HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced Monday that the application period for the grants under the Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) and the Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP) is now open.
Pennsylvania ranks first in the country in the number of operating railroads, with 65, and ranks near the top in total track mileage, with more than 5,600 miles.
In the 2023 grant period, the Shapiro Administration awarded $42.5 million for 25 rail freight projects supporting over 300 jobs statewide.
PennDOT manages two grant programs: RTAP, a capital budget grant program funded with bonds; and RFAP, which is funded through the Multimodal Fund created by Act 89 of 2013.
Both programs provide financial assistance for investment in rail freight infrastructure, with the intent of preserving essential rail freight service and stimulating economic growth through new or expanded rail freight service.
Eligible organizations can apply to either program on the application Web site now through 4 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 30.
Program information can be found on the PennDOT website and application questions should be directed to Harrison Warren at hwarren@pa.gov or 717-736-7150 and Steve Panko at stepanko@pa.gov or 717-787-1202.
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