The Federal Transit Administration announced the awarding of $600 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace aging rail cars and to improve the reliability, safety and accessibility of the nation's rail transit systems.

Eligible transit agencies and states can apply for funds to replace vehicles made for subway systems, commuter rail systems and light rail systems through the notice of funding opportunity for the fiscal years 2022 and 2023 Rail Vehicle Replacement Programs, according to an Oct. 12 news release.

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assets like subways, commuter rail and streetcars to get where they need to go – but too often, rail cars are decades out of date," U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in the release.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

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