The program provides operating assistance for staffing, fuel, electricity, station expenses, rolling stock lease payments, routine planned maintenance, host railroad access costs, train yard operation and administrative costs. States (individually or collectively), cities and other government entities are eligible to apply, as are Amtrak and other intercity passenger rail companies. The statute requires FRA to prioritize several application types, including those supporting projects that “foster economic development, expand transportation options in underserved communities, and restore former Amtrak routes.” “We’re encouraging applicants to leverage federal Restoration and Enhancement grants to support large-scale, intercity passenger rail improvements,” said FRA Administrator Ronald Batory. The Notice of Funding Opportunity was published in the Nov. 6 Federal Register. Applications must be received by Jan. 6, 2020. For more information, visit FRA’s Restoration and Enhancement Grants Program webpage. The post FRA Offering $24MM in FAST Funding appeared first on Railway Age. Continue reading...
