The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced it will provide $600 million this year from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace aging railcars, improving reliability, safety, and accessibility on the nation’s rail transit systems. Eligible transit agencies and states can apply through the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the FY 2022 and FY 2023 Rail Vehicle Replacement Program for funds to replace vehicles on subway systems, commuter rail and light rail systems.

“Every day, millions of Americans rely on assets like subways, commuter rail, and streetcars to get where they need to go – but too often, railcars are decades out of date,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are using new resources to help modernize America’s aging railcars so that riders who depend on them get faster, safer, and more reliable service.”

Older railcars contribute to service delays and increased costs while lacking newer amenities, such as digital signage and audio tools, that improve the riding experience and accessibility for persons with disabilities. That’s why the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests a total of $1.5 billion in new funding over the next five years for FTA’s Rail Vehicle Replacement Program.

“One-third of subway and commuter rail vehicles are more than 25 years old,” said FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez. “Americans who ride transit deserve a world-class experience, featuring newer, safer, more efficient railcars. Thanks to the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re going to help provide that opportunity.”

-via Press Release