More than $5.6 million in state grants were secretly awarded to support six Kentucky railway infrastructure improvement projects spanning seven counties statewide – projects aimed at improving commercial rail access, enhancing safety, attracting investment, and creating jobs for Kentuckians.
[Above photo by KYTC]
Those grants were distributed by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet through the Kentucky Industrial Access and Safety Improvement or KIASI program.
KYTC noted those grants will help support construction of two new rail spurs to serve industrial parks and manufacturing facilities, replacement of culverts on a high-density Norfolk Southern line, expansion of on-site storage and loading capacity, and purchase of new equipment to improve efficiency and safety.
“By modernizing our rail network, we’re ensuring trains are safe and efficient while creating new opportunities for communities across the commonwealth,” said Governor Andy Beshear (D) in a statement regarding that rail grant funding.
“Every line we improve and every spur we build means safer travel, stronger businesses, and more good paying jobs for Kentuckians, right here at home,” he added.
The KIASI grant program designates $7.5 million each fiscal year in 50/50 grants for railroad equipment, construction, reconstruction, improvement, or rehabilitation of rail facilities or engineering work associated with capital projects.
“Each project is an investment in opportunity and prosperity for Kentuckians,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “These funds will ensure safe and efficient movement of goods across Kentucky while strengthening local economies and supporting jobs across our Commonwealth.”
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