Vital transportation projects in underserved communities will get a $3.4 million boost from The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) new Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program (RTA). The program was launched to support the development of transport solutions in rural and tribal areas.

The project is being managed by a key organization within DOT. According to a news release, the effort is being spearheaded by the Build America Bureau, an RTA grant entity that backs initial projects related to transportation solutions in rural and Tribal communities with grants funding technical, legal, and financial assistance. Roughly 406 applications requesting more than $127 million in funding were submitted to the organization.

There has been significant demand for this program, indicating its importance. "The sheer number of applications received, and amount of funding requested demonstrates the tremendous need for funding communities that have historically been left out of federal investment opportunities," said Deputy U.S. Transportation Secretary Polly Trottenberg. "This is great progress in our mission to help our rural and Tribal partners realize their visions for safer and more efficient transportation options."

The roots of this program can be traced back to recent legislative actions. In November of 2021, the RTA program was established through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that earmarked $10 million over five years to provide technical assistance for projects in rural and Tribal communities, according to the media release.

The implementation process is expected to bring innovative changes to these communities. "The Bureau is excited to work with these new partners to jump-start local projects and better position them to compete for DOT grants and explore innovative funding, financing, and delivery solutions," said Bureau Executive Director Morteza Farajian. "The response to this funding opportunity was astounding and has highlighted how impactful the Program will be for our rural and Tribal communities. This is just the beginning."

The program also offers a considerable amount of flexibility in how funds are used. Recipients of the funds are not required to match and can utilize the grants to employ personnel to begin the legwork in the design stage of proposed projects including architects and engineers, according to the news release.

This initiative is viewed as an important step forward for underprivileged communities in America. "As most of Indian country is rural, we are happy to use these opportunities to work with them and ensure these historic opportunities under the BIL are accessible for all Americans," said Assistant Secretary for Tribal Affairs Arlando Teller.