WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $13,670,000 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)’s FY 20 Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Grant Program to install over 70 miles of rail and other infrastructure upgrades for the Buckingham Branch Railroad North Mountain Subdivision line between Charlottesville and Clifton Forge, Virginia.

“We’re pleased to announce these federal funds to make much-needed improvements on the rails and bridges that will improve efficiency and reliability for this rail system,” said the Senators. “These improvements will also help local industries transport their freight and bolster economic development opportunities in the region.”

The Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Grant Program funds projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail. Specifically, the federal funding will go towards upgrading 70 miles of rail, associated ballast, upgrades to 14 grade crossings and 5 bridges, constructing new drain systems in the Afton tunnel liner to reduce ice buildup, and improving clearances in two additional tunnels on Class III Buckingham Branch Railroad’s rail line.

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