Amtrak, in collaboration with its partners, has secured approximately $200 million from the Federal Railroad Administration’s CRISI grant program. These grants will support crucial projects across the Northeast Corridor and Gulf Coast regions, aiming to improve service, enhance safety, and invest in workforce development.
Gulf Coast Corridor Improvement Project
The largest grant, totaling up to $178,435,333, will enable Amtrak to introduce twice-daily service between Mobile and New Orleans. Working alongside the Southern Rail Commission, this project will focus on track and signal improvements, grade crossing upgrades, and station enhancements, while ensuring freight service reliability. A 20 percent non-Federal match will be provided through contributions from Amtrak, Mississippi and Louisiana states, the Alabama Port Authority, CSX Transportation, and Norfolk Southern Railway.
Northeast Corridor (NEC) Fencing Program
An allocation of up to $8,800,000 will fund a programmatic study and survey to guide future fence installations in vulnerable and high-risk areas along the NEC. By enhancing safety measures and preventing unauthorized access, Amtrak aims to benefit the communities it serves. A 20 percent non-Federal match will be contributed by Amtrak.
Workforce Development Apprenticeship Training Program
Amtrak will utilize up to $8,800,000 to establish a comprehensive training and apprenticeship program for new track foremen/inspector employees. This initiative ensures effective mentorship and skills transfer, fostering career advancement opportunities for current employees. A 20 percent non-Federal match will be provided by Amtrak.
Mississippi-Louisiana Grade Crossing Improvement Project
Collaborating with Canadian National Railway, Louisiana, and Mississippi, Amtrak will study and prioritize grade crossings along The City of New Orleans route for improvement. This project, backed by up to $1,826,000, aims to enhance safety and efficiency. Amtrak will contribute a 20 percent non-Federal match.
Supporting Critical Grants
Amtrak also supported various critical grants submitted by other entities, including projects in Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, and Alabama. These initiatives received funding to improve rail infrastructure and connectivity in their respective regions.
Amtrak’s successful acquisition of these CRISI grants represents a significant milestone in advancing passenger rail services in America. With a commitment to service expansion, safety enhancements, and workforce development, Amtrak is actively contributing to the vision of improved rail travel as outlined in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Further grant announcements are expected later this year.
Source: Amtrak
