Federal Grants to Fund 25 Miles of New Track Around St. Cloud, Cold Spring, Rockville

(KNSI) — St. Cloud will get part of $28.6 million in U.S. Department of Transportation grants to improve railroad infrastructure, safety, and reliability in Minnesota.

Northern Lines Railway will receive $1.3 million to replace roughly 25 miles of track in and around St. Cloud, Cold Spring and Rockville. The new track will improve safety for trains carrying freight and hazardous materials. The railway will contribute a 35% cost share.

A news release announcing the grants says they will benefit producers, farmers and small businesses that rely on the railroad system to move goods, commodities and people. The money will replace aging track, boost efficiency and improve rail safety.

The funds come from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program within the department, which is partially funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, passed in 2021.

Twin Cities & Western Railroad Company will receive up to $22 million to buy 200 new rail grain cars and upgrade select track and rail infrastructure around Renville, Stewart, and Hector in Greater Minnesota. The upgrades are needed to handle larger, heavier grain cars, which will let farmers and producers sell more commodities at once. The railroad will contribute a 20% cost share.

Minnesota Commercial Railway will receive $5.36 million to replace worn track in Minneapolis, St. Paul and Roseville. The project will reduce the risk of derailment and improve the safety and reliability of passenger and freight service in the Twin Cities metro area. The railway will contribute a 20% cost share.

___