PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell today joined executives from CSX to mark the start of construction of a combined $32 million state, federal and private investment to expand rail freight capacity and create jobs.

The project will address 16 bridges to permit double-stack freight trains on 25 miles of CSX's route through Southeast Pennsylvania.

"The improvements to this route will allow double-stack trains through this busy corridor and increase rail freight capacity," Governor Rendell said. "In addition to supporting hundreds of jobs, the project will shave five hours off of transit time which will improve efficiency, ease highway congestion, and improve our rail connection to the Midwest.

"A strong freight rail infrastructure will ensure that we maintain and expand this important industry, which is essential to our transportation and economic success."

The commonwealth has committed $10 million to the project. An additional $10 million in federal funding complements CSX's $12 million investment. The state funding is provided through the capital budget Transportation Assistance Program.

Since Governor Rendell took office, the commonwealth's annual investment in rail freight has more than tripled from $12.75 million to $40 million a year.

CONTACT: Erin Waters of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, +1-717-783-8800 or Gary Tuma of the Pennsylvania Governor's Office, +1-717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor

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