This is a voluntary reporting collection open to all Railroads and local and statement governments, and is used for administering the FRA Grants Management Program. Frequency of reporting varies depending upon the stage of the grant process (award, maintenance or close out). All reporting is directed to FRA when submitted. This is a revision to a currently approved collection.
This collection represents an increase of burden hours based on the revised number of expected new grant applications to be received, the current number of existing grants being managed and/or expected to be closed out. The main reason for increase in burden hours is the incorporation of FRA Form 217 and the environmental documentation process being transferred from OMB Control No. 2130-0548 to this collection.
The purpose of the program: FRA solicits grant applications for viable projects including, but not limited to, preconstruction planning activities, safety improvements, congestion relief, improvement of grade crossings, rail line relocation, as well as projects that encourage development, expansion, and upgrades to passenger and freight rail infrastructure and services. Funded projects are those that meet FRA and government wide evaluation standards and align with the Presidentâs key strategic transportation goals to create safe and efficient transportation choices, build a foundation for economic competitiveness, promote energy efficiency and environmental quality, and support interconnected livable communities. FRA administers award agreements for both construction and non-construction projects that will result in service benefits or other tangible improvements in rail corridors. These projects include completion of preliminary engineering, environmental research and development, final design, and construction.
Certifications Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters, Drug-Free Workplace Requirements and Lobbying, Assurances for Non-Construction Programs
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.
Request for Advance or Reimbursement