The Arkansas Midland Railroad is capable of running on short lines such as the one in McGhee.
The U.S. Department of Transportation announced Thursday that a $10.5 million grant will be awarded to southeast Arkansas through the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America program.
“This significant federal investment will improve a shortline railroad in southeastern Arkansas, so that people in Arkansas will be better connected, and to enhance safety and economic growth,” said Secretary Elaine Chao in a news release.
The Southeast Arkansas Economic Development District and its partners will use the funds to rehabilitate a 91.3-mile continuous short line railroad corridor between McGehee and Tallulah, Louisiana. The proposed project would include upgrading 91 miles of track to Class 2 capacity, seven bridge upgrades, and extending short line rail access to the Port of Lake Providence and Madison Parish Port in Louisiana.
Restoring the route to Class 2 standards will allow it to handle travel of up to 25 mph and modern, full-size, 286,000-pound rail car loads.
The project will enhance productivity, provide better and more efficient service to current shippers, and make the line more attractive to other shippers, according to the release.
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