2026 Rail Freight Grant Program
Forecasted
The 2026 Rail Freight Grant Program supports Pennsylvania rail freight operators and infrastructure users with maintenance and construction projects to preserve service and foster economic development.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to 70% of eligible project costs; applicants provide at least 30% in non-State funds
Summary: PennDOT supports maintenance and construction of Pennsylvania rail freight infrastructure to preserve service and stimulate economic development.
Key Information: Grantees must maintain and use completed improvements for rail freight service for 15 years.
Description
PennDOT’s 2026 Rail Freight Grant Program is part of its work to support Pennsylvania’s rail freight network and promote economic development. The Bureau of Rail, Freight, Ports, and Waterways administers two rail infrastructure funding programs: the Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP) and the Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP).
The programs fund capital maintenance and construction of freight or intermodal rail infrastructure. Their goals are to preserve essential rail freight service where economically feasible and to preserve or stimulate economic development through new or expanded service. RFAP draws on the Multimodal Transportation Fund and Unconventional Gas Well Fee; RTAP draws on the Capital Budget. Funding is subject to annual authorization.
