US DOT Allocates $4.2 Billion for Mega and INFRA Grants

Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Continues Funding

As the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act approaches its four-year milestone, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) remains committed to funding crucial infrastructure projects. The recent allocation of $4.2 billion in IIJA grants supports a variety of highway, bridge, and port initiatives.

On October 21, the DOT announced 44 projects receiving funding. Among them, 11 projects are from the National Infrastructure Project Assistance (Mega) program and 33 from the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program.

Key Infrastructure Projects Funded

Notably, three projects secured grants from both programs: improvements to Grand Avenue in Phoenix, receiving $146.6 million; the Washington Bridge North replacement on Interstate-195 in Rhode Island, allocated $221 million; and the CREATE rail project in Chicago, awarded $291.2 million.

Selection Process and Demand

Competition was intense, with DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg revealing nearly 200 applications totaling over $27 billion in requested funds. Only 44 projects were chosen, highlighting the demand for infrastructure development. Buttigieg emphasized the impact, stating these projects will enhance highway interchange safety, major bridge construction, passenger rail expansion, and shipping port capacity, among other improvements.

Largest Grant Awarded

The largest grant, totaling $472.3 million, goes to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority for extensive renovations of North Station and the replacement of the 92-year-old Draw 1 Bridge in Boston, supporting Amtrak and MBTA transit services.