DOT Announces $474 Million in TIGER Grants
The U.S. Department of Transportation will give $474 million in grants to 52 transportation projects in 37 states as part of a competitive grant project, it said Sept. 5.
The funding is the fifth round of grants under DOT’s Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery program, which has given a total of $3.6 billion since it started in 2009. With matching private, local and state funds, the 2013 grant round will fund a total of $1.8 billion in projects.
“These transformational TIGER projects are the best argument for investment in our transportation infrastructure,” Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in a statement. “Together, they support President Obama’s call to ensure a stronger transportation system for future generations by repairing existing infrastructure, connecting people to new jobs and opportunities, and contributing to our nation’s economic growth.”
The chosen projects center on multiple transportation modes, including rail and highway.
One project at the Port of Houston that will receive $10 million will extend the Bayport Wharf, with a goal of doubling its cargo capacity by 2033. DOT said the project will help the economy locally and nationally, and will reduce truck waiting and idling times.
In north central Arkansas, $4.9 million of TIGER funds will help the state to resurface Arkansas Highway 92 and replace two weight-restricted bridges, bringing trucks off of congested roads, DOT said.
At the Port of Oswego, N.Y., a $1.5 million grant will go toward building a road with rail tracks, which will improve truck and rail access to the port, the agency said.
DOT said it received more than $9 billion in applications for grants.
