The city of Columbia Utilities will get $3.2 million from the U.S. Department of Commerce to improve railroad infrastructure in the area and support commercial growth, the city said in a news release Wednesday.
The grant, along with a $800,000 match from the city, will be invested in the commercial freight rail corridor, the release said.
The improvements are targeted for a more than 8-mile stretch of track and will upgrade the current 90-pound rail to a 115-pound rail. Work will also replace defective ties and upgrade surfaces.
“These improvements will increase the resiliency and capacity of the railway and will allow the COLT Railroad to handle heavier loads for new and existing commercial customers,” said David Sorrell, director of the city of Columbia Utilities department, in the release. “The project will expand commercial freight opportunities, which will invite private investment in the city.”
