On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced it would be making $10 million in grant funding for rural and tribal communities available over the next five years.
The grants, part of the Build America Bureau, will be available through the Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program and offer technical assistance to rural and tribal communities as they apply for other infrastructure improvement grants.
“In order to make the most of our historic infrastructure investments, we must ensure they reach every community, including the rural and tribal communities that are too often left behind by federal investments,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “This program will help provide rural and tribal communities the resources they need to seek—and win—federal grants, so they can realize their visions for better infrastructure.”
The DOT said communities may use the grants to hire staff or advisors that will assist in development phase activities for future grants, including help with feasibility studies, preliminary engineering and design, environmental review, revenue forecasting, financial feasibility analysis and negotiation of agreements. All of the grants will be awarded without the requirement of a local match.
“Three words we like to share: NO LOCAL MATCH,” DOT Assistant Secretary for Tribal Affairs Arlando Teller said. “The Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program will provide tribal nations with critical technical assistance to help deliver transportation priorities for their communities. Yéego apply for this opportunity.”
The Notice of Funding Opportunity will provide $3.4 million over Fiscal Years 2022 and 2023, and will be available for eligible applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. Grants of up to $360,000 will be awarded.
“Many communities are already benefitting from funding and financing programs that the Bureau administers. However, tribal and rural communities represent a smaller share in our pipeline,” Build America Bureau Executive Director Morteza Farajian said. “The Bureau is committed to providing technical assistance, through this pilot program and other tools, and to creating capacity at local levels that can lead to better utilization of innovative funding and financing solutions in delivery of critical projects.”