Top of mind: A big NOFO
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has published a notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) for $1.5 billion in grant funding through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) discretionary grant program.
By the numbers: The figure represents a 50% increase in available funds compared to 2021 with at least $15 million in funding guaranteed to go towards projects located in “areas of persistent poverty” or “historically disadvantaged communities.”
RAISE projects are selected based on merit, and as a result of the infrastructure law, 2022 applications will also be evaluated on mobility and community connectivity.
In the review process, USDOT will consider
- universal design and accessibility for travelers
- how proposals increase mobility for freight and supply chain efficiency
Consistent with last year’s process, the department is encouraging applicants to consider how their projects can address climate change, ensure racial equity, and remove barriers to opportunity. Applicants are also encouraged to consider how their projects can create workforce development opportunities in their communities.
You can view the NOFO here. The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. EST on April 14, 2022, and selections will be announced no later than August 12, 2022.