DOT Awards Amtrak $164M for Northeast Corridor Enhancements under FY24 Agreement

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has announced a monumental cooperative agreement with the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, commonly known as Amtrak, by earmarking an impressive $164,360,070 in federal funding. This grant, detailed under the Funding Opportunity Number FR-AMT-24-001, is set to support Operating, Capital, and Debt Service activities for Amtrak until December 31, 2025, or until the funds are fully expended. The announcement, which was posted on November 8, 2023, indicates a swift application timeline with the closing date for applications set for November 16, 2023. Amtrak stands as the sole eligible applicant for this dedicated funding, which aims to bolster the transportation infrastructure along the critical Northeast Corridor.

This substantial financial injection is purposed for an array of enhancements to Amtrak’s services and infrastructure. It requires Amtrak to submit a comprehensive application including projected operating and capital costs, a detailed description of capital projects with timelines and cost estimates, and an assessment of financial conditions. The FRA’s contribution seeks to ensure the continuation of quality rail service, safety, and security improvements along one of the busiest stretches of railway in the country. This grant represents a significant investment in the nation’s transportation network, furthering efforts to modernize the Northeast Corridor, and underlines the FRA’s commitment to improving America’s rail systems for the benefit of commuters and travelers alike.