The FY23 Metter-Register Rail Upgrades grant, funded by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) under the U.S. Department of Transportation, is a Congressionally-directed project aimed at improving rail infrastructure in Georgia. This initiative focuses on upgrading 12.3 miles of the Georgia Southern short line freight track, covering the stretch between Mile Post 73.65 and Mile Post 85.95. The proposed upgrades are part of a strategic effort to support regional freight rail systems by improving safety, efficiency, and structural reliability.
The project's primary objective is the rehabilitation of essential rail infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable operations. Key activities include replacing a metal culvert and repairing 32 steel H-piles on a bridge located at MP 84.0. Additionally, safety improvements will be implemented at two community road crossings between Metter and Register, Georgia. These enhancements are intended to enable safe daytime train speeds of up to 10 miles per hour, promoting reliable operations and reducing potential hazards in the surrounding communities.
The funding for this grant is administered as a discretionary grant through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program. The total estimated program funding is $1,126,000, with both the award ceiling and floor specified as $1,126,000 and $0 respectively. Matching funds are required, though the specific amount or percentage required is not detailed in the notice.
Eligibility for this funding opportunity is exclusive. Only the Candler County Industrial Authority may apply, as it is a Congressionally-directed grant. This specificity means that no other organizations, public or private, are eligible to submit an application. The narrow eligibility underscores the targeted nature of this rail improvement effort within a defined geographic area.
Applicants must submit their completed applications through Grants.gov. The original application deadline was February 28, 2025, but it has since been extended to April 25, 2025. The grant posting was first made on January 23, 2025, with the archive date set for May 25, 2025. The grant is not recurring and is not offered on a rolling basis.
The grant does not provide detailed evaluation criteria or specific application questions in the synopsis. Interested parties should refer to the full grant announcement available through the link provided in the notice for further guidance. For technical support related to accessing the application or announcement, applicants may contact the GrantSolutions Help Desk during standard business hours.
