Congressman Tim Kennedy announces $1.1 billion available for railroad crossing safety

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Congressman Tim Kennedy announced Thursday that $1.1 billion will be available as a part of the Railroad Crossing Elimination Program to improve railroad safety.

The RCE Program funds highway and pathway crossing improvement projects to strengthen safety and mobility. Eligible projects for the grant include grade separation, track relocation, and improvement or installation of protective devices, signals or signs.

A 29-year-old died in January of this year after her vehicle was hit by a train in North Tonawanda.

The funding comes almost two months after three people, 69-year-old David McMinn, 66-year-old Olive Geldart and 6-year-old Ra’Mari Geldart, were killed in another train accident in North Tonawanda.

“We all saw the tragic consequences of at-grade crossing collisions,” Congressman Kennedy said in a statement. “I urge eligible applicants to take advantage of this program before funding is exhausted. From the placement of tracks due to our region’s unique geography to aging infrastructure, railroad intersections can be dangerous."

Eligible applicants for the $1.1 billion include states, municipalities, Tribal governments, units of local government, public port authorities, and metropolitan planning organizations. Those interested in applying can click here.