FTA: Rail Vehicle Replacement Program Applications Welcome
Written by Marybeth Luczak, Executive Editor
(Photograph Courtesy of FTA, via Twitter)
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) on Oct. 12 reported that $600 million in competitive grant funding is now available through its Rail Vehicle Replacement Program.
The Fiscal Year 2022 and Fiscal Year 2023 program funds will help transit agencies and state and local governmental authorities replace rapid transit, commuter rail and light rail vehicles, including propulsion vehicles (locomotives), that have exceeded their useful life, FTA said. The Rail Vehicle Replacement Program is a set-aside of the State of Good Repair Formula Grants Program (49 U.S.C. 5337). The application period closes Jan. 5, 2023. (Scroll down for the Notice of Funding Opportunity published in the Federal Register.)
“One-third of subway and commuter rail vehicles are more than 25 years old,” said FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez, noting that “Americans who ride transit deserve a world-class experience, featuring newer, safer, more efficient railcars,” which include digital signage and audio tools that improve the riding experience and accessibility for persons with disabilities. “Thanks to the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re going to help provide that opportunity,” Fernandez said.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act—is investing a total of $1.5 billion in new funding over the next five years for the Rail Vehicle Replacement Program, according to FTA.
The agency will host a webinar on Nov. 3, 2022, to discuss program requirements and how to apply.
