Madison Railroad will receive a $4.2 million grant

Monday, June 10, 2019 at 10:57 AM

By Sen Young release

Project will rehabilitate the Graham Creek Bridge constructed in 1880

U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) announced that The Madison Railroad will receive a $4.2 million Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to rehabilitate the aging Graham Creek Bridge in southeastern Indiana. In March, Senator Young urged U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao to support funding for this project, which has been a top infrastructure priority for the region.

“As the Crossroads of America, it is critical to have a reliable rail network in Indiana for continued rural investments,” said Senator Young. “The modernized structure will not only expand transportation services and ensure the heaviest commercial freight carloads can be accommodated, but it will also foster sustained economic growth for the greater Madison community and the Hoosier state.”

“These investments in intercity passenger and freight rail will benefit surrounding communities, make grade crossings safer and improve service reliability,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.

U.S. Representative Greg Pence hailed the announcement. “I visited the Graham Creek Bridge before my election, where I met with the leadership of Madison and North Vernon to study this issue,” Rep. Pence said. “Replacement of this bridge will benefit southeast Indiana by removing a potential safety risk, creating new jobs and economic opportunity for Hoosiers.”

“The City of Madison Port Authority is elated at the news of the $4.2M CRISI grant awarded for the Graham Creek Bridge. We are humbled by the support we have received from Congressman Greg Pence,” said Cathy Hale, CEO of Madison Railroad. “Congressman Pence took the time to come and visit the aging bridge and see the issues first-hand, then presented a speech on the House floor urging his fellow members to support our project. It has truly been a pleasure working with all involved to bring our grant to fruition.”

This project will rehabilitate the Graham Creek Bridge constructed in 1880, which connects Jefferson and Jennings counties in rural southeast Indiana.