THE United States Department of Transportation (DOT) announced $19,524,497 in federal funding to upgrade critical freight rail lines in Rhode Island. The funding will target key segments owned by Providence & Worcester Railroad (P&W) and New England Central Railroad (NECR), significantly improving the state’s rail infrastructure.

The project, estimated to cost approximately $26 million, will be primarily funded by a federal grant, with a local match of $6.5 million. The improvements aim to modernize the rail network, which will result in smoother operations, reduced delays and faster transit times.

The scope of work includes replacing up to 48,000 feet of obsolete and lighter rail, installing 7,900 ties, and reconstructing fourteen public grade crossings along the P&W Railroad’s main line in the Rhode Island. Additionally, the project will reconfigure tracks and replace nine track switches at the P&W Freight Yard in Valley Falls, Rhode Island. These improvements will improve safety and efficiency, allowing increased customs clearance for shipments of hazardous materials.

Senator Jack Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee, highlighted the importance of the investment, saying, “This is a smart investment to help Rhode Island businesses and industries move products and materials where they need to go safely, quickly and efficiently. » He highlighted the positive impact on local supply chains and drivers by filling gaps at level crossings.

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse echoed the sentiment, describing the project as a “win-win for Rhode Island businesses and the public,” while Congressman Seth Magaziner highlighted the bipartisan infrastructure law’s role in supporting economic growth and maintaining smooth supply chains.

Congressman Gabe Amo highlighted the importance of freight rail transportation to Rhode Island’s economy and noted the funding’s positive impact on job creation and business competitiveness.

The funding comes from FRA’s CRISI program, which supports projects that improve the safety, efficiency and reliability of passenger and freight rail services. The CRISI program receives funding through annual appropriations and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp reporter with the reporting included in this article.