The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) that allocates over $153 million for the Restoration and Enhancement (R&E) Grant Program. This funding aims to cover operating costs for projects establishing new routes, restoring former intercity passenger operations, and enhancing existing services. These initiatives align with ongoing major rail projects nationwide, supported by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“The quality of our intercity passenger rail services has a major impact not only on the experiences of millions of riders but also on the economic vitality of our communities as well as our efforts to combat climate change,” stated U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Safer, more frequent, and more accessible passenger rail services—made possible with funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law--will expand travel and commuting options, creating newly efficient and sustainable opportunities to get around the country.”

The R&E Program covers various expenses for up to six years for new, restored, or enhanced passenger rail operations while building ridership and revenue bases. These include staffing costs for train crew members; station costs like ticket sales and customer information; train yard operations; routine maintenance; marketing; and administrative expenses. The program aims to encourage a shift towards safe and environmentally friendly transportation options.

“The R&E Program plays a vital role in bringing world-class passenger rail service to all Americans by improving rider satisfaction and making possible new routes and services that will meet the needs of citizens across the country,” said FRA Administrator Amit Bose. “Through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FRA is helping to ensure the success of new and expanded intercity passenger rail services that will have a major impact on the safety and efficiency of our transportation networks and the quality of life of local communities for generations to come.”

This announcement marks the first round of R&E Program funding since its expansion under the infrastructure law. It follows substantial investments made this year through other federal programs aimed at enhancing intercity passenger rail services. Collectively, these efforts are part of the Biden-Harris Administration's investment in modernizing national rail infrastructure.

The NOFO is available in today’s Federal Register, with applications due 75 days after publication. Detailed requirements and evaluation criteria are outlined in the NOFO. FRA will provide live technical assistance to applicants before the deadline.

Further information about the R&E Program can be found on FRA’s website.