SUBSTITUTE: Authorizing the Department of Transportation to apply for a $6.75 million National Railroad Partnership Program / Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (NRPP/FSP) Grant from the Federal Railroad Administration and authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the resulting grant agreement to accept the grant (District 4, District 6, District 12, District 15, District 17).

This resolution authorizes the City of Madison's Department of Transportation to apply for a $6.75 million Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (FSP) Grant from the Federal Railroad Administration. If awarded, the grant will fund planned safety improvements and identify additional needs at at-grade railroad crossings that support the proposed extension of the Amtrak Hiawatha service to Madison. The city will provide a 20% local match of $1.35 million, which will be funded through existing capital programs. The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to sign the grant agreement if the funds are secured. The improvements are intended to benefit all transportation system users, enhance safety, and support both current freight and future passenger rail operations.

This action seeks federal funding to improve railroad crossing safety in anticipation of expanded passenger rail service, potentially leading to safer travel for all users and supporting future transit options.

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