Much-needed funding to improve railroad crossings in the Birmingham area is on its way, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell announced Monday.

Sewell (D-Birmingham) called the $23.8 million in federal funding a “major step forward” in addressing the issue of blocked railroad crossings in her home district, which includes parts of Birmingham and surrounding areas.

“This funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law represents a critical part of our long-term strategy to alleviate blocked railroad crossings and will go a long way in improving the quality of life for those living in and around Birmingham,” said Sewell.

The congresswoman also said locking down the funding was a product of team work.

“Securing this funding was truly a team effort, and I want to thank the City of Birmingham and our local leaders for their hard work in developing such a strong proposal and Norfolk Southern for their significant financial commitment to this project,” she said.

Sewell said that she will remained focused on addressing the issue.

“I was so proud to advocate for this funding at the federal level and will continue working with our state and local partners to address blocked railroad crossings,” she said.

Out of the $23.8 million in funding, Birmingham received $8 million to improve dangerous blocked railroad crossings and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) was awarded $15.8 million for track and bridge improvements in the Black Belt and Central Alabama.

Funding comes from the Consolidated Rail and Infrastructure Safety and Improvements  grant program through the U.S Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.