CT HB05406

Increases state bond authorization for commercial rail freight line improvements from $7.5 million to $30 million.

Authorizes the Department of Transportation to distribute competitive grants for improvements, repairs, and modernization of rail infrastructure to commercial freight lines operating in Connecticut.

Provides grants covering 100 percent of costs for state-owned rights of way improvements and 70 percent for privately-owned rail lines, with commissioner discretion to waive matching requirements if projects demonstrably increase rail freight traffic.

Establishes grant preferences for projects that improve at-grade rail crossings for safety, provide connections to major freight generators, align with the Connecticut State Rail Plan, or increase freight rail traffic capacity.

Bonds authorized under this act mature within 20 years and are backed by the full faith and credit of the state; effective July 1, 2014.