Wisconsin Ag Connection - Freight Railroad Improvement Loans Being Offered to Agribusinesses

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Freight Railroad Improvement Loans Being Offered to Agribusinesses
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 12/28/2006

There aren't a whole lot of government programs that assist agribusinesses develop their operations, but one of the most popular is the Wisconsin Freight Railroad Infrastructure Improvement Program. According to the state's justice department, applications are now being accepted for assistance under this program, which includes both loans under FRIIP and grants under the FRPP.

Loans under FRIIP are available to construct or improve rail facilities such as sidings, or related facilities that accommodate increased rail use such as railroad scales, or rail related loading, unloading or storage facilities. Loans are available to public bodies, railroads and private businesses.

Grants under FRPP are available to assist in preserving essential rail service that is threatened with abandonment. Grants are typically available to acquire rail lines into public ownership or rehabilitate publicly owned facilities. While you would not likely be a direct recipient of this particular grant program, you could benefit from the program if the rail line serving your business is threatened with abandonment or loss of service.

Applications for both programs must be submitted by February 1. For more information, call 608-267-3710.

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