North Dakota rail projects seek federal funds

Written by jrood

Senator John Hoeven (R-N.D.) met with BNSF CEO and president Matt Rose on Nov. 2, to discuss plans to rebuild a 20-mile span of track and two bridges near Churchs Ferry that serves Amtrak's Empire Builder line across northern North Dakota. The line serves both passenger and freight service through Devils Lake, Rugby, Minot, Fargo, Grand Forks, Stanley and Williston. The track was closed several times this spring due to flooding and high water. Rose earlier this year committed BNSF to funding one-third of the $100 million project and will also work with Amtrak to help finance another one-third. The state of North Dakota would need to provide the remaining third. Hoeven and the congressional delegation are working with state officials to help with the state's share through a Department of Transportation infrastructure grant program. Hoeven also spoke with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood in support of the state's application for $33 million in funding for the project through the federal competitive TIGER Grant Program. Hoeven told LaHood that the rail project more than meets the primary and secondary selection criteria for the program. "The Devils Lake rail project shares costs, demonstrating real collaboration among partners and serves both passenger service for Amtrak and freight service for BNSF," Hoeven said. "It clearly enhances economic competitiveness for the entire region and has both statewide and national benefits." Hoeven also spoke with LaHood in support of the state's application for funding to advance the Williston Bypass Project, which will route traffic around the city to relieve traffic congestion due to heightened oil industry activity in the region.  

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