The Rail Freight Program aims to preserve essential rail freight services where economically feasible and stimulate economic development by generating new or expanded rail freight services in Pennsylvania. The program supports capital maintenance and construction of freight rail or intermodal rail infrastructure, thereby enhancing the state’s rail freight capabilities.
Eligible applicants include railroad companies, transportation organizations, municipalities, municipal authorities, and users of rail freight infrastructure. Projects are funded up to a maximum of 70% state share, requiring a 30% local match. Recipients must agree to maintain and use the freight rail for 15 years. Applications must be submitted electronically through PennDOT’s Bureau of Rail Freight.