Officials estimate a $10 million federal transportation grant to improve rail service between Rutland and Burlington will result in increased operating speeds of up to 40 mph for freight trains and nearly 60 mph for passenger trains.
The TIGER grant will help replace about 11 miles of track with new rail, ballast and ties; adding new gates for several public crossings; a passing lane for trains in Pittsford and crossover in Leicester to allow for operational flexibility.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $26.5 million.
The U.S. Department of Transportation included the project in its list of 39 nationwide released Thursday, although Vermont officials learned of the grant earlier this week.
A total of $500 million in grants is being made available for all of the projects.
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