Congressman Pence Hails $4.2 Million Grant for Graham Creek Bridge Replacement Project

COLUMBUS—U.S. Representative Greg Pence hailed the announcement that The Madison Railroad will receive a $4.2 million Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to update the aging Graham Creek Bridge in Madison, Indiana. Rep. Pence urged the Department to support funding of this project earlier this year.

“I visited the Graham Creek Bridge before my election, where I met with the leadership of Madison and North Vernon to study this issue,” Rep. Pence said. “Replacement of this bridge will benefit southeast Indiana by removing a potential safety risk, creating new jobs and economic opportunity for Hoosiers.”

“The City of Madison Port Authority is elated at the news of the $4.2M CRISI grant awarded for the Graham Creek Bridge. We are humbled by the support we have received from Congressman Greg Pence,” said Cathy Hale, CEO of Madison Railroad. “Congressman Pence took the time to come and visit the aging bridge and see the issues first-hand, then presented a speech on the House floor urging his fellow members to support our project. It has truly been a pleasure working with all involved to bring our grant to fruition.”

Short line freight rail makes up nearly thirty percent of freight rail, allowing rural communities like those across Indiana’s 6th District to play an integral role in the Hoosier state economy. “These investments in intercity passenger and freight rail will benefit surrounding communities, make grade crossings safer and improve service reliability,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.

The $4.2 million project will rehabilitate the 140-year-old Graham Creek Bridge, which connects Jefferson and Jennings counties in the 6th District. “As a member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I understand the vital role freight rail plays in getting Hoosier-made and Hoosier-grown products to market,” Pence added. “This is something we’ve been discussing with Mayor Ochs of North Vernon,