WEST VIRGINIA (LOOTPRESS) – The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, announced a major investment of $22.7 million to enhance rail infrastructure across West Virginia.
This funding is part of a broader national initiative under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, dedicating over $2.4 billion to 122 rail improvement projects across 41 states and Washington, D.C. These investments aim to improve the reliability, safety, and efficiency of the nation’s rail networks, supporting both freight and passenger services and addressing longstanding maintenance needs.
The funding for West Virginia, provided through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, will go towards the Panhandle Rail Industrial Development Expansion Project. This includes critical rehabilitation work on the Winchester & Western Railroad, modernizing its infrastructure by replacing outdated rail and ties to enhance both safety and resilience. Winchester & Western Railroad will contribute a 20% non-federal match to the project’s costs.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg noted that these investments signify the administration’s commitment to building a more resilient and efficient transportation network, citing benefits such as job creation, expanded workforce development, and cost reduction for consumers. FRA Administrator Amit Bose added that the CRISI grants will promote environmentally friendly rail options, support the current workforce, and contribute to long-term industry development.
Beyond infrastructure, the CRISI Program prioritizes workforce development, with grants supporting apprenticeship programs, research, and training for the rail industry. One grant, awarded to the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, will focus on integrating hotbox detectors to improve safety by reducing derailments caused by wheel and bearing failures.
This rail funding package marks one of the most significant federal investments in American rail infrastructure in over five decades, aiming to revitalize and future-proof the rail system for generations to come.
