitment to serving the business community."