Senators, Coons, Blunt Rochester & Rep. McBride Celebrate Two Major Federal Investments in Harrington

U.S. Senators Chris Coons and Lisa Blunt Rochester along with U.S. Representative Sarah McBride joined state and local leaders to hold a groundbreaking ceremony and celebrate the $3.4 million federal grant they secured through the Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) process for critical infrastructure improvements to Harrington’s Industrial Park, including roadwork and extending sewer and water infrastructure. The goals of the project is to help bring up to 750 new jobs and spur economic growth in Harrington. Along with local leaders, the delegation later visited Delmarva Central Railroad (DCR) to highlight the $18.8 million federal grant they secured from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Grant program. CRISI is administered by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). The project includes infrastructure upgrades across more than 120 miles of DCR’s main line from Porter, Delaware to Lecato, Virginia. 

Additional Information:

Regarding the Delmarva Central Railroad project -it is designed to eliminate approximately eight miles of speed restrictions (“slow orders”) and improve remaining segments to enhanced FRA Class II track standards. The work includes comprehensive track rehabilitation, crossing enhancements, and major bridge upgrades.

“Harrington is the perfect location for the sort of generational investments we’re celebrating today,” said Senator Coons. “These timely federal grants will help lay the tracks for well-paying jobs and provide a pathway to sustainable growth by improving the industrial park and upgrading the railroad to ensure safety, efficiency, and connectivity. Delaware’s congressional leaders don’t just talk about creating opportunities – we make it happen – and this is just another critical win that we’re proud to bring home to Delaware.”

“Today was an exciting day for the future of Harrington, the hub of Delaware,” said Senator Blunt Rochester, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. “Alongside my partners in the federal delegation and local leaders, I was proud to celebrate these two major federal grants. From the industrial park to the railroad, these investments will have an impact on Harrington for generations. I look forward to continuing to do all I can to fight for this community, county, and state in the Senate.”

“These two investments are more than just infrastructure upgrades — they’re about building a stronger economic future for Harrington and for Delaware,” said Representative McBride. “Improving and expanding the industrial park means new jobs and opportunity right here in Kent County, while modernizing our rail lines strengthens the backbone of our regional economy. I’m grateful for Senators Coons and Blunt Rochester for advocating for this investment and the local leaders who built this vision and are bringing it to life.”