Federal Railroad Administration announces over $1 billion in funding for rail projects

Key Takeaways

On October 1, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) released more than $1 billion in funding through the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program (FSP). The new funding builds on the $8.2 billion announced last December for ten passenger rail projects—including the country’s first-ever high-speed rail.  

The FSP Program funds projects to expand and modernize intercity passenger rail nationwide, excluding the Northeast Corridor. The program aims to fund projects that reduce the state of good repair backlog, improve performance, or expand or establish new intercity passenger rail service, including privately operated intercity passenger rail service. This program comes through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (P.L. 117-58).  

How do counties benefit from rail investments?

Many counties serve as key transportation hubs, with rail networks driving local and regional economies. Counties directly support over one-third of the nation’s transit systems.  

With rail safety, reliability and efficiency being key priorities for counties, NACo will continue to advocate for rail investments that connect our counties and protect our residents. As intergovernmental partners, counties value federal funding opportunities like the FSP Program that help us meet our vast public infrastructure responsibilities and improve our rail systems.  

How can counties apply?

The FRA is currently accepting applications as well as offering technical assistance to potential applicants before the deadline. Applications are due on December 16, 2024.  

The FRA will host an informational webinar on October 10 from 2:00-3:00 pm. Register here.  

For the NOFO and information to apply, click here.