Over $1 Billion in Funding for US Intercity Rail Systems
This funding, made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is part of the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program and is aimed at rail projects located outside the Northeast Corridor.
This funding, made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is part of the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Program and is aimed at rail projects located outside the Northeast Corridor.
The announcement builds on the 8.2 billion USD in grants that were awarded in December 2023 for 10 passenger rail projects across the US, including the nation’s first high-speed rail projects.
These efforts are part of a broader initiative by the administration to create a world-class passenger rail system that Americans deserve.
US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said:
“The funding we’re announcing today will help add new train routes and improve existing train lines across the country - another important step the Biden-Harris administration is taking to deliver world-class rail to Americans.”
This funding will support high-speed rail projects, including those in California’s Central Valley and the Brightline West High-Speed Rail project, which will connect Las Vegas to Southern California.
In addition, it will finance upgrades in high-traffic rail corridors in Virginia, North Carolina, and Washington, D.C., alongside capacity expansions at Chicago Union Station.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which earmarks 66 billion USD for rail projects, marks the largest federal investment in passenger rail since the founding of Amtrak.
FRA Administrator Amit Bose said:
“This additional funding through Fed-State National will further expand intercity passenger and high-speed rail services across the Nation. This funding addresses infrastructure needs, reduces congestion, and expands access to reliable transportation options for people living in underserved regions; all while honouring FRA’s commitment to working with states, Tribes, and stakeholders to reshape America’s rail network and lay the foundation for its future.”