The Ohio Rail Development Commission is an independent commission within the Ohio Department of Transportation.  The Commission'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. 

ORDC provides grants, loans, and other assistance to:

• perform a vital economic development function by assisting businesses locating or expanding in Ohio with rail spurs and other rail infrastructure;
• help rehabilitate light density branch lines on small short-line and regional railroads;
• assist in the acquisition and continued operation of branch lines;
• address special rail problems such as mainline congestion and assisting businesses with rail-related issues;
• assist with promotion of the rail-related tourism industry; and
• maintain 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.

The ORDC was created in 1994 under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4981.