Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-22) today voted in favor of the bipartisan Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act, which passed the House 316-101.  The bill authorizes $150 million for railroad safety programs, a provision pushed by Frankel in the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee.  Earlier in the day, Frankel took to the House floor to champion this bill that improves rail safety in our communities, invests in our infrastructure, and strengthens our economy.  Click here to watch her full remarks.

“With freight and passenger traffic growing, we need improved safety and other mitigation efforts to protect our communities,” said Frankel.  “Transportation moves our economy and this bill allows it to be done safely and efficiently in South Florida and across the nation.”

Railways have a multibillion dollar impact on Florida’s economy. In South Florida, port expansions, growing Tri-Rail service, and the construction of All Aboard Florida will increase freight and passenger train traffic.  In anticipation, local stakeholders have been calling for measures to reduce train noise, increase safety, and improve traffic coordination.

The legislation authorizes $150 million per year through the Rail Line Relocation and Improvement Grant Program to help state and local governments upgrade safety features at grade crossings and improve traffic coordination to prevent accidents and ease congestion. Eligible projects include warning lights, stop signs, traffic light coordination, and four quadrant gates.  Both Broward and Palm Beach Metropolitan Planning Organizations plan to apply for this grant program.

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