U.S. lawmakers recently announced new federal resources aimed at enhancing rail safety and addressing the issue of blocked rail crossings in Georgia, with Cornelia named as one of the possible beneficiaries.
Now Habersham has reached out to Cornelia’s officials for comment about how the city could benefit from funding.
The Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program, established through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides federal funding to address potential issues of safety and improved rail crossings.
These projects intend to improve safety, reduce traffic delays and enhance accessibility for Georgia residents and drivers.
Sens. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, both of Georgia, served as primary proponents of these items being included in the bill.
“Blockages at rail crossings are not just an inconvenience, but they can be a matter of life and death, Ossoff said. “Every day, the bipartisan infrastructure law is upgrading transportation, energy, sewer and water, and broadband internet across our great state.”
Warnock described the future funding as crucial for the future safety of Georgians and the state’s infrastructure.
“Our communities thrive when we are better connected, which is why I have been working to strengthen rail safety and tackle the dangerous conditions posed by stalled trains in Georgia,” Warnock said. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver historic investments for Georgians in every corner of the state. These latest grants will help alleviate stalled trains and promote greater mobility for all.”
Other cities selected to receive funding include: Atlanta, Powder Springs and Gainesville.