In a significant push for state rail infrastructure, the North Carolina Railroad Company (NCRR) has landed a hefty $105 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation, according to an announcement by Governor Roy Cooper. This federal grant, part of the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement Program (CRISI), is targeted at enhancing both passenger and freight rail services along the state's busiest corridor.
The total budget for the rail overhaul sits at $170 million, thanks to additional funding from NCRR, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), and Norfolk Southern. It's projected to yield public benefits worth around $214.49 million, as reported by the official release from the Governor's office. These benefits range from economic growth and safety improvements to environmental advancements.
"Continued investment in passenger and commercial rail is good for our communities and economy across North Carolina," Governor Cooper stated. He voiced his appreciation for the unwavering support from both the Biden-Harris Administration and local federal delegation in securing such a historic investment.
The collaborative funding effort includes $34 million from NCDOT, $17.8 million from NCRR, and $13 million from Norfolk Southern. These dollars are being heralded as crucial by state officials for transforming North Carolina's rail capabilities as it prepares itself to accommodate one of America's most rapidly expanding regions. NCRR President and CEO, Carl Warren, describes this as "an extraordinary moment for North Carolina’s rail network," signaling the onset of increased rail capacity to bolster the movement of both passengers and freight, as mentioned on the Governor's office website.
Investments aim to improve the current service, as evidenced by the NC By Train ridership statistics, which saw over 342,000 customers in the first half of 2024, a 20% uptick compared to the previous year. There have also been advances on the S-Line with a $1.1 billion federal grant earmarked for a speedier, direct route connecting Raleigh and Richmond.
With the Carolinian and Piedmont Passenger and Freight Improvements Project poised to commence in 2025, following the design and environmental permitting phases, the upgrades are slated to impact various locations across the state, enabling additional passenger trains and reducing delays. Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of Norfolk Southern, Michael McClellan, echoed this sentiment, anticipating future expansions stemming from this "transformational investment" in the state's rail infrastructure, as per the Governor's website.
