USDOT opens application period for $1.5 billion transportation grants

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The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently opened the application period for the $1.5 billion Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) transportation discretionary grants program.

“BUILD Transportation grants will help communities revitalize their surface transportation systems while also increasing support for rural areas to ensure that every region of our country benefits,” Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao said.

The grants will be awarded on a competitive basis to projects that positively impact a community or region. The projects must improve bridges, intermodal transportation, ports, rail, roads, or transit.

Projects are evaluated on multiple criteria including economic competitiveness, environmental protection, innovation, partnership, safety, state of good repair, quality of life, and additional nonfederal revenue for future transportation infrastructure investments.

No state will receive more than $150 million, and the maximum award per grant is $25 million. At least 30 percent of funds will be awarded to rural areas.

Applications will be accepted through July 19. DOT will host three webinars in May on the grant application process. More webinars will be scheduled for June.

BUILD Transportation grants are replacing the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant program.

The funding for the program was authorized in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018. Funding is through Sept. 30, 2020.