The Providence and Worcester Railroad Co. has been awarded $2.38 million in federal grant funds for track improvements along its Gardner branch rail line, a project that will reduce the risk of derailments that could impact Worcester’s drinking water supply.
Approximately 12 miles of track along the Gardner branch will be rehabilitated with the U.S. Department of Transportation funds, and new continuous welded rail and ties will be installed, according to Congressman Jim McGovern (D-Worcester). The grant to the Worcester-based company was announced on Tuesday.
The grant will improve safety and protect drinking water, and also create new jobs in construction and engineering.
“The Providence & Worcester Railroad has helped to keep our region’s businesses connected for decades and this funding will provide a critical update to the Gardner Branch rail line,” said McGovern in a press release.
The railroad is set to be acquired for $126 million by Genesee & Wyoming, Inc., which operates rail lines in Massachusetts and Connecticut.
