FY26-23-CCD-New_Haven_Line_Improvements New Haven Line - Track Speed Improvement Phase 1

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), operating under the U.S. Department of Transportation, administers the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program to enhance the safety, efficiency, and reliability of both passenger and freight rail systems across the nation. Through this initiative, the FRA funds projects that reduce congestion, modernize rail infrastructure, and promote a more sustainable transportation network. The FY26-23-CCD-New Haven Line – Track Speed Improvement Phase 1 grant reflects this commitment by targeting one of the busiest rail corridors in the United States, the New Haven Line, a critical component of the Northeast rail network serving Connecticut and surrounding regions. This specific opportunity, issued as a Congressionally Directed award under CFDA 20.337, seeks to implement the first phase of track speed enhancements along the New Haven Line. The improvements are designed to increase maximum train speeds, reduce delays, and strengthen overall service reliability for both passenger and freight operations. Eligible expenditures under this award include construction and infrastructure upgrades related to rail track alignment, signal systems, and safety features necessary to achieve higher operating performance standards. The FRA anticipates that successful implementation will contribute to long-term economic growth and improved connectivity across regional transportation networks. Applications for this funding opportunity must be submitted electronically through GrantSolutions. New applicants will receive an automatically generated account upon posting of the announcement, while returning grantees may log in using existing credentials. All required forms, including the SF-424 series and associated construction assurances, must be completed and uploaded as part of the application package. Applicants are also required to submit a detailed construction budget narrative and a statement of work outlining the project’s scope, deliverables, and expected impact. Cost sharing or matching funds are mandatory under this program. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to meet the required match through state or local funding sources, or other eligible contributions. The FRA will evaluate submissions based on project readiness, technical merit, cost effectiveness, and alignment with the broader goals of the CRISI program. Because this particular notice specifies that the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is the sole eligible applicant, the program will not accept applications from other entities. The official closing date for applications is October 30, 2025, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. The total estimated funding available for this opportunity is $12,000,000, with one award anticipated. Administrative and budgetary inquiries may be directed to Jonne’sha Riggs in the Office of the Railroad Chief Financial Officer at 771-201-1113 or Jonnesha.Riggs@dot.gov. Technical questions or programmatic assistance should be addressed to Moshe Adams of the Grant & Loan Program Development Division at 202-836-3557 or Moshe.Adams@dot.gov. GrantSolutions technical support can also be reached at help@grantsolutions.gov. Based on the program’s recurring nature, similar opportunities may be expected annually as funding continues to support infrastructure improvement along major rail corridors.