Kentucky Invests in Rail Safety, Industrial Development Projects
The funding is from the Kentucky Rail Crossing Improvement (KRCI) program “to improve safety and traffic flow at public rail crossings by adding or upgrading warning devices,” and from the Kentucky Industrial Access and Safety Improvements (KIASI) program to “strengthen rail connectivity, improve service to existing industries, enhance on-time performance, and support economic development and new investment,” grant administrator Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reported Jan. 8.
The KRCI grants, totaling $1.6 million, were awarded for projects in Central and Western Kentucky, ranging from signal and light improvements at crossings to the addition of raised curb medians with delineators to improve traffic flow. Paducah & Louisville Railway (P&L) received $776,831 for three projects at crossings in Hardin and Grayson counties; Norfolk Southern received $20,162 for one project in Jefferson County; R.J. Corman received $455,554 for two projects in Franklin and Logan counties; and the Bourbon County fiscal court received $347,454 for one project.
The KRCI program covers up to 80% of eligible project costs.
The two KIASI projects, totaling nearly $1.4 million, will rehabilitate and reactivate 6,400 feet of track in Jefferson County for Louisville 2900 LLC; and will pave 26,500 square feet of asphalt for an access road, and pour 41,700 square feet of concrete for an area designated for storage and for loading and unloading railcars in Daviess County for the Owensboro Riverport Authority.
The KIASI program, operated in collaboration with Kentucky’s Cabinet for Economic Development, provides 50% matching funds for projects.
“Reliable rail infrastructure keeps people moving and commerce flowing,” Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray said. “These investments provide peace of mind, enhance economic activity and improve safety for all Kentuckians.”
“These upgrades will not only help protect motorists and rail crews but also strengthen the infrastructure that supports Kentucky’s economy—improving efficiency for freight movement, reducing delays, and strengthening Kentucky’s connection to national and global markets,” said Tom Greene, President and CEO of P&L. “By investing in modern technology and contributing our own matching funds, P&L remains committed to ensuring safe, efficient rail service that helps drive growth, attract industry, and keep Kentucky competitive. P&L is grateful to Gov. [Andy] Beshear and the General Assembly for their continued support of the KRCI program.”
“Through the leadership of our Governor and legislators, this KIASI Grant program is helping ports and industries statewide expand rail capacity for current and future growth,” commented Brian Wright, President and CEO of the Owensboro Riverport Authority. “The Owensboro Riverport Authority is honored to receive this grant and looks forward to continuing to support industrial growth and job creation in western Kentucky.”
Separately, Railway Age is inviting all Class II and III railroads to submit entries for its annual Short Line and Regional Railroad of the Year awards competition. The deadline is Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET.
