PENNSYLVANIA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) recently announced the approval of 25 rail freight improvement projects. These developments aim to bolster freight mobility and are expected to create or sustain close to 300 jobs throughout Pennsylvania. This announcement builds upon the recent allocation of over $140 million in federal funds for rail investments in the state, particularly for the expansion of passenger rail along the Keystone West corridor between Harrisburg and Pittsburgh.
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll stated, “Expanding Pennsylvania’s rail freight network will support family-sustaining jobs and connect Pennsylvania communities to the global economy while bolstering local economic development.” He emphasized that this is a historic moment for infrastructure growth in Pennsylvania, thanks to state and federal funding. Carroll added that the expansion of Pennsylvania’s efficient rail freight network and service would provide vital mobility across 23 counties within the Commonwealth.
Pennsylvania boasts 65 operating railroads, the most in any state, and PennDOT is dedicated to collaborating with private rail operators and rail-served businesses. The goal is to construct new rail lines and assist in maintaining and improving Pennsylvania’s approximately 5,600 miles of freight lines.
On December 13, 2023, the State Transportation Commission approved $42.5 million for these projects via the Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) and the Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP). These investments underline the Commonwealth’s commitment to enhancing its railroad infrastructure, fostering job creation, and improving the state’s connectivity with the broader global economy.
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