Commonwealth Transportation Board Approves Increase for Rail Industrial Access Fund
Applicants will now be able to apply for up to $750,000
 RICHMOND — The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) has approved an increase in funding for future Rail Industrial Access projects. The program, which provides funding for rail access to industrial sites for economic development purposes, will see its maximum grant amount rise from $450,000 to $750,000. This is the first adjustment to the amount available per project since 1995.
The Rail Industrial Access Fund aims to support economic development on shortline and Class 1 railroads by offering grant funding to build or rehabilitate rail spurs. By connecting new or expanding businesses to the freight rail network, the fund also promotes truck diversion, reducing congestion on roadways. Since 2018, the CTB has awarded funding to 23 projects that have added nearly 3,400 jobs to Virginia’s economy and diverted over 70,000 trucks from congested highways and interstates throughout the Commonwealth.
Under the Rail Industrial Access grant program, applicants can now apply for up to $750,000, a significant increase from the previous maximum of $450,000. Applicants are required to provide a 30 percent match from their own resources.
"This increase in funding for the Rail Industrial Access grants will further enhance economic development opportunities across the state," said DRPT Director Jennifer DeBruhl. "By investing in rail infrastructure, we are creating more efficient transportation options for businesses and reducing congestion on our roadways."
The CTB's decision to increase the grant amount reflects the importance of rail access in driving economic growth and attracting new businesses to Virginia. With improved rail infrastructure, the state is well-positioned to support industries and foster job creation.
For more information on the Rail Industrial Access grant program and how to apply, visit Rail Industrial Access (RIA) – DRPT (virginia.gov).
About the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation
DRPT's mission is to connect and improve the quality of life for all Virginians with innovative transportation solutions. The agency works with rail and public transportation stakeholders to provide service to people throughout Virginia and promotes transportation options to the general public, businesses, and community decision makers. DRPT's vision is a connected Commonwealth with an integrated multimodal network that serves every person, every business, and every need. For more information, please visit www.drpt.virginia.gov.
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