Pennsylvania Invests Millions in Rail-Freight Improvements

$31 Million; 26 projects; 200 jobs.

Source : Pennsylvania Department of Transportation | Facebook

January 13, 2021

Author : Patty Rodriguez

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf (D) announced on Tuesday that funding for 26 rail-freight projects has been approved. The projects are aimed at improving freight mobility.

Better yet, the projects will create or sustain more than 200 jobs in The Keystone State.

“Investing in our state's rail system creates jobs and supports efficient freight travel,” Governor Wolf said in a press release. “These investments help us build a world-class infrastructure system and support the business community.”

The announcement follows a vote by the State Transportation Commission to approve $31.3 million for the 26 projects through the “Rail Transportation Assistance Program” and the “Rail Freight Assistance Program.”

With 65 operating railroads, Pennsylvania has more functioning rails than any other state, though the state is only number eight in terms of miles of rail line, with 5,600.

“The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is committed to working with private rail operators and rail-served businesses to construct new rail lines and assist in maintaining and improving Pennsylvania’s… freight lines,” the press release states.

Allegheny County, which is home to Pittsburgh, will see $700,000 go to the Union Railroad Company to replace 500 bridge ties and 700 feet of rail, and another $1 million to repair the Port Perry Bridge with new floor beams and bridge stringers.

A full list of the 26 projects can be found here.

Category : Contractor Trades Department of Transportation Investment in Infrastructure Labor Public-Private Partnership State Government

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