Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP)

The Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP), administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), is a state-level capital budget funding mechanism designed to support the development and improvement of rail freight infrastructure. Managed by PennDOT’s Bureau of Rail, Freight, Ports, and Waterways, RTAP funding is available only to applicants whose projects are specifically listed in a Capital Budget Act. This unique structure means that applicants must work with their state legislators to secure a dedicated line item in the state budget in order to be eligible for funding. RTAP aims to strengthen Pennsylvania's rail freight network by supporting capital improvements that contribute to economic development and improve the efficiency and safety of rail transportation. The program prioritizes projects that offer public benefits and align with the state’s broader transportation and economic goals. Eligible projects can include upgrades to track infrastructure, rehabilitation of rail yards, installation of new signals, and other capital-intensive rail improvements. Funding under RTAP is limited to 70% of the total project cost, with the remaining 30% to be covered by the applicant. Additionally, the state funding amount is capped at the value specified in the line item of the Capital Budget Act. This cost-sharing structure encourages applicants to demonstrate financial commitment to their proposed projects while maximizing the reach of state investment. The specific amount available varies depending on the legislative appropriation for each project. Applications must be submitted through Pennsylvania’s eGrants system. Following submission, applicants are invited to present their proposals in person to the Bureau in Harrisburg. These presentations provide an opportunity to elaborate on project scope, expected outcomes, and alignment with program goals. The Bureau then uses an objective review process to recommend projects for approval by the State Transportation Commission (STC). For the 2024 cycle, applications were accepted through September 1, 2024, and award announcements are typically made in December. Although the RTAP program does not have an automatically recurring application cycle, its implementation is closely tied to legislative activity, which may follow an annual or biennial pattern depending on the state’s capital planning process. The RTAP does not provide a standard performance period or post-award technical assistance details in its overview materials. All applicants are encouraged to engage their legislative representatives early in the process to ensure inclusion in the Capital Budget Act. Because a qualifying line item is a prerequisite, securing legislative sponsorship is the critical first step in accessing RTAP funding.

Applicants should secure legislative sponsorship early to be included in the Capital Budget.