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Freight Economic Development

Rail cars near a grain elevator.
Department of Transportation

Freight Economic Development

MDOT’s Office of Rail administers three programs to support Michigan’s rail system as an essential modal option for Michigan commodity movements. 

Questions? Contact Alex Nikoloff at 517-290-9691.

Rail Heritage and Preservation Program

MDOT is launching a one-time Railroad Heritage Preservation Program to help preserve and improve historic and heritage rail operations across the state. The program provides competitive grants to eligible nonprofit organizations to support capital improvements to existing rail infrastructure used for heritage or historical rail operations that promote Michigan railroad history.

Applications will be accepted through May 22, 2026.

Rail Heritage and Preservation application

Freight Economic Development Program

MDOT provides grants to rail customers to connect to or expand their use of the rail system. Grants cover up to 50 percent of rail customer infrastructure, like rail spurs, up to $2 million. For more information, refer to the Freight Economic Development application.

Applications are accepted at any time.

Freight Economic Development application

Michigan Rail Loan Assistance Program (MiRLAP)

MDOT provides no-interest loans to railroads for rail infrastructure preservation and improvements. Loans cover up to 90 percent of project costs, up to $2 million. For more information, refer to the MiRLAP application.

MDOT is not accepting applications at this time.

MiRLAP application

Michigan Rail Enhancement Grant Program (M-REP)

MDOT provides grants to railroads and owners of multi-user transload facilities to improve public safety, operational efficiency, system accessibility, system capacity and/or system condition. Grants cover up to 70 percent of eligible project costs up to $5 million. For more information on the program, refer to the M-REP application and frequently asked questions.

M-REP frequently asked questions (FAQs)

The next call for projects is planned for Fall 2026.

M-REP application