NCDOT receives $35.8 million for western North Carolina rail upgrades
Federal funds will modernize crossing signals and prepare infrastructure for passenger service between Salisbury and Asheville.
By Mateo Castillo ·
The North Carolina Department of Transportation secured $35.8 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation to advance rail infrastructure in the western part of the state.
Passenger rail service to western North Carolina ceased operations in 1975. A recent study indicated that restoring the line would generate economic benefits, create jobs, and improve public transit options for the region.
The NCDOT Rail Division announced the funding award on Friday. The money supports development and construction efforts aimed at improving safety and preparing the corridor for future service.
Specific projects include upgrading more than 40 highway-rail crossing signal systems along the route between Salisbury and Hickory. The goal is to replace or modernize existing equipment to protect vehicles and pedestrians at these intersections.
Once completed, the western North Carolina rail corridor is designed to link with the Charlotte region, the Piedmont area, and the Triangle. State Transportation Secretary Daniel Johnson stated that the funding reflects a strong partnership with federal agencies and the state's history of utilizing rail grants for tangible progress.
Johnson expressed gratitude to the Federal Railroad Administration for supporting a project that expands transportation choices for North Carolina residents. The NCDOT is currently collaborating with local communities to plan the rail service connecting Salisbury and Asheville.
Source: WLOS News 13
