FRA Corridor ID Program

The Corridor ID program is Ohio’s pathway to transforming passenger rail connectivity across the state. As one of three major initiatives defined in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021, the Corridor ID program provides comprehensive guidelines and support for the development of state-sponsored rail corridors. These corridors are integral to expanding Amtrak’s national network and creating state-of-the-art travel options for Ohioans.

 

State sponsored corridors are defined as an intercity passenger rail route with a length of up to 750 miles.

 

Examples of successful state-sponsored corridors include the Wolverine (MI), Piedmont (NC), and Missouri River Runner (MO). These services highlight the significant role that state funding and Amtrak’s operations play in delivering reliable and efficient passenger rail options.

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The first round of Corridor ID funding was announced late in 2023, with 4 Ohio routes being selected to begin the process:

1. 3C&D (Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Cleveland)

2. Cleveland - Toledo - Detroit

3. Midwest Connect (Chicago - Ft. Wayne - Lima - Columbus - Pittsburgh)

4. Cardinal Service enhancements (including an increase to daily service)

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To be selected, Ohio’s routes were judged based on projected ridership, economic impact, support from state & local partners, and overall feasibility, as was defined the Solicitation of Corridor Proposals from the FRA. In total, 69 routes were selected across the country to begin the process. Although all of these routes have the support of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), there is a limited quantity of funding available, so speed is of the utmost importance.

 

The Corridor ID Program includes 3 steps on the path to developing our rail routes:

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Step 1: Corridor Development Initiation

Step 1 focuses on laying the groundwork for the Corridor by developing a scope, schedule, and cost estimate for preparing a Service Development Plan (SDP). During this phase, the grantee builds capacity, secures resources, and collaborates with the FRA to outline the necessary steps for developing the SDP. FRA provides an initial award of $500,000 for Step 1 activities, which requires no cost share from the grantee. Any unused funds from Step 1 may be carried forward to Step 2.

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Step 2: Service Development Plan (SDP)

Step 2 involves the detailed planning necessary to implement the Corridor, including defining the service, analyzing alternatives, identifying required capital projects, and establishing a governance structure. The SDP also includes financial planning, compliance with safety regulations, and public engagement. FRA funds this phase based on the cost estimate developed in Step 1, with a minimum 10% cost share required from the grantee. The completed SDP serves as the foundation for advancing to Project Development.

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Step 3: Project Development

Step 3 prepares specific projects from the SDP for implementation by completing preliminary engineering (PE), environmental reviews (NEPA), and other necessary documentation. Only those phases that demonstrate readiness and independent operational benefits will advance. FRA funds Step 3 activities based on SDP cost estimates, with a minimum 20% cost share required from the sponsoring state or organization. Funding may be provided through multiple awards, ensuring projects move forward based on available resources and program priorities.

 

These steps fit into the wider FRA Project Lifecycle.

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Upon completion of the Corridor ID process, Ohio’s rail projects will move to final design and construction, with Amtrak potentially playing a key role as the operator. These developments will be supported by federal and state funding. For the 3C&D corridor, final construction is anticipated to begin in 2028.