Illinois grant to help improve safety, security of OmniTRAX line

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A grant from the state of Illinois will help fund safety and security improvements along the OmniTRAX-managed Peru Industrial Railroad in Peru, Ill.

The $2.64-million grant is from the Illinois Competitive Freight Program, which is administered by Illinois Department of Transportation. The project, Peru Intermodal, Safety, Congestion, and Energy Security Project (PISCES), aims to improve and enhance safety and security of the three-mile shortline, which providing switching services for the Peru Industrial Park, part of the City of Peru Enterprise Zone.

“We have been working closely with the city of Peru for several months to ensure the project meets everyone’s goals of a safer rail line that is positioned to grow in support of the local economy. We appreciate the efforts of Mayor Scott Harl and his team and look forward to making this project a reality that will dramatically improve the community,” said Kevin Shuba, CEO of OmniTRAX.

OmniTRAX and the city of Peru will fund 40 percent of the project’s expected cost of $4.4 million with the Illinois Competitive Freight Program funds covering 60 percent of the cost.

“The city of Peru is committed to building public-private partnerships that benefit our region and the investment we’re making with the Peru Industrial Railroad is a great example of that. When complete, this project will make it safer and easier for companies to do business in and around the City of Peru,” said Peru Mayor Scott Harl.

Illinois released the recipients of the 2018 Illinois Competitive Freight Program funds in June. Many grade separations will benefit from the funds, as will the Terminal Railroad Association, which received a $1.93 million grant.