Illinois provides $241 million to boost freight mobility

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner on Tuesday announced $241 million in grants for 23 projects aimed at improving freight mobility throughout the state.

Rauner made the announcement at the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis’ intermodal facility in East St. Louis. The switching railroad will receive $1.93 million to re-establish a previously existing track alignment that will eliminate conflicts with four nearby grade crossings, according to a press release issued by Rauner's office. The railroad will contribute $500,000 to complete the work.

The state also will provide $25 million to separate vehicle and rail traffic at the Brush College Road/Faries Parkway next to Midwest Inland Port in Decatur.

The grants are being administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) using federal funds. The funds were awarded on a competitive basis. Local, state and federal agencies and private entities were eligible to apply.

Projects receiving awards also meet the goals of IDOT's Illinois State Freight Plan, which "encourages intermodal accessibility to regional freight corridors and the strategic use of technology," according to the release.

"Illinois is at the heart of freight activity for the entire country," Rauner said. "These are smart investments that help improve economic competitiveness. At the same time, communities will be less congested, and the movement of goods and services will be safer and more efficient.”