Nearly $90 million in state and federal funding is being made available for rail and port infrastructure improvements across New York.
“Our statewide and regional economies depend on having a reliable and resilient transportation network to support commercial activities,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a statement last week. “These targeted investments allow us to modernize our state’s aging rail and port infrastructure, helping to spur economic growth and ensure we remain competitive in today’s global economy.”
Projects funded through the Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program, which will be administered by the state Department of Transportation, will be selected through a competitive solicitation process and rated based on established criteria that include benefit-cost analysis, adherence to regional economic development plans, compatibility with other private and public investments and actions that enhance resilience and reduce climate risk.
“These projects will help improve the state’s overall economic competitiveness while removing millions of trucks annually from our roadways,” said state DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominquez.
Eligible projects may include track and bridge rehabilitation; yard, terminal and siding construction; elimination of clearance obstructions; wharf, dock and bulkhead construction and reconstruction; dredging; and other projects that enhance economic competitiveness and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Applications will be accepted through April 22.
[email protected] / 585-653-4021
Follow Velvet Spicer on Twitter: @Velvet_Spicer