OHIO RAIL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
 OVERVIEW

The Ohio Rail Development Commission was created in 1994 by the Ohio General Assembly under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4981 as an independent commission within the department of transportation. The Commission has 14 members, including four non-voting members from the Ohio General Assembly. Six commissioners are appointed by the governor and one each by the President of the Ohio Senate and the Speaker of the Ohio House. The Ohio Department of Transportation and the Ohio Department of Development both have ex-officio membership.

ORDC's mission is "to plan, promote and implement the improved movement of goods and people faster and safer on a rail transportation network connecting Ohio to the nation and the world." The mission is to be accomplished through "a coordinated freight and passenger rail system which is an integral part of a seamless, intermodal transportation network contributing to Ohio's quality of life and economic development."

Through the use of grants and loans, ORDC:

  • performs a vital economic development function by assisting businesses locating or expanding in Ohio with rail spurs and other rail infrastructure;
  • helps rehabilitate light density branch lines on small short-line and regional railroads;
  • assists in the acquisition and continued operation of branch lines;
  • addresses special rail problems such as mainline congestion and assisting businesses with rail-related issues;
  • assists with the promotion of the rail-related tourism industry; and
  • maintains Ohio’s readiness to move toward intercity passenger rail service at both conventional and high speeds through a variety of planning initiatives.

ORDC uses Federal Highway Administration funds allocated by the Ohio Department of Transportation to fund at-grade crossing safety improvements.

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