$2.04B Federal CRISI Rail Grants Now Open for 2025-2026

S. 04 billion in Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grants covering fiscal years 2025 and 2026. This represents a continued commitment to rail infrastructure investment, with the program having distributed nearly $6 billion since 2017. The funding targets short-line railroads, regional rail operators, and passenger rail services, supporting projects aimed at reducing congestion, improving safety, and stimulating ridership growth.

Supply chain professionals should recognize this as a strategic funding opportunity for rail operators seeking to modernize infrastructure and enhance operational efficiency. With FRA Administrator David Fink noting that CRISI applications are "chronically oversubscribed"—meaning demand significantly exceeds available funding—competition will be intense. This suggests that only the most compelling infrastructure projects with clear safety, efficiency, or capacity benefits will secure awards, making strategic project selection critical for applicant railroads. The deadline of June 22, 2026, provides adequate lead time for organizations to prepare comprehensive applications.

For supply chain planners relying on rail transport, these infrastructure investments could translate into improved service reliability, reduced transit times, and enhanced freight capacity on regional and short-line corridors over the next 3-5 years. Tracking funded projects in key corridors will help shippers identify capacity improvements and potential network optimization opportunities.