HARRISBURG – Gov. Tom Wolf has announced the approval of 27 rail freight improvement projects that will help sustain more than 400 jobs across Pennsylvania.
“Keeping our extensive rail freight system in good shape is a vital component of creating a sound foundation for Pennsylvania’s economy,” said Wolf.
“These investments underscore our continued commitment in building a world-class infrastructure system that supports the creation of new jobs and our business community.”
The State Transportation Commission voted to approve $32 million for the projects through the Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) and the Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP).
“Rail freight is an important component of Pennsylvania’s transportation network and these investments create opportunities for expansion and job creation,” PennDOT Leslie Secretary Richards said.
“Governor Wolf and I are committed to delivering transportation services that keep people and goods moving and the economy growing in Pennsylvania.”
Pennsylvania, with 67 operating railroads, has more than any other state and PennDOT’s focus is on working with private rail operators to assist in maintaining and improving the roughly 5,600 miles of freight lines in the state.
Among the approved projects were:
Clearfield and Indiana counties
- RJ Corman RR Company, rehabilitate about 36 miles of track including rail, ties, ballast and track surfacing on the Clearfield Cluster’s Cherry Tree, Cresson and Wallaceton subdivisions to improve the efficiency of operations and safety, $4.2 million.
Clearfield and Jefferson counties
- Buffalo Pittsburgh Railroad Inc., rehabilitate about 20 miles of track between Brookville and Falls Creek, facilitating continued freight rail service to Brookville Equipment Corp., $2.1 million.
