South Raleigh News

Governor Roy Cooper announced that the North Carolina Railroad Company (NCRR) has secured a $105 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement Program (CRISI). This funding aims to enhance North Carolina’s rail infrastructure, focusing on both passenger and freight services in the state's busiest rail corridor.

The total project funding amounts to $170 million, combining the federal grant with contributions from NCRR, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), and Norfolk Southern. The project is expected to yield $214.49 million in public benefits, including economic growth, safety enhancements, and environmental improvements.

"Continued investment in passenger and commercial rail is good for our communities and economy across North Carolina," stated Governor Cooper. He expressed gratitude towards the Biden-Harris Administration and federal delegation for securing this investment.

Carl Warren, President and CEO of NCRR, remarked, "This is an extraordinary moment for North Carolina’s rail network." He emphasized that improved rail services will support one of the fastest-growing regions in the country.

Secretary of Transportation Joey Hopkins highlighted the importance of partnerships in transportation projects. "Having partners like NCRR and Norfolk Southern actively working on improvements... helps us achieve the vision of a convenient, accessible and reliable passenger rail network," he said.

The investments will enable increased ridership and new routes in North Carolina's passenger rail corridor. In early 2024, over 342,000 customers used NC By Train, marking a 20% increase compared to 2023. Currently, there are ten daily trains between Raleigh and Charlotte.

Federal funds are supplemented by state matches: $34 million from NCDOT, $17.8 million from NCRR, and $13 million from Norfolk Southern. Governor Cooper participated in the grant application process alongside North Carolina’s federal delegation.

Michael McClellan from Norfolk Southern expressed appreciation for partnering with NCRR on this significant investment. The Carolinian and Piedmont Passenger and Freight Improvements Project will upgrade seven locations including Raleigh and Greensboro. Construction is set to begin in 2025 after design phases are completed.

This initiative marks a major milestone in enhancing North Carolina's rail service infrastructure for future competitiveness and connectivity.

The CRISI Program aims to modernize America's freight and passenger rail infrastructure for safer movement of people and goods.