By Ron Thaniel
May 25, 2009

U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Ray LaHood announced on May 15 the availability of $1.5 billion in TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) Discretionary Grants for capital investment in surface transportation projects. The grants will be awarded on a competitive basis to state and local governments for projects that have a significant impact on the nation, a region or metropolitan area and can create jobs and benefit economically distressed areas (e.g., create and preserve jobs, improve energy efficiency, reduce dependence on oil, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve the condition of existing transportation facilities and systems). According to LaHood, “These projects will promote greater mobility, a cleaner environment and more livable communities.”DOT will give more weight to the Long-Term Outcomes and Jobs Creation & Economic Stimulus. Project that is not ready to proceed quickly is less likely to be successful.

Project that is not ready to proceed quickly is less likely to be successful.

The grants can range from $20 million up to $300 million to support high impact transportation projects. However, DOT has discretion under ARRA to waive the $20 million minimum grant size requirement for significant projects in smaller cities, regions or states. Projects that are eligible include, but are not limited to, capital investments in: (1) highway or bridge projects; (2) public transportation projects; (3) passenger and freight rail transportation projects; and (4) port infrastructure investments, including projects that connect ports to other modes of transportation and improve the efficiency of freight movement.

ARRA prohibits the award of more than 20 percent of the funds made available under this program to projects in any one state. ARRA also requires that the DOT take measures to ensure an equitable geographic distribution of funds and an appropriate balance in addressing the needs of urban and rural communities.

Grant applications must be received by September 15. DOT will issue grant awards by February 17, 2010. These funds are available for obligation to Eligible Applicants until September 30, 2011.

For further information, contact the TIGER Discretionary Grants program manager via e-mail at TIGERGrants@dot.gov.