(The Center Square) – Arizona will receive $60.2 million in federal taxpayer dollars for four railroad infrastructure projects throughout the state.
One of the projects is $3.3 million toward making the Grand Canyon Railway’s train go from running on diesel to “zero-emission battery-electric” system. In addition the Flagstaff Amtrak station was granted nearly $5 million for making it easier for those with disabilities to board trains, particularly building a new platform on the station’s south side.
“Arizona’s railroads are crucial to creating jobs, moving goods and connecting our communities,” Sen. Mark Kelly said in a statement. “This investment will make sure our rail infrastructure is safer, more efficient, and better prepared for the future. By strengthening our railroads, we’re enhancing safety for Arizonans and boosting economic growth.”
The hefty price tag on the projects is for railway efficiency in northwestern Arizona for Amtrak with $30 million, and the Arizona Eastern Railway Company is receiving nearly $22 million for constructing 34 miles of track and numerous other improvements. For the pricer projects, Amtrak and BNSF are matching 20% and the Arizona Eastern Railway Company is matching 30%, according to a news release.
The funds come from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements program through the Federal Railroad Administration.
This is not the first funding used for railway improvements recently in the Grand Canyon State. The Center Square reported that changes are expected at a major Grand Ave. intersection in West Phoenix, which includes a new bridge going over the BNSF railroad – the project, which has multiple facets, received $146 million in federal taxpayer dollars.
