USDOT announces availability of $500 million in TIGER grant funds for 2017

I 80 Eastshore Fwy E1434978389955Although many feared that the Trump administration would put an end to the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant funds, on the U.S. Department of Transportation has announced that it is now taking applications for $500 million in TIGER grant funds now available for state and local infrastructure projects, American Shipper reports.

Grants will be awarded for infrastructure projects that will have a significant impact on national, regional or metropolitan areas. Requests may not be for less than $5 million, except in rural areas, or for more than $25 million.

According to the news agency, the DOT says the 2017 TIGER grant program will give special consideration to infrastructure projects that “emphasize improved access to reliable, safe, and affordable transportation for communities in rural areas, such as projects that improve infrastructure condition, address public health and safety, promote regional connectivity, or facilitate economic growth or competitiveness.”

Applications for TIGER grant funding must be submitted to the DOT by Oct. 16.

Approximately $5.1 billion has been awarded for capital investments in surface transportation infrastructure through the TIGER grant program.