By Audrey Grace Hacker

As high-quality, rail-served industrial sites become increasingly scarce across the United States, rail companies and states are taking action to protect and expand the critical rail infrastructure. Kentucky is one such state that is taking action in investing through the Kentucky Industrial Access and Safety Improvement (“KIASI”) program.

Funded with $7.5 million in both Fiscal Year 2025 and Fiscal Year 2026, through the Kentucky General Assembly House Bill 1, KIASI provides 50/50 matching grants for projects involving rail construction, railroad equipment, reconstruction, improvements, and rehabilitation. Through the program, the state can expand access to industrial rail-served sites, improve freight mobility, enhance rail safety, and support long-term economic growth. 

Recently, Pittsburgh Glass Works, an automotive glass manufacturer in Berea, KY, was awarded $1.4 million through KIASI to construct a rail spur line. The company collaborated with CSX to design and engineer the project, boosting rail capacity in Madison County and strengthening the region’s industrial infrastructure. Berea is home to a growing number of manufacturers who continue to invest in the local economy and workforce. Projects like the one at Pittsburgh Glass Works not only support logistics and supply chain efficiency, but they also help communities like Berea thrive and remain competitive for future investment.

MWM specializes in helping companies and communities leverage state and federal funding opportunities, such as KIASI, to support infrastructure and drive economic growth. We enjoyed working alongside Berea and Pittsburgh Glass Works to connect them with this funding and make the project a reality. If you are considering infrastructure funding programs for your project, please don't hesitate to reach out.