FAYETTE COUNTY, Ohio (April 3, 2026) — A major rail improvement project impacting Fayette County is moving forward after receiving state grant support, as part of a broader effort to strengthen Ohio’s rail infrastructure.
The Ohio Rail Development Commission approved nearly $3.9 million in grant funding during its March 19 meeting, supporting multiple projects across the state. Officials say the funding will help generate more than $66 million in total infrastructure investment.
Fayette County Project Highlighted
Among the approved projects is a $46.5 million rail upgrade along the Indiana & Ohio Railway/WESTCO line, which runs from the Ohio-Michigan state line to Jeffersonville in Fayette County.
The commission approved $1.75 million in grant assistance for the project, which will allow for full double-stack intermodal container clearance — a key upgrade that improves efficiency for freight transportation and supports economic development in the region.
Additional Rail Investments Across Ohio
The commission also approved funding for several other projects, including:
- A $1 million grant for improvements to the Cincinnati Eastern Railroad mainline between Hamilton and Adams County
- A $700,000 grant to upgrade a portion of the Wabash rail line near the Indiana state line
- Smaller grants supporting local infrastructure, including a bridge replacement in Ross County and rail rehabilitation work in Adams County
In addition, the commission is partnering with railroads to pursue federal funding through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program, as well as future grade separation projects aimed at improving railroad crossing safety.
Focus on Safety and Economic Growth
Matthew Dietrich, executive director of the commission, said the investments reflect a continued commitment to both safety and economic development.
“Approval of these projects continues to demonstrate the Rail Commission’s commitment to improving rail safety and supporting development in Ohio,” Dietrich said. “We work very hard to maximize our resources for the benefit of communities in Ohio.”
Officials say the upgrades will help improve freight capacity, reduce transportation bottlenecks, and support job creation by ensuring reliable rail service for businesses across the state.
