FRA Awards $5 Billion Grant to Amtrak and Others for Rail Projects

FRA has announced awards worth $5.3 billion for rail projects across the U.S. to enhance safety, upgrade critical infrastructure, and purchase new trainsets. Amtrak-specific investments include $2 billion to acquire 43 made-in-America trainsets to replace an aging fleet and $140 million to overhaul 41 locomotives.

Across the U.S., 41 projects received awards in 23 states, with FRA targeting high-risk crossings for closure and replacement. The investments include funding to examine, improve, close, eliminate, and/or create new highway-rail grade crossings, where more than 2,000 incidents and 200 fatalities occur each year.

FRA Administrator David Fink said, “The projects we announced today will help make our nation’s rail network much safer because now state DOTs across America will have the funds they need to eliminate dangerous grade crossings.”

Amtrak noted that the investment in new trains will engage nearly 100 suppliers in 31 states—creating American jobs and supporting local economies. Amtrak Interim President Byl Herrmann said, “Thanks to these new grants and continued support from Secretary Duffy and Administrator Fink, Amtrak is investing in vital projects that will drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve and expand rail service for millions of Americans.”

In addition to the award for new trains, Amtrak said that the investment will advance maintenance facility modernization and viaducts in the Chicago region; rehabilitation of Chicago’s South Branch Bridge; renewal of rail infrastructure in rural and small towns; and funding of partner projects.

Amtrak and partners will contribute a 20 percent funding match for each project. Projects were funded through the National Railroad Partnership Program.