Gov. Walker approves $7.6 million in freight rail loan awards

MADISON (WITI) -- Governor Scott Walker announced Friday, August 9th four state awards totaling $7,605,081 to improve rail infrastructure and support economic growth.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is administering the awards through its Freight Railroad Infrastructure Improvement Program (FRIIP). As a revolving loan program, FRIIP awards are provided to private industries, railroads and local governments.

Loans are used to improve rail infrastructure, highway/grade crossings and construct new rail-served facilities. The program’s overall goal is to boost economic development and jobs. As FRIIP loans are repaid, the dollars help fund new projects. The 2014 loan awards include:

Since 1993, WisDOT has provided more than $117 million in FRIIP loans.