Dec 13, 2013 2 min read

The state’s Transportation Commission approved a $26.1 million investment in rail freight and aviation projects Thursday. The grants include $2.6 million for the Washington County Airport to construct a taxi lane and apron, as well as prepare a hangar site and construct a hangar.

Funds in the amount of $1.3 million also have been awarded to the Allegheny Valley Railroad Co. to improve a track between Bruceton and Washington in order to allow heavier freight traffic to move safely, as well as another $2.8 million for the Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway Co.

“Pennsylvania’s numerous transportation options make us a great place to do business and put people to work,” Gov. Tom Corbett said in a news release. “These projects will supplement the state’s new comprehensive transportation plan, which, next year, increases dedicated funding for aviation, rail freight and more.”

Pennsylvania has 67 operating railroads, the highest number in the nation, according to the news release.

Overall, $10 million was allocated for aviation grants and $16.1 million for rail freight grants. Funds will be distributed through the Capital Budget/Transportation Assistance Program and administered by PennDOT’s Bureaus of Aviation and Rail Freight, Ports and Waterways.

The Transportation Commission evaluates the resources needed to maintain and expand the state’s transportation system. The 15-member board is composed of Secretary of Transportation Barry Schoch, 10 private citizens appointed by the governor and the majority and minority chairs of the state Senate and House transportation committees.

For more information, visit www.dot.state.pa.us and click on “2013-2016 Transportation Improvement Program.”