WASHINGTON – The city of Waterloo will receive $750,000 to lay the groundwork for potential railyard relocation and other rail projects that improve safety, pedestrian access and traffic flow. The award will be administered through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Neighborhood Access and Equity (NAE) Program, which was established in the Grassley-backed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
“Relocating the CN Railyard in Waterloo is a step toward enhancing safety, boosting economic development and alleviating related environmental and health concerns. The IIJA resources announced today will help set this project in motion,” Grassley said. “The bipartisan infrastructure law continues to support vital improvements across Iowa, and I’m glad to see Iowans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to communities in our state.”
Background:
This IIJA award will support necessary planning for the possible relocation of the Canadian National (CN) Railyard from downtown Waterloo to the outskirts of town. The current location of the CN Railyard causes traffic delays and poses public safety concerns, as pedestrians are often forced to cross halted rail cars. The railyard may also be impacting property values and air quality in surrounding areas. These resources position Waterloo for increased economic activity, as well as reduced freight congestion and safety hazards.
