Railroad Revolving Loan Grant Program (RRLG)
The Railroad Revolving Loan Grant Program (RRLG) from the Iowa Department of Transportation funds rail infrastructure enhancements, network upgrades, and planning studies to strengthen Iowa’s rail system.
Funder: Iowa Department of Transportation
Due Dates: Applications accepted year-round; annual review cycle (typically after state legislative adjournment)
Funding Amounts: Grants: up to $12,000/job (targeted job creation) or $100,000 (rail port studies); Loans: 0% interest, up to 10 years; annual total awards $3.9–$6.3M historically
Summary: Supports Iowa rail infrastructure, network improvements, and planning studies to drive economic growth and rail service.
Key Information: A local match is required for all funding; grants are highly competitive and subject to annual funding availability.
Description
The Railroad Revolving Loan Grant Program (RRLG), administered by the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), provides financial assistance to enhance Iowa's rail infrastructure. The program funds three primary project types:
- Targeted job creation: Rail projects that directly create or retain jobs, requiring job and wage commitments.
- Rail network improvement: Projects that maintain or upgrade existing rail lines and industrial access (loans only).
- Rail port planning and development: Feasibility or planning studies for potential new rail port facilities (grants only).
The RRLG aims to stimulate economic development, support industrial growth, and improve the efficiency and reach of Iowa's rail system.
