Freight Economic Development (Rail Freight) Grants

The Freight Economic Development Program (FEDP) helps connect new or expanding businesses to Michigan's rail system. The program's goal is to enhance the viability of Michigan's rail system by facilitating its use. Applicants must own, hold an easement, have a long-term lease, or otherwise control the property on which improvements are proposed. Eligible applicants include rail customers or entities, like local units of governments and railroads, that control the property and are undertaking the project to provide access to a rail customer. Eligible projects include the construction, repair, or rehabilitation of rail spurs or sidings, site preparation, turnouts, fixed rail scales, rail pits, crossings, and other fixed systems needed specifically to load/unload rail cars. Applications are accepted at any time and are evaluated based on increased rail volume to the state's rail system, job creation, job retention, public safety, impact to the local economy, and other public benefits. All projects must generate additional rail volume.