The governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo has announced that the state will avail US$87 million in state and federal funding for rail and port projects that are aimed at improving New York State’s position as a global destination for commerce. Projects to be funded through the Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program, administered by the New York 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.
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The Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program program provides enhanced assistance for rail and port capital investments to preserve and enhance the State’s major trade and passenger corridors, while the funding available under the Section 130 Program will be aimed at the betterment of grade crossing surfaces at public crossings. Eligible project activities 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; and other projects that enhance economic competitiveness and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. ”
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,” Governor Cuomo stated. “Our statewide and regional economies depend on having a reliable and resilient transportation network to support commercial activities.”
Marie Therese Dominquez, the New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner said, ” Governor Cuomo continues to make unprecedented investments in transportation infrastructure that facilitate both environmental responsibility and economic development. These projects will help improve the state’s overall economic competitiveness while removing millions of trucks annually from our roadways.”
