The FRA administers grants to support passenger railroads for both operations and capital improvement. The majority of funding for intercity passenger rail is provided through three major programs – Grants to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak), the Capital Assistance to States – Intercity Passenger Rail Program, and the Next Generation High Speed Rail Program. FRA also administers the Rail Line Relocation Program for rail improvement projects that involve a lateral or vertical line relocation and also mitigate the adverse effects of rail traffic on safety, motor vehicle traffic flow, community quality of life, or economic development.

FRA administers grants with funding appropriated for specific projects or grantees. Examples of such funding recipients have been the Alaska Railroad, CSX Transportation Inc., the Pennsylvania Station Redevelopment Authority, and various states. While most regional or commuter railroads receive federal assistance from the Federal Transit Administration, specific projects may be designated to receive appropriated funds through the FRA. 

FRA also administers the Railroad Rehabilitation and Investment Financing Program (RRIF) that offers various loan enhancements. The Federal Highway Administration also administers the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act Program (TIFIA) which is available for rail related projects. Funding is also available for research and development projects related to both passenger and freight rail.

For more information click on the links below:

Amtrak

Grant Program - Intercity Passenger Rail Investment

Rail Line Relocation Grant Program

Alaska Railroad