(Lodi) Two bridge projects in Columbia County have received state funds. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Governor Tony Evers recently announced nearly $15-million-dollars in grants and loans for five freight rail projects worth an estimated $24.4-million.
The projects are intended to enhance safety by replacing timber bridges, improving crossings, and allowing emergency vehicle access. The Wisconsin and Southern Railroad was awarded roughly $620-thousand-dollars in grants to rehabilitate two bridges located near Lodi. The money comprises 80-percent of the $773-thousand-dollar total project cost.
Evers says these freight rail projects are an investment in a critical part of Wisconsin’s supply chain. He says modern and efficient freight rail makes communities safer and the whole transportation infrastructure stronger.
Last year, Evers signed the 2021-23 biennial budget which provided $20-million for the Wisconsin Freight Railroad Preservation program.
