The state of Kansas has announced a significant investment of nearly $16.5 million in 17 short line rail expansion and rehabilitation projects aimed at bolstering its agricultural supply chain. This funding will be allocated through the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Rail Service Improvement Program (RSIP).
Collaborating with major grain handlers, Kansas plans to supplement state funding with a 30% match from each recipient, resulting in a total rail infrastructure investment exceeding $23.5 million. The RSIP received a total of 26 applications requesting over $39 million in costs through IKE, the state’s 10-year bipartisan transportation program.
Recipients of the RSIP funding will utilize the funds for expansion and capacity improvements, major track rehabilitation, and rail replacement. These efforts aim to enhance safety, expand carload capabilities, reduce truck traffic, increase operating speeds, and improve overall operating efficiencies within the rail network.
Kansas, known for its diverse agricultural landscape, produces a variety of grains and oilseeds including corn, wheat, sorghum, oats, barley, soybeans, sunflower, and canola.
Governor Laura Kelly emphasized the significance of these rail infrastructure improvements, noting their potential to uplift rural areas and maximize the economic impact across the entire state. By strengthening the agricultural supply chains, the administration aims to facilitate better connectivity for farmers and ranchers to regional, national, and international markets.
Among the selected projects for the state fiscal year 2024 through RSIP are expansions, capacity improvements, and major rehabilitations across various counties including Ford, Phillips, Cowley, Sherman, Sedgwick, and others. These projects reflect a concerted effort to modernize and optimize the rail infrastructure crucial.
