Rail-Related Projects Win $297 Million in Competitive TIGER IV grants

JOC Staff |
On 06/22/2012, the US DOT announced the award of $500 million in TIGER IV discretionary grants to 47 recipients in 34 states and the District of Columbia. The recipients of these competitive, merit-based grants were States, local governments, port authorities, transit agencies, and metropolitan planning organizations.

24 rail-related projects sponsored by the aforementioned public agencies, including Class 1 and short line freight rail projects, port-owned freight rail projects, intercity passenger rail projects, commuter rail projects, and rail transit projects, received $297 million out of the $500 million of available funding.

The OneRail Coalition commends the Administration’s recognition of rail’s inherent efficiency, safety, and environmental benefits in moving freight and passengers.

Investing in America’s rail infrastructure provides critical support for economic growth and improves the competitive position of the United States in the world economy. Rail enhances the mobility and safety of Americans, minimizes impacts on the environment, and reduces the nation’s dependence on imported oil. Rail investments play a crucial role in alleviating highway and aviation congestion and reducing the wear and tear on America’s highways and bridges. Investment in freight and passenger rail supports the expansion of U.S. exports, strengthens U.S. manufacturing capacity, and advances critical national security and environmental objectives.

Rail is a vital component of the nation’s surface transportation system, with freight rail hauling 43 percent of the nation’s ton-miles, commuter rail riders taking 472 million trips per year, and intercity passenger rail moving over 30 million passengers annually. Rail is the smart, sensible way to solve America’s 21st century transportation challenges.