Biden Administration Announces Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding to Make Public Transportation Rail Stations Accessible for All

Thirty-two years after the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, U.S. rail systems will get a significant boost in federal funds to improve accessibility for all riders. Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced today it will provide $1.75 billion to make it easier for people to get on board at the nation’s oldest rail public transportation systems, including $343 million in a notice of funding availability now. The funding will help agencies retrofit subway stations so people who need an elevator or ramp – including people who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility – can still reliably access the rail systems serving their communities.

The All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) is a new discretionary grant program created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will increase access to our transportation system and advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s priorities of promoting equity, addressing the workforce shortage, and boosting economic strength. Funding through ASAP ensures that those relying on rail systems can get to work and school, be less dependent on vehicles, save money, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Inaccessibility is a significant hurdle for riders using rail systems built before 1990, known as legacy systems. Over 900 transit legacy stations are not fully accessible today. ASAP will provide support for transit agencies to repair, improve, modify, retrofit, or relocate infrastructure of stations or facilities for passenger use. Planning activities by transit agencies seeking to improve accessibility also qualify for ASAP funds.

Given that many inaccessible rail stations are concentrated in dense urban areas, millions of transit riders across the country are impacted by the lack of infrastructure that supports assisted devices, such as wheelchairs or crutches. Additionally, people experiencing a temporary disability, caregivers, and parents with strollers are adversely impacted by the lack of these accommodations.

-via Press Release

CPKC 2025 Holiday Train kicks off Nov. 19

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) announced the schedule and artist line up for the 2025 Holiday Train, a festive celebration combining musical performances and holiday cheer kicking off with its first show on Nov. 19 in Montreal, Que. Now in its 27th year, the Holiday Train raises money and collects food across CPKC’s extensive network in Canada and the United States supporting community food banks and making a real difference for families in need.

SEPTA’s Actions for Improved Silverliner IV Safety

FRA Emergency Order No. 34 requires SEPTA to take 15 specific actions including operator and mechanical personnel training, installation of new thermal detectors, daily maintenance quality control inspections and a comprehensive, point-to-point inspection of every Silverliner IV railcar following an aggressive FRA-approved schedule.