UIUC has been awarded up to US$5m to establish the National University Rail Center of Excellence (NURail CoE), a pioneering initiative dedicated to developing the future workforce while advancing research and expansion that enhances the safety, efficiency, and reliability of both passenger and freight rail transportation.
Led by UIUC, the NURail CoE comprises a consortium of nine partner institutions, including the University of Illinois Chicago, University of Delaware, Kansas State University, Michigan Technological University, Morgan State University, Rutgers University, University of Texas at Austin, and Tuskegee University.
This collaborative effort represents another step forward in President Biden’s plan to deliver the 21st century rail network Americans need and deserve, allocating much-needed investment in the pursuit of cutting-edge rail solutions and workforce development.
The NURail CoE will appropriate its resources toward research areas encompassing a wide range of critical topics. Potential research topics may include the development of groundbreaking technologies to advance rolling stock, rail infrastructure enhancements, shared corridor solutions, inspection technology advancements, remote sensing applications, rail systems maintenance approaches, network resiliency solutions, operational reliability enhancements, energy efficiency measures, and other pioneering subjects aimed at improving rail transportation.
FRA administrator Amit Bose said, “The establishment of the NURail CoE is a testament to the dedication and expertise of these institutions. This initiative exemplifies our ongoing commitment to building a safer, more efficient, and sustainable rail network for the benefit of all Americans.”
Under the NURail CoE program, FRA will provide up to 50% of the cost of establishing and operating the center of excellence and supporting research activities. Each of the nine universities within the NURail CoE consortium will contribute a portion of the total non-Federal match, demonstrating their commitment to the advancement of rail research and development.
The NURail CoE is set to operate for a three-year duration, allowing ample time for the pursuit of transformative rail solutions and innovations that will contribute to a safer and more modern rail network across the country.