Florida DOT receives $356M grant for safety improvements

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has been awarded a $356 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to improve safety at over 900 commuter-rail crossings statewide.

The FRA awarded the grant through its National Railroad Partnership Program, which funds capital projects that improve and expand intercity passenger rail service across the country.

The grant, paired with a $100 million investment from the state of Florida, will be used to help install safety improvements throughout the state by reducing conflict points, adding more physical barriers, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion, officials said.

“This is truly a transformational opportunity for rail safety in Florida. FDOT’s bold and aggressive approach will improve safety and save lives for years to come,” said FDOT Secretary Jared Perdue. “Thank you to FRA for supporting our vision with this funding and helping to accelerate these major improvements to rail corridors across the state.”

Examples of planned improvements include: 

• Upgrade of pedestrian-activated warning systems, including lights, gates and audible warnings;
• Refinement and enhancement of pavement markings included at grade crossings;
• Installation of overhead-mounted signals at crossings;
• Enhancement of lighting at crossings to heighten visibility; and
• Installation of new signage and warning signs Installation of physical barriers, such as double gates.