WASHINGTON D.C., DC — Congressman Tim Kennedy (D-NY-26) announced on Thursday there is $1.1 billion in funding available for the state to improve railroad crossing safety. The additional funds came after Kennedy wrote a letter to the Federal Railroad Administration following the fatal rail accident in North Tonawanda.
“We all saw the tragic consequences of at-grade crossing collisions, with four lives lost this year alone in North Tonawanda,” Congressman Kennedy said. “I urge eligible applicants to take advantage of this program before funding is exhausted. From the placement of tracks due to our region’s unique geography to aging infrastructure, railroad intersections can be dangerous. This is an important opportunity to secure significant funding to make historic safety improvements, protecting rail workers and communities alike.”
The Railroad Crossing Elimination Program, created through President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, funds crossing improvement projects to improve safety and mobility around railroads, highways, and pathway crossings. There are 18 at-grade crossings in North Tonawanda and several in Buffalo and Niagara Falls.
Some projects available to increase safety include grade separation, track relocation, and improvement or installation of protective devices, signals, or signs.
Eligible applicants that can apply for this funding include states, municipalities, tribal governments, and planning organizations.