Aerial view of Laredo, Texas on a sunny afternoon over looking a freight train yard.
halbergman/Getty Images/iStockphoto
MYSA
By Steven Santana
Texas railroad projects in South and North Texas are going to get a boost from federal infrastructure funds. President Joe Biden's administration announced Monday, September 25, that it is distributing $1.4 billion in infrastructure funds to 70 projects across the U.S., including three Texas projects, according to a news
release from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The funds will go toward upgrading the rail supply chain and rail safety in 35 states.
As much as roughly $14.8 million will be distributed amongst the three projects. Here's a description of each.
Downtown Laredo Rail Corridor Safety Planning Project
Funding will go toward improving grade crossings on the Laredo Rail Corridor by adding grade separated structures and installing gates along those crossings. The project descriptions says the safety improvements will enhance the cross-border trade corridor.
Funding: Up to $4 million
Rio Valley Rail Capacity Improvement Project
This funding will go to the final design and upgrades of multiple bridges along an estimated 50-mile-long corridor in the Rio Grande Valley. The improvements will go toward rail operations and safety to accommodate RGV's growth.
Funding: Up to $3,500,000
Sunray Agricultural Supply Chain Efficiency Project
This project from the Texas North Western Railway Company involves track improvements and upgrades to certain grade crossings. The track improvements will also lead to increased railcar load capacity from 263,000 pounds to the current industry standard of 286,000 pounds.
Funding: Up to $7,342,032