Multimodal Project Discretionary Grants
The USDOT has opened a streamlined application process to access more than $5.5B in funding to help carry out major infrastructure projects across the country.
This funding supports three major discretionary grant programs that involve surface transportation projects designed to strengthen supply chains, spur economic development, and improve safety and daily life, using a single application and common criteria to make it easier for communities to apply to any or all of the three funding opportunities. Together, these grants are being solicited together under the Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant (MPDG) program.
The MPDG program funds:
- $1.8B for the National Infrastructure Project Assistance (Mega) Program
- $3.1B for the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Program
- $675M for the Rural Surface Transportation Grant (Rural) Program
Eligible projects include:
- Highways & bridges
- Intercity passenger rail
- Railway-highway grade crossing or separation
- Public transportation
- Wildlife crossing
The deadline for applications is 11:59 pm ET on August 21, 2023. Applicants will find a NOFO, FAQ, and other helpful resources here.
Last year, USDOT awarded nearly $1.2B to fund nine Mega projects that will create good-paying jobs, grow the economy, strengthen supply chains, improve mobility for residents, and make our transportation systems safer for all users. The Department also awarded $274M for 12 Rural projects and $1.5B for 26 INFRA projects.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
The BIL was signed into law in 2021 and it authorizes $1.2 trillion for transportation and infrastructure spending with $550 billion of that figure going toward “new” investments and programs.
Funding from the BIL is expansive in its reach, addressing energy and power infrastructure, access to broadband internet, water infrastructure, and more.
Some of the new programs funded by the bill could provide the resources needed to address a variety of infrastructure needs at the local level.
