The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a grant through their Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Grant Program that will improve railroad safety in LaPorte County.
The $2,831,705 grant has been awarded to Chicago South Shore and South Bend Railroad and will be used to upgrade 7.5 miles of rail between Michigan City and the City of La Porte. According to the project description, the project will support freight delivery efficiency and community safety by replacing the existing 90-pound track with 115-pound track. This upgrade will ensure the safe transportation of materials and improve the reliability and efficiency of the railroad.
Congressman Pete Visclosky (D-IN-1) stated, “Rail safety is of paramount concern to residents in LaPorte County and throughout Northwest Indiana, and I congratulate the Chicago South Shore and South Bend Railroad for successfully identifying and utilizing this federal grant program. I am pleased that their initiative will further improve the safety and efficiency of the Northwest Indiana railroad system, which ultimately improves our quality of place and attracts new people and businesses to our region.”
Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (R-IN-2) stated, “In northern Indiana, a safe and reliable rail system plays a critical role in driving our economy and making our region attractive to job creators. This important investment will upgrade our local rail infrastructure to help businesses transport goods more efficiently and to make our communities safer.”
Mr. Todd Bjornstad, President of the Chicago South Shore and South Bend Railroad, stated, “By making these improvements to our track, we will be able to enhance the safety and reliability of the service we provide to our customers. This project will also ensure we have the ability to meet future business growth needs in LaPorte County.”
For additional information from the U.S. Department of Transportation, click here.