FRA Awards $2.04bn CRISI Funding for U.S. Rail Infrastructure Modernization

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced $2.04bn in federal funding through the Federal Railroad Administration's Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program on April 20, 2026, targeting comprehensive modernization of American rail infrastructure for both passenger and freight operations.

This funding represents the largest single CRISI allocation to date, signaling the Biden administration's continued commitment to rail infrastructure renewal. The program addresses critical gaps in network capacity, safety systems, and operational efficiency that have constrained both Amtrak services and freight movements across major corridors. Recipients will implement projects spanning electrification, positive train control upgrades, bridge replacements, and terminal modernization.

The CRISI program distributes grants through competitive selection, with projects evaluated on safety improvements, economic benefits, and network connectivity enhancements. Federal matching requirements typically range from 20% to 50%, depending on project type and applicant category. State departments of transportation, freight railroads, passenger rail operators, and regional transportation authorities qualify for funding across multiple project categories.

Previous CRISI rounds have funded major initiatives including the Portal North Bridge replacement in New Jersey, Chicago Union Station improvements, and various grade separation projects. This allocation continues the program's expansion under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which authorized increased annual CRISI funding through 2026. The announcement follows recent federal investments in high-speed rail development and Amtrak fleet modernization, positioning rail as a central component of national transportation policy.