America’s Central Port in Granite City, Illinois, will receive a $2.27 million U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant for construction of a new rail line.

The rail project is being designed to improve the link between local manufacturers and the nation’s freight transportation network, according to a press release issued by U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (R-Illinois), who announced the grant last month.

The $3.27 million rail project includes $1.2 million in private investment.

A new rail spur and rail uploading pit will be constructed and driveway improvements will be made to the port’s manufacturing and transportation facility.

“Our community will continue to experience economic growth as the port expands through both private investment and grants like this,” said Bost, who toured the rail project site last week.