LANSING, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, June 9, 2023) – The Hamilton Spur is getting a long-overdue overhaul.
On Friday, the state Department of Transportation announced the first round of recipients for the 2023 Michigan Rail Enhancement Grant Program. The rail spur from Holland to Hamilton, operated by the Hamilton Northwestern Railway Company, will receive nearly $1.6 million to help defray a nearly $2.3 million cost for a transload facility and tie replacement.
The program, begun last year, aims to reimburse up to 70 percent of project costs associated with railroad track, bridges, grade crossings, rail scales to weigh freight cars on mainline corridors and at rail yards, intermodal facilities, and transload facilities.
“We are honored to be selected to partner with MDOT as they work to improve, expand, and rehabilitate freight rail corridors throughout Michigan. Once completed, these projects will deliver an immediate benefit to local communities and the region. These infrastructure enhancement projects will significantly minimize the amount of time railroad crossings are blocked, as well as provide public access for companies to utilize rail, who currently do not have access to freight rail services. The new public access site is expected to take as many as 8,000-10,000 long haul trucks off Michigan roads each year, which will reduce congestion and road deterioration on Michigan highways, as well as eliminate unnecessary truck CO2 emissions. The Michigan Rail Enhancement Grant Program is a perfect example of public private partnerships that deliver true lasting benefits to Michigan communities.” – Mike Hnatiuk, director of Marketing for the West Michigan Railroad Co. and the Hamilton Northwestern Railroad Co.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for growth in West Michigan and the agriculture industry. Making these types of smart investments in our rail systems will unlock new levels of production and improve logistics across the board.” – State Sen. Roger Victory (R-Hudsonville)
A total of $19 million was awarded to 12 projects that will help leverage $48 million in other investments.
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