USDOT announces grants for rural and tribal transportation projects

The U.S. Department of Transportation‘s (USDOT) Build America Bureau has announced a new pilot programme called the Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program. Created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the programme aims to provide technical assistance grants to rural and tribal communities. Over a span of five years, $10 million will be made available to advance infrastructure projects in these communities.

“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,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “This programme will help provide rural and tribal communities the resources they need to seek – and win – federal grants, so they can realise their visions for better infrastructure.”

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.”

FHWA awards $52 million in technology grants to improve travel safety

Eligible applicants will have access to $3.4 million in funding for fiscal years 2022 and 2023 on a first-come, first-served basis. Individual awards can range up to the statutory limit of $360,000.

The Build America Bureau is committed to providing technical assistance to tribal and rural communities, with the goal of better utilising funding and financing solutions for essential projects. Interested applicants can access a four-page funding application on the Bureau’s website and submit it starting from 14 August 2023. In addition, a free informational webinar will be hosted on15 June 2023 to provide further details about the programme.

Eligible applicants include local governments, state governments applying on behalf of projects outside urbanised areas, federally recognised Indian Tribes and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. The programme also demonstrates the administration’s commitment to advancing equity and opportunity for American Indians and Alaska Natives, with up to $800,000 set aside each fiscal year specifically for tribal applicants.