City of Riverside Receives $15 Million for Third Street Grade Separation Project
Published: 6/5/2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 5, 2023
Contact:
Phil Pitchford
Public Information Officer
951-826-5975
City of Riverside Receives $15 Million for Third Street Grade Separation Project
Federal funds will help pay for project that will separate train traffic from vehicle traffic
RIVERSIDE, Calif. – The City of Riverside will receive $15 million in federal funds to help pay for a grade separation project where Third Street crosses the BNSF railroad tracks, a project that will eliminate traffic delays and increase safety for trains, vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists.
The City was notified today (6/5) that $15 million in Rail Crossing Elimination funds have been set aside to help pay for the $74 million project in the northwest corner of downtown, just east of Highway 91. The funds, one of seven allocations for either projects or studies in California, is the second-largest amount in the state.
“This grade separation project will create a safer and more convenient path of travel for everyone,” Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. “Congratulations and thanks are in order for the City team that secured these funds in partnership with our federal representatives.”
The project involves building a four-lane underpass, realigning three mainline BNSF railroad tracks to improve train speeds, and realigning Commerce Street to support traffic circulation. The BNSF mainline carries 66 freight trains and a total of 20 Amtrak and commuter trains, all of which will benefit from more efficient service, fewer delays and improved safety.
The City has advocated for funding for the project in concert with its federal advocacy team, Thorn Run Partners. The effort benefitted from letters of support from Rep. Mark Takano, Sen. Alex Padilla and Sen Diane Feinstein. Rep. Takano helped secure $3 million for the project through the Community Project Funding program.
BNSF, the California Public Utilities Commission, and the California Transportation Commission also will contribute funds to the project. The Riverside County Transportation Commission recently allocated $12 million through the Western Riverside Regional Arterial Grant Program.
The project still needs another $10 million before construction can get started. The City’s Public Works Department is pursuing grants for the remaining cost.
“This crucial funding moves us forward on this important infrastructure project that links the Eastside and our broader communities to the Downtown.” Mayor Pro Tem Clarissa Cervantes said. “I look forward to us finding the remaining funds we need and creating stronger local workforce opportunities with projects like this.”
