The commission is accepting applications to fund projects that will eliminate or mitigate public safety hazards at railroad crossings and along railroad rights-of-way in Washington.
The commission administers the Grade Crossing Protective Fund (GCPF) to provide grants to railroad companies, local governments, and other entities that propose to make safety improvements at a railroad crossing or along a railroad right-of-way. Funding is also available for safety improvements at passive (no lights and gates) public railroad crossings and for implementing other safety projects.
The commission will consider and select projects for funding based on:
- The relative severity of the hazard being addressed.
- The safety benefits resulting from a project.
- The costs of implementing a project.
- Geographic diversity.
- Public equity.
- Available funds.
Railroad companies regulated by the commission must be in compliance with all state laws and rules in order to be considered for grant funding.
Funding Availability
GRANT FUNDS ARE NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE 2023-2025 BIENNIUM.
The commission may limit the amount of funding per project so that an optimal number of projects may be funded with regard to relative safety benefits and project costs. The commission generally approves proposals for no more than $25,000 for projects that do not have a cost-share or matching requirement.
In exceptional circumstances, the commission may approve an amount in excess of $25,000 to address an immediate or significant safety problem. If you request more than $25,000, you must provide sufficient justification. For example, if the amount requested represents a partial payment for a much larger project or if you are providing matching or shared costs, you must describe the larger project, including cost projections that describe which parties are expected to pay which portion of projected costs.
The commission will not pay administrative costs or labor costs if administration and labor is provided by the applicant with current staff but may pay for contracted administration or labor.
The commission makes payment only on a reimbursement basis. The commission cannot approve advance payments for any project costs.
Applications for the 2023-2025 Grant Cycle Now Available.
To apply for funding, please select one of the following categories:
- Safety Improvements at Passive Crossings
- Open Call for Projects
- Improvements to Warning Devices at Public Grade Crossings
Applications may be submitted electronically to rail@utc.wa.gov. Please specify "Grade Crossing Protective Fund" in the subject line of the email.
Reimbursement Forms
Once your project is complete, please fill out the A-19 Invoice Voucher and Expenditure Summary and submit it with all related invoices and receipts. The Affidavit of Project Completion is required only for projects involving improvements to passive crossings. (See sample completed form.) Submit completed reimbursement documents by email to rail@utc.wa.gov.
2023-2025 Affidavit of Project Completion Resources
Questions?
For more information:
Email: Rail@utc.wa.gov