RELEASE: Rep. Cloud Applauds DOT Grant for Texas Triangle Rail Revitalization Project

WASHINGTON — Congressman Michael Cloud (TX-27) announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) awarded $4.6 million to the Texas Triangle Rail Revitalization Project through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program. This funding will support critical upgrades to the Texas Gonzales Northern Railway (TXGN), enhancing safety, resilience, and economic growth in rural Texas.

The Texas Triangle Rail Revitalization Project will replace seven aging timber bridges along the TXGN railway. These structures, currently vulnerable to wildfires and load limitations, will be updated to support heavier, modern railcars, thereby improving both the efficiency and safety of operations. The TXGN railway connects the communities of Harwood and Gonzales, Texas, and plays a crucial role in supporting local industries, including agriculture, lumber, and energy.

Rep. Cloud submitted a letter earlier this year to the Federal Railroad Administration urging their full support for this project. His letter highlighted the economic significance of the TXGN railway for the region and the need for improved infrastructure to bolster local businesses and enhance regional supply chains.

Rep. Cloud released the following statement:

“I’m grateful that the Department of Transportation recognized the importance of the Texas Triangle Rail Revitalization Project. Upgrading these bridges will directly benefit our community by increasing rail efficiency, reducing maintenance costs, and offering a safer, more resilient transportation network. This grant is an essential investment in the rural economy of Gonzales County, supporting local businesses and creating an economic advantage for workers in the area. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have on our district.”

The TXGN railway, which will match 30% of the grant amount, spans approximately twelve miles and facilitates vital connections for the region’s economic sectors. This investment is another step forward in Rep. Cloud’s commitment to strengthening the 27th District’s transportation infrastructure and promoting economic growth for local industries.

Rep. Cloud’s May 2024 letter to the Federal Railroad Administration: