FRA is partnering with the safety institute in its efforts to improve safety and safety culture in the short line and regional railroad industry

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) awarded a $2.425 million Project Grant to the Short Line Safety Institute (SLSI) under the Railroad Research and Development program (CFDA 20.313) to support the implementation phase of SLSI's four-pillar safety framework. The award, effective August 1, 2025, through January 31, 2029, funds comprehensive safety improvement initiatives targeting the short line and regional railroad industry. The deliverables include safety culture assessments, education and training programs, communications initiatives, and research activities designed to enhance safety practices and culture across the sector.

SLSI, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit organization with established expertise in railroad safety, will leverage this funding to develop and deliver specialized services including hazardous materials training, emergency response capabilities training, safety assessments, and research projects addressing multiple railroad safety domains. The grant supports SLSI's mission to work collaboratively with federal agencies to strengthen safety preparedness and implement evidence-based safety improvements within the short line and regional railroad industry, with performance activities conducted in Washington, DC.

This grant will support the mission, vision, and strategic goals of the institute in its implementation phase of the safety institute s four pillars of activities: safety culture assessments, education and training, communications, and research.