Kansas DOT awards $16.5M to short-line projects

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly yesterday announced that $16.5 million will be awarded to 17 short line expansion and rehabilitation projects.

Issued through the Kansas Department of Transportation Rail Service Improvement Program (RSIP), the grants will help improve the state's agricultural supply chain, according to a press release issued by the governor's office.

RSIP recipients will use the funds for expansion and capacity improvements, major track rehabilitation and rail replacement. The projects call for improvements that enhance safety, expand carload capabilities, reduce truck traffic, increase operating speeds and improve operating efficiencies.

RSIP funding recipients will provide a 30% match to the funding, resulting in a total rail infrastructure investment of more than $23.5 million.

Selected projects through the RSIP for fiscal-year 2024 include:
• $2.2 million to the Cimarron Valley Railroad for expansion and capacity improvements;
• $1.95 million to South Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad for expansion and capacity improvements;
• $1.7 million to V&S Railway for preservation and major rehabilitation;
• $1.47 million to Weskan Grain for expansion and capacity improvements;
• $1.4 million to Summit Sustainable Ingredients for expansion and capacity improvements; and
• $1.4 million to New Century AirCenter Railroad for major rehabilitation.

"Rail service lessens the number of trucks that would otherwise be on local roads and Kansas highways, which reduces roadway maintenance and rehabilitation needs," said Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed.