U.S. Transportation Department Secretary Sean P. Duffy today announced a $1.1 billion investment into improving safety infrastructure at railroad crossings to save American lives. Every year, more than 2,000 incidents and 300 fatalities occur at railroad crossings nationwide.
Funds are available for projects that:
- build overpasses or underpasses so cars and trains never meet
- upgrade safety technology at crossings
- relocate tracks in order to close a grade crossing
- educate Americans on how to cross train tracks safely
“The safety of American families utilizing our transportation infrastructure is my top priority. This Administration is always working towards improving the safety of our transportation networks, including our vital rail network that keeps our economy humming,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “Our investment improves the resilience of our infrastructure and protects workers and travelers alike utilizing American roads.”
“Under Secretary Duffy’s safety first agenda, protecting Americans from railroad crossing collisions is a top priority,” said FRA Administrator David Fink. “From installing automated equipment to eliminating unsafe crossings, we are committed to delivering a safer railroad system for Americans.”
The Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program or Crossing Safety Program focuses on crossing projects that improve the safety and mobility of people and goods, eliminate railroad crossings that are frequently blocked by trains, and educate communities on railroad crossings to save lives.
Under Secretary Duffy, the grant program’s revamped criteria will prioritize safety, enhance access to emergency services, and improve the mobility of people and goods.
-via Press Release
