IDOT Rail Freight Program
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) administers the Rail Freight Program (RFP). Lake County Partners is a conduit for this program.
| Program Details |
| Purpose: |
The purpose of the RFP is to provide capital assistance to communities, railroads and shippers to preserve and improve rail freight service in Illinois. The program helps facilitate investments in rail service by serving as a link between interested parties and channeling government funds to projects that achieve statewide economic development. |
| Eligibility: |
Any projects with the greatest potential for improving access to markets and maintaining transportation cost savings, and where state participation will leverage private investments to foster permanent solutions to rail service problems. |
| Non-eligible: |
Not Applicable |
| Loan/Grant Amount: |
IDOT will generally provide low interest loans to finance rail improvements and, in some cases, provide grants. |
| Fees: |
Not applicable. |
| Application Process: |
Requests for RFP funds should be sent to the Bureau of Railroads. For assistance with the process, contact Bill Whitmer, Vice President of Economic Development, Lake County Partners at (847) 247-0137 or wwhitmer@lakecountypartners.com. |
| Job Criteria: |
There are no statutory requirements for job creation or retention numbers. The Department handles each project utilizing a benefit/cost ratio to evaluate potential rail freight projects. |
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