NJDOT Accepting Applications for Freight Rail Improvement Grants

The New Jersey Department of Transportation announced that it is now accepting applications through Oct. 10, for $25 million in FY 2026 grants to fund improvements to the existing freight transportation system and help make freight rail service more accessible to New Jersey businesses.

The Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP) funds capital improvements that result in the continuation of safe and economically viable rail freight services in the state. Grants are awarded through a competitive process, with an emphasis on projects that are significant to port commerce connectivity; eliminate rail freight missing links to New Jersey’s port facilities; and upgrade freight rail trackage to a 286,000-pound load-carrying capacity.

RFAP grants provide funding for up to 90% of the estimated cost of each project. Owners and/or operators of short line railroads in New Jersey who have an existing use and maintenance arrangement with the owner can apply.

Application proposals are accepted through the state’s online System for Administering Grants Electronically, SAGE. All applicants must have an Eligibility Assessment Form approved through the SAGE system before applying. An applicant can submit a maximum of two applications per fiscal year.

News and information sourced from ROI NJ.