Stefano and Metzgar Announce $250,000 Grant to Rehab Railroad Tracks

HARRISBURG – Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) and Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar (R-69) announced that the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) awarded a $250,000 grant to PBS Coals through the CFA’s Multimodal Transportation Fund Program. The funding will be used to rehabilitate railroad tracks for the Cambria Prep Plant located in Stoneycreek Township, Somerset County.

“Trucking coal is no longer a viable option for PBS Coals, and rail transport – which is the more safe and sustainable method – must be used. Especially because PBS Coals provides almost 300 family-sustaining jobs in Somerset County, it is important to continue this project,” Sen. Stefano said.

PBS Coals is planning to rehabilitate railroad tracks beginning at Coleman Junction and ending at the Cambria Plant Loadout at MP. The project includes the removal and replacement of crossties, removal and replacement of double shoulder plates and replacement of 400 feet of welded rail.

“I am pleased to see PBS Coals, Inc. receive the much-needed funding for its Cambria Prep Plant in Stonycreek Township, Somerset County,” Rep. Metzgar said. “As a producer of coal, the company is heavily relied upon for its pivotal role in providing the necessary resources for the metal, energy and industry sectors. However, it cannot continue to do so if there are transportation issues.”

A multiphase approach will replace the worst areas first that are spread out across the entire line. Factors like the rail age and joints, outside turns, or the combination of both will be taken into consideration of the areas that need replaced the most. The 400 foot section being replaced will be a combination of smaller areas across the entire line, not just one particular area.

The project was funded by the CFA, which is an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development that administers many of Pennsylvania’s economic development and community improvement programs. 

CONTACT: Mark Fetzko, mfetzko@pasen.gov

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