The Ohio Rail Development Commission approved grant funding for two projects, money officials said is for critical improvements to existing rail infrastructure.
These projects account for nearly $1.6 million in rail infrastructure investment in both Richland and Guernsey Counties.
A $744,000 grant to Ashland Railway was approved by the commission to assist with the rehabilitation of four miles of mainline track along Ashland Railway’s Willard Line. This project represents Phase 2 of a three-phase plan to upgrade 12 miles of track along the line.
The railroad will install 7,000 ties, replace tie plates, and install ballast as part of this project. Approval of the grant assistance helps the railroad maintain safe and efficient rail operations along this line that serves various industries across north-central Ohio.
The total project investment is estimated at nearly $1.3 million.
Independence Rail Works, Ltd., a division of The Zemba Companies, was approved for a $190,000 grant for a rail rehabilitation project on roughly three miles of track located between Derwent and Pleasant City in Guernsey County.
Independence Rail Works plans to install ties and distribute more than 1500 tons of ballast. These improvements will help the company provide rail access to existing customers as well as attract new business to the area.
The total project investment is estimated at $380,000.
Other business conducted by the commission involved the appointment of an acting executive director due to the upcoming retirement of Executive Director Matthew Dietrich. Megan McClory, the rail commission’s secretary-treasurer, will serve as acting executive director while also continuing in her current role of secretary-treasurer.
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