N.C. Gen. Stat. § 136-44.39: Department to provide State and federal financial assistance to short-line railroads.

The Department of Transportation is authorized to provide assistance to short-line railroads to continue and enhance common carrier rail service in the State so as to assist in economic development and access to ports and military installations. Assistance under this section may include funds from the Rail Industrial Access Program, the Short Line Infrastructure Access Program, and any other programs that may exist or be established for these purposes. Grants under this section shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the nonfederal share and must be matched by equal or greater funding from the applicant. (2011-145, s. 28.13; 2016-94, s. 35.21(b).)