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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.

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.

Michigan Rail Loan Assistance Program

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 FY 2025 MiRLAP application.

MDOT is not accepting applications at this time.

Michigan Rail Enhancement Grant Program

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 FY 2025 M-REP application and frequently asked questions.

MDOT is not accepting applications at this time.

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