Friday, June 06, 2008 (Washington, D.C.)

News Digest 

FRA Grant Aids Development of Emergency Response Training . The Federal Railroad Administration is providing a $250,000 grant to the Southeastern Transportation Safety Center in Meridian, Miss. to develop emergency response strategies and provide comprehensive, in-depth training to police, fire, rescue and other personnel who respond to train accidents, natural disasters, and possible acts of terrorism. Specific work being funded by the grant will address emergency response preparedness for: events involving passenger trains; serious train incidents that occur in rural areas; chemical, biological and radiological incidents related to rail and intermodal transportation; and the development of a Common Incident Management System for first responders in the southeastern region of the United States. Contact: Steve Kulm (202) 493-6024

FRA Sets June 30 Deadline for Intercity Passenger Rail State Capital Grant Applications. The Federal Railroad Administration has set June 30, 2008 as the deadline for applications to be considered in the first round of awards for the new Intercity Passenger Rail State Capital Grant program. The $30 million program is designed to support state efforts to improve intercity passenger rail service and requires a 50-50 funding match. Projects that demonstrate an on-time performance standard of 80 percent or greater, reduce travel time, increase service frequency, or enhance service quality for intercity rail passengers will receive favorable consideration for funding. Subsequent rounds of awards will depend on the availability of any remaining funds. The Bush Administration requested the creation of this grant program and is seeking $100 million for the program in FY09. Click here for more information. Contact: Rob Kulat (202) 493-6024.

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