The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced this week that nearly $53 million will be invested in 30 rail freight improvement projects across the state, including more than $3.4 million for two projects in Berks County.
The funding, awarded through the Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) and the Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP), is intended to improve freight mobility, support economic development, and create or sustain an estimated 450 jobs statewide.
In Berks County, the Berks County Redevelopment Authority will receive $2.6 million to replace 1,600 feet of existing track, construct 2,430 feet of new track, and build a siding to serve Boyertown Foundry. The project is aimed at improving rail access for the manufacturing facility and supporting ongoing industrial operations in the region.
H&K Group, Inc. will also receive $827,000 to rehabilitate and improve the track siding at its Birdsboro Quarry. The work is expected to enhance rail service reliability and efficiency for the quarry, which relies on rail freight to transport materials.
Statewide, PennDOT said the rail investments build on the Shapiro Administration’s broader efforts to strengthen Pennsylvania’s transportation infrastructure and economy. Since taking office in 2023, the administration has invested more than $150 million in the Commonwealth’s rail freight network. Pennsylvania is the only state in the country with a dedicated rail freight grant program.
“Pennsylvania’s rail freight network supports family sustaining jobs and connects Pennsylvania communities to the global economy while bolstering local economic development,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “These investments to expand and improve the network will create opportunities for generations of Pennsylvanians to come.”
Pennsylvania has 65 operating railroads, more than any other state, and approximately 5,600 miles of freight rail lines. PennDOT officials said the department continues to work with private rail operators and rail-served businesses to maintain existing infrastructure, construct new rail lines, and improve safety and efficiency throughout the system.
Across the state, the 30 funded projects span multiple counties and include rail replacement, bridge rehabilitation, grade crossing improvements, and the construction of new sidings and spurs to support industrial and commercial facilities.