U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $19,728,000 in federal funding to improve the Metro-North Railroad (MNR) Harlem Line in Westchester, Dutchess, and Putnam Counties. This federal funding was awarded through the Commuter Authority Rail Safety Improvement (CARSI) grant program to support construction projects to improve safety and eliminate hazards at public railway-highway crossings.
“When it comes to risky rail crossings, which have led to tragedy here in Hudson Valley, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” said Senator Schumer. “As ridership on public transit begins to rise again, we must ensure that safety priorities for Hudson Valley commuters and drivers are addressed. Today’s funding for the Harlem Line will address risky rail crossings and make sure the federal government is on track with safety and being a good conductor.”
“I am pleased to announce this critical investment in safety enhancements for Metro-North Railroad,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding will address safety hazards across the Harlem Line railway and replace worn technology and existing crossing structures that pose public safety risks for commuters and drivers who pass through these rail crossings. COVID-19 has severely impacted New York’s public transportation systems, and this funding will keep our railways on track in preparation for the return to high volumes of travelers.”
Teaming up with Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the New York State Department of Transportation and Metro-North Railroad received $19,728,000 to upgrade and replace worn at-grade crossing warning systems at nine crossings along the MNR Harlem Line in Westchester, Dutchess and Putnam Counties.