Media Contacts: Naitore Djigbenou
502.782.4829
Naitore.Djigbenou@ky.gov
Allen Blair
606.748.3716
Allen.Blair@ky.gov
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 28, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced a $7.5 million state investment for six Kentucky railway projects to maintain and enhance existing infrastructure. The projects were selected to best preserve and modernize the state’s rail system to retain and attract new business and usher in more economic opportunity for Kentuckians.
The grants will fund the replacement and rehabilitation of over 30 miles of rail; renew an additional 53 miles of track surface; provide critical maintenance to a lift bridge; and replace turnouts and related components such as spikes, ties, cross ties, tie plates and rail anchors.
“Working together, we are strengthening our rail system because when we improve the way we move people and goods, we all win,” said Gov. Beshear. “These projects will keep our railways running smoothly and safely for years to come.”
The awarded projects were funded by the Kentucky Short Line Infrastructure Preservation (KSLIP) program. This is the second time funds have been awarded from the program. The last round, announced in November 2024, provided funds for eight Kentucky railway projects. The projects are reviewed and recommended for funding by the KSLIP selection committee, which prioritizes applications based on criteria like enhancements to existing rail lines, retaining existing or attracting new rail-served industries, and project readiness. Applicants provide a 50% match for the project.
“Investing in multimodal infrastructure such as railroads is an investment not just in transportation but in our people,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “Through this grant program, we’re creating more opportunities for more Kentuckians.”
Paducah and Louisville Railway (PAL) is one of three railroad companies to receive state dollars for this round of funding through the KSLIP program. PAL’s $1.9 million Mayfield-Paducah crosstie rehabilitation project will renew 53 miles of mainline track. The funds will be used for materials only, including 50,000 new ties, 270,000 spikes, 10,000 tie plates, and 20,000 rail anchors. In total, the company received $4 million for three critical projects.
“Thanks to the Kentucky Short Line Infrastructure Preservation (KSLIP) grants, Paducah & Louisville Railway is investing in safer, stronger rail infrastructure to support economic growth and strengthen Kentucky’s connection to national and global markets,” said Tom Greene, President and CEO of Paducah & Louisville Railway. “P&L is honored to receive the KSLIP grants and is grateful to Gov. Beshear and the General Assembly for supporting the KSLIP program.”
Gov. Beshear has awarded over $24 million in state grants to strengthen and support Kentucky’s railway infrastructure and the state’s economy since beginning his second term in 2024.