Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) revealed today that the U.S. Department of Transportation will provide $29,563,000 in federal funding to the Paducah & Louisville Railway (P&L). This grant is made possible through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which is funded by the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 government funding bill and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

P&L intends to utilize this grant to make several strategic investments that will enhance the efficiency and timeliness of its rail operations. These investments include rehabilitating locomotives, upgrading the track and signal system, and replacing twenty-three bridges along P&L’s 280-mile main rail line.

Senator McConnell, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, played a pivotal role in supporting P&L’s grant application and advocating for CRISI funding in the federal government appropriations bill and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“Kentucky’s railroads have been a cornerstone of our state’s growth for generations, and with our economy quickly diversifying, it's crucial that our railways not only keep up but leap ahead. I’ve been proud to partner with local stakeholders to fund infrastructure improvements to the Paducah & Louisville Railway, an essential artery in Kentucky that transports everything from coal to raw materials for our nation’s defense equipment,” said U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell. “Today’s federal funds will help ensure our railways are speedy, efficient, and safe for years to come.”

Paducah & Louisville Railway Chairman, President, and CEO Tom Greene expressed excitement about the significant federal investment. He stated, “Paducah & Louisville Railway is thrilled to see this significant federal investment awarded today. Thanks to this funding, P&L is strongly positioned to overhaul and upgrade our rail infrastructure, laying the groundwork for future economic development throughout Kentucky. We are grateful for Senator McConnell, who helped secure today’s federal grant, and for the opportunity to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our state.”

To learn more about the Paducah & Louisville Railway, visit their official website.

For additional information about the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, please visit the U.S. Department of Transportation's website.

To stay updated on Senator McConnell's initiatives and activities, visit his official website.