As part of a statewide effort to attract new industry to North Carolina, the N.C. Department of Transportation's Rail Industrial Access Program uses state funds to help build or refurbish railroad tracks that a new or expanding industry needs.
This funding helps ensure that companies have safer, modernized railroad tracks so freight can deliver their goods and services more effectively and efficiently.
Funding for the projects is contingent upon application approval prior to:
- The industry making its decision to locate or expand a facility in North Carolina
- Matching funds from private and or local sources.
Local governments, community development agencies, railroad companies and industries are eligible to apply.
Approval of requests is based on the project's economic benefits, including the number of potential new jobs, the amount of capital investment, rail use and the area's economic conditions.