State Coalition Seeks Fed Aid for Intermodal Terminals

Five states have formed a coalition to seek a federal grant to build intermodal terminals and make other improvements along the Norfolk Southern Railroad line stretching from New Orleans to New York City.

The states are Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi and Virginia. The grant request is for $300 million for the project known as the Crescent Corridor Intermodal Freight Program.

According to the grant application, the plan would reduce the number of trucks on highways, subsequently, cutting traffic and greenhouse gas emissions.

The federal TIGER grants — for transportation investment generating economic recovery — are part of the economic stimulus legislation passed earlier this year by Congress.

The grants are for highway, railway and port projects that promote U.S. economic competitiveness, safety, livability and sustainability.

By Michele Fuetsch
Staff Reporter