Durbin, Duckworth Announce More Than $15.2 Million for Keokuk Junction Railway Improvements

Durbin, Duckworth Announce More Than $15.2 Million for Keokuk Junction Railway Improvements

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced $15,268,018 forthe Keokuk Junction Railway (KJRY) through the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program to develop, design, and construct activities to complete various track-related improvements in an effort to rehabilitate KJRY's 126-mile mainline. The project will increase track safety standards, resulting in increased operating speeds and more efficient operations

"The Keokuk Junction Railway has been a lifeline for our communities, transporting goods, fostering economic growth, and connecting us to the broader national network," said Durbin. "In order to maintain its relevance and enhance its contribution to our state's economy, significant improvements are needed. This federal investment will transform KJRY into a model of modern efficiency and a catalyst for prosperity for Illinois."

"I supported the Keokuk Junction Railway project because I know this federal investment will help improve safety, create local jobs and support our state's economy, particularly in rural Illinois," said Duckworth. "I'm glad to help announce this investment and will keep working to make sure Illinois has the federal support it needs."

The Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 omnibus appropriations bill, which Durbin and Duckworth supported, included $625 million for grants through the CRISI program. This program funds projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.

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