The Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 1998 (TIFIA), via the Department of Transportation (DOT), makes three forms of credit assistance available – secured (direct) loans, loan guarantees and standby lines of credit – for surface transportation projects of national or regional significance. 

The TIFIA credit program’s fundamental goal is to leverage Federal funds by attracting substantial private and other non-Federal investment in critical improvements to the nation’s surface transportation system. 

Some freight rail projects may be eligible for the TIFIA program.  Further information is available from the TIFIA program office in the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).