Bernstine, Mustello Highlight Rail Investments Supporting Jobs, Economic Growth in Butler County

January 23, 2026

HARRISBURG – Reps. Aaron Bernstine (R-Butler/Lawrence) and Marci Mustello (R-Butler) today announced more than $7 million in rail freight investments that will improve transportation infrastructure, strengthen supply chains and support hundreds of family-sustaining jobs in Butler County and across western Pennsylvania.

“These projects represent a significant commitment to maintaining and modernizing Pennsylvania’s freight rail system,” Bernstine said. “As Republican chairman of the House Rail Subcommittee, I see firsthand how strategic rail investments improve safety, strengthen our transportation network and support the industries that drive our regional economy.”

“Reliable rail infrastructure is essential for local manufacturers and employers who depend on efficient freight movement,” Mustello said. “These investments will help sustain jobs, improve safety and ensure Butler County remains a strong place to do business.”

• Buffalo and Pittsburgh Railroad: 
$4 million to make extensive upgrades across 218 miles of its Main Line and P&W Subdivisions. The project includes the replacement of 40 grade crossings, installation of 80,000 feet of rail, replacement of 30,000 ties, and surfacing 48 miles of track to improve safety and reliability.
• Pittsburgh and Shawmut Railroad: 
$3.1 million to rehabilitate approximately 20 miles of track on the Laurel Subdivision, along with upgrades to an additional six miles of track. The project also includes the installation of two switch machines and improvements to a grade crossing in the Butler Yard, a key hub for regional freight movement.

Funding is awarded through Pennsylvania’s Rail Transportation Assistance Program (RTAP) and Rail Freight Assistance Program (RFAP).

Pennsylvania has 65 operating railroads and more than 5,600 miles of freight track, the most of any state in the nation. The RTAP and RFAP programs are administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Rail, Freight, Ports and Waterways and are designed to support public-private partnerships that maintain and enhance the Commonwealth’s rail system.