Gov. Kelly celebrates opening of newly-improved southwestern Kansas railroad

HUGOTON, Kan. (WIBW) – Governor Laura Kelly helped rejoice the opening of a newly-improved part of railroad in southwestern Kansas.

On Wednesday, April 12, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly says she attended the groundbreaking ceremony for enhancements to the Cimarron Valley Railroad in southwest Kansas spanning from Dodge Metropolis to Hugoton. The trouble was awarded practically $15 million from each non-public and public sources – together with the federal Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Security Enhancements fund and the Kansas Division of Transportation – to finish the improve.

“These upgrades usually are not simply an funding in our infrastructure, however an funding in our agriculture business – and our economic system as an entire,” Gov. Kelly stated. “By rehabilitating over 85 miles of a vital rail line in southwest Kansas, this challenge will make it simpler and extra environment friendly for native companies to move biodiesel and different agricultural merchandise.”

Kelly famous that she immediately advocated for the challenge’s grant software to the Federal Railroad Administration.

“The Cimarron Valley Railroad has been dedicated to transporting Kansas-grown items throughout the nation and the world in a protected, environmentally pleasant, and cost-efficient method for over twenty years. These funds will assist us proceed to try this,” stated Nathan Champion, President of the Cimarron Valley Railroad. “We’re grateful for the partnerships – each private and non-private – which have helped make these upgrades occur to make sure uninterrupted transportation of important items all through native, nationwide, and worldwide markets.”

The Governor indicated that state legislators additionally attended the occasion.

“Upgrading the Cimarron Valley Railroad is important to holding our communities related and their economies thriving,” stated Consultant David Youthful. “Investing in our rural areas will enhance rail operations, our financial competitiveness, and security within the area and statewide. This can be a nice day for Southwest Kansas and our state as an entire.”

Kelly stated the upgrades are useful to the agriculture neighborhood. She stated the funds will remodel the road into an environment friendly agricultural thoroughfare that can join Kansas to extra markets. Freight is essential to Kansas agricultural communities and these upgrades guarantee it stays one of many most secure, best modes of transportation at their disposal.

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