New York Construction Report staff writer
New York State’s Department of Transportation (DOT) says $101.8 million in state funding is now available through the Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program that funds rail and port projects across the state.
Eligible projects include track and bridge rehabilitation; yard, terminal and siding construction; elimination of clearance obstructions; wharf, dock and bulkhead construction and reconstruction; dredging; at-grade crossing railroad crossing resurfacing; material handling equipment storage facilities; wayside detectors and other projects that enhance the safe movement of goods, economic competitiveness and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
DOT will be accepting applications through April 7. Program guidance and application materials may be found on The DOT website.
Funding applications will be accepted through April 7, 2025.
“New York State is committed to investing in our rail network to ensure that the raw materials and products that fuel so much of our economy continue to get where they need to go safely and as efficiently as possible,” New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement. “This funding will help us further modernize our rail infrastructure, allowing our local businesses to get the products they need when they need them. I urge anyone with qualifying projects to apply and help us invest in the future economic well-being of our state.”
Winning projects will be selected through a competitive solicitation process and rated based on established criteria that include a benefit cost analysis, adherence to regional economic development plans, safety enhancements, compatibility with other private and public investments, and actions that enhance resilience and reduce climate risk.
Previous awards have funded the purchase of low-emission locomotives and other equipment, track improvements and bridge rehabilitations across the state, including a project to rehabilitate 15 miles of the Voorheesville Running Track in Albany County; the rehabilitation of a rail bridge over the Delaware River and a project to mitigate congestion and increase capacity along the Fremont Industrial track in Queens.
“Investing in Rail and Port infrastructure is evidence of our commitment to safety, addressing state environmental concerns, enhancing trade corridors, and strengthening economic development. Protecting and enhancing our infrastructure allows New York to continue to compete as a global commerce destination,” said Assemblymember William B. Magnarelli.
