The Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program (PFRAP) is a funding opportunity managed by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). This program offers capital funding to maintain and modernize rail and port infrastructure across New York State. It plays a pivotal role in the state’s economic development plan, with an emphasis on improving environmental sustainability and reducing emissions through increased rail usage for the movement of both passengers and freight.

The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) is offering up to $101.8 million in funding under this program. These funds are intended for capital improvements in passenger rail, freight rail, and port infrastructure, including track construction, bridge rehabilitation, signal systems, rolling stock, and port facility improvements. Projects that reduce the carbon footprint of railroad or port facilities are prioritized, in alignment with the state's commitment to climate leadership. The program encourages both public and private entities to apply, as long as the projects meet the required criteria and are located in New York State. The total funding allocated includes $13.8 million for passenger rail, $42.6 million for freight rail, and $35.4 million for port infrastructure.

Eligible applicants include railroad companies, state agencies, municipalities, and public authorities. Not-for-profit organizations applying for the funds must be prequalified in the Statewide Financial System (SFS). The program permits applicants to submit up to three applications, with a maximum of two awards per applicant. The maximum award per project is $10 million, and projects are required to have a minimum service life of 10 years. For successful applicants, reimbursements will be made on a monthly basis, with a preference for those projects offering a higher local share of the total project cost. The program is a reimbursement-based system, meaning that applicants must pay project costs upfront before receiving funds.

Application materials are available on the NYSDOT website, and the submission deadline for applications is April 7, 2025. Applicants must include a variety of supporting documents, including a detailed project estimate, a map of the project location, and a benefit/cost ratio analysis. Applications will be evaluated based on factors such as alignment with the New York State Rail Plan, public outreach efforts, project scope, and the public benefit/cost ratio. Grantees are required to operate and maintain the funded improvements for a minimum of 10 years. Additionally, applicants must meet civil rights requirements, including affirmative action goals related to Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (M/WBE) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOB).