U.S. Reps. Rodney Davis (IL-13) and Darin LaHood (IL-18) today announced that the City of Springfield has received a $19,800,000 federal Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant, formerly known as BUILD and TIGER grants, from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The grant is for the next phase of the Springfield Rail Project. You can read their letter of support to Secretary Buttigieg here.
The project will construct a new railroad grade separation overpass at North Grand Avenue over the Norfolk Southern and Illinois Midland rail lines. North Grand Avenue is one of the most heavily traveled roads across the northern part of Springfield and provides access to Lanphier High School and Robin Roberts Stadium.
Through the elimination of at-grade rail crossings this project will reduce delay-inducing congestion and provide safer passage through the city. The location of these improvements in particular will greatly enhance the safety and mobility for residents and students in northern and eastern Springfield. It will also allow for faster response times for first responders including ambulance, fire, and police.
“This is a major step towards completing the transformative Springfield Rail Improvements Project that I have been proud to advocate for over the last decade,” said Rep. Davis. “Springfield residents will have a safer, better drive and the goods we rely on will be able to make a smooth transit through town. Congressman LaHood and I have been strong advocates on behalf of the City in their pursuit of this grant. Congratulations to the citizens of Springfield.”
“The Springfield Rail Improvements Project is a key economic driver that creates jobs and further economic opportunity in the greater Springfield community,” said Rep. LaHood. “Since being elected to Congress, I have proudly partnered with Congressman Rodney Davis to support the City of Springfield and this rail improvements project. This award will not only support job growth for the community, it will also enhance public safety and improve traffic flow in downtown Springfield.”