FRA: $318 Million CRISI Program

Federal Railroad Administrator Ron Batory has nearl a half-billion in funds to disperse. USDOT photo.

The Federal Railroad Administration has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program that includes more than $318 million in grant funding from the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018.

“These CRISI grants will help make rail systems safer and more efficient for local communities throughout the country,” said FRA Administrator Ronald L. Batory. “This NOFO will assist in funding projects that improve intercity passenger and freight rail transportation safety, efficiency, and reliability.”

Funding of $250 million for Positive Train Control (PTC) systems deployment was provided under a separate NOFO published in May 2018.

“The CRISI grant program directs much needed critical investment to rural America,” FRA noted. “By directing at least 25% of available funds towards rural communities, the USDOT is able to safely connect and upgrade rural America’s rail infrastructure.”

FRA said selection preference will be given to projects with a 50% non-federal funding match from any combination of private, state, or local funds. The USDOT “will also consider how well the project aligns with key Departmental objectives, including supporting economic vitality; leveraging federal funding; preparing for life-cycle costs; using innovative approaches to improve safety and expedite project delivery; and holding grant recipients accountable for achieving specific, measurable outcomes.”

The FRA will host webinars on August 8, 2018, to aid eligible entities seeking funding. Those interested in participating can register at https://www.fra.dot.gov/Page/P1117, and FRA encourages participants to submit questions in advance.

Applications for capital projects funding under this solicitation are due no later than 5:00 p.m. EDT, up to 60 days after the date of publication in the Federal Register. To view the NOFO, visit https://www.fra.dot.gov/Page/P1120. Following the publication of the NOFO in the Federal Register, FRA plans to provide web-based training and technical assistance to applicants to address questions.