PennDOT’s Bureau of Rail Freight, Ports and Waterways has announced an application period for the 2016 Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) and the 2016 Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP), Secretary Leslie S. Richards said Friday.
PennDOT will begin accepting applications August 1. The deadline for applications is August 30.
“Rail freight continues to play a crucial role in offering connections that serve the business community and help build Pennsylvania’s economy,” Richards said. “Our grant programs reflect the Commonwealth’s commitment to keep this mode of transportation vibrant and effective.”
Pennsylvania ranks first in the country in the number of operating railroads, with 63, and also ranks near the top in total track mileage, with more than 5,600 miles.
In the last grant period, PennDOT awarded $36 million for 15 projects through RTAP and 16 projects through RFAP. RTAP is a capital budget grant program funded with bonds and RFAP is underwritten through the new Multimodal Fund, created by Act 89.
For eligible organizations wishing to apply for funding through either program, applications for both programs will be available on PennDOTs Rail Transportation Assistance Program webpage. Questions should be directed to Tom Stettler by email to: tstettler@pa.gov or call 717-772-2637 or Steve Panko by email to: stepanko@pa.gov or call 717-787-1202.
Program information can be found on PennDOT’s Rail Freight webpage.
