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On Tuesday, the Iowa Transportation Commission approved more than $4 million in funding for nine rail infrastructure and development projects through the Railroad Revolving Loan and Grant (RRLG) program. Allocated loans total $2.84 million and grants total $1.17 million.

The commission approved a $1.5 million loan for the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City Railway Co.'s Iowa River crossing north bridge project. The commission also endorsed a $744,000 loan and $372,000 grant for a "Rail One" project, and a $600,000 loan and $300,000 grant for a Union Pacific Railroad/CN connector in Iowa Falls.

In addition, the following studies will receive planning grants: the Iowa Falls/Hardin County rail port planning study, $100,000; Sioux City rail study phase II, $100,000; North Central Ag Park planning study, $80,000; Mills County-Pottawattamie County rail port study, $78,400; and Burlington Junction Railway rail/truck/barge planning study, $40,000.

The rail projects are expected to support the creation and retention of more than 110 jobs within the next three years and spur development of six industrial areas across the state, commission members said in a prepared statement. The RRLG program provides funding assistance for rail-related projects that support job creation, spur economic development, preserve and improve the connectivity of the state's rail system, and promote rail-based industrial development.