The federal dollars that are making their way to infrastructure projects around the country are largely supporting highway and bridge projects as transit agencies struggling to finance day-to-day operations delay capital investments.
Federal investments made during the pandemic are starting to reach states, but much of the funding is going to road building, writes Dan Zukowski in Smart Cities Dive.
While contracts for road and bridge projects grew, contracts for rail and transit projects “slowed significantly,” with only 180 rail and transit contracts totaling $3.5 billion developed in 2022. By contrast, “The 38,220 contracts for roadway-related construction totaled $102.2 billion,” Zukowski explains. “In a separate ARTBA analysis of how infrastructure law highway and bridge funds had been used through Sep. 30, 2022, 46% went to roadway repair or reconstruction work while just 1% went to bike and pedestrian facilities.”
American Road & Transportation Builders Association Chief Economist Alison Premo Black points to the pandemic as one cause, saying “It’s not surprising that the capital investment has been scaled back while agencies have been so concerned about operations.” Transportation infrastructure spending is continuing to ramp up, with over 150 bills aimed at transportation projects introduced in state legislatures this year.
FULL STORY: Federal infrastructure funds begin to flow, mostly to roadwork
Colorado Launches New Efficiency and Weatherization Rebate Program
The state is using federal funds to assist homeowners in replacing inefficient appliances and making their homes more climate-friendly and resilient.
Over Half of IIJA Funds Still Up for Grabs
Just 40 percent of funds from the massive infrastructure law have been allocated to projects three years after its passage.
California Governor's Proposal Would Streamline Infrastructure Projects
Governor Newsom hopes his proposed changes to state laws would help speed up infrastructure projects before federal funding is put in jeopardy.
2024: The Year in Zoning
Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.
NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide
The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.
Research Affirms Safety of ‘Idaho Stop’
Allowing cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs does not negatively impact safety and can help people on bikes more effectively navigate roadways.
America’s Housing Crisis: Lessons Ignored and Challenges Ahead
A recent study reveals how decades of policy missteps, demographic shifts, and economic forces fueled America’s housing crisis, leaving millions — especially millennials — struggling amid rising demand, racial disparities, and climate-driven emergencies.
Altadena’s Resilience: Restoring a Fire-Ravaged Community
The Eaton Fire has devastated Altadena, destroying homes, cultural landmarks, and community institutions, while residents rally to rebuild and preserve the town's rich history, diversity, and neighborly character.
Chicago Transit Leaders Call for $1.5B Funding Package
Public transit across the Chicagoland region could suffer massive cuts without additional funding.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Placer County
Skagit Transit
Berkeley County
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
City of Cambridge, Maryland