Nascent

Schumer announces federal funding for rail modernization in Central New York

Nascent/New York

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer recently announced substantial federal funding aimed at modernizing rail infrastructure in Central New York. Standing at the historic Old Susquehanna Train Station in Cortland County, Schumer revealed that $3,961,750 has been allocated from the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. This funding is designated for the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railway’s (NYSW) Main Line, a critical corridor stretching between Cortland and Onondaga counties.

This financial support marks the initiation of the third and final phase of a comprehensive rail modernization venture. Over the years, many of the rail tracks in this region have aged considerably, dating back to the early 1900s, thus necessitating significant repair and modernization efforts. The update aims to improve safety, reliability, capacity, and sustainability, aligning with the economic development plans for Central New York.

“The federal government has cleared the way for this essential modernization,” Schumer noted. “Nearly $4 million from my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law will enhance the railway’s safety and capacity. This ensures that major manufacturing projects, such as Micron’s significant $100 billion investment, can access the modern freight rail infrastructure they need.”

The funding originates from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. The total federal investment for NYSW’s project now stands at $10,360,220, encompassing previous fiscal years’ funding contributions—all secured through increased funding supported by Schumer’s initiatives.

James Bonner, President of NYSW, emphasized the significance of these investments, stating, “With steadfast support from Senator Schumer and local governments, we’re making transformative investments in Central New York’s rail infrastructure.”

Bob Haight, President, and CEO of the Cortland Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed gratitude, highlighting the expected regional benefits. According to Haight, the rail modernization will strengthen ties with Onondaga County’s burgeoning tech industry, attract new businesses, and help preserve local jobs.

The current phase of modernization will focus on upgrading more than 8 miles of existing rail, laying 3,000 tons of ballast and surfacing, and installing over 3,000 new ties. Specific rail upgrades will occur in the Cortland County towns of Homer and Preble, and the Onondaga County towns of Lafayette and Dewitt.

This project holds significant potential for economic development, reducing highway congestion, and improving transportation sustainability across the region. By shifting truck traffic to rail, it aims to decrease highway miles traveled, curb congestion, and lower emissions. In 2023 alone, over 10,749 loaded railcars traversed the project’s scope, equivalent to preventing nearly 37,000 tractor-trailer trips on highways.

The broader economic implications of this rail modernization emphasize Central New York’s connectivity to major projects across the state, including access to other major semiconductor development projects. The upgrades aim to maintain local workforce levels while creating new jobs during construction.

NYSW, which operates over 400 miles of track across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, serves 85 customers, transporting a diverse range of commodities. The Old Susquehanna Train Station, a significant historical site, continues to function as a community hub, contributing to Cortland’s regional significance.

Source: Noah Wire Services

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