The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has announced nearly $4.9 billion in funding for major bridge projects through the Bridge Investment Program. An additional $500 million is available for repairing or replacing bridges in rural areas via the Competitive Highway Bridge Program.
This initiative, introduced by President Trump's Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, aims to remove previous requirements related to social justice and climate initiatives, which were implemented during the Biden administration. The funding will target tens of thousands of bridges across the country, including approximately 42,000 bridges in poor condition.
"Under President Trump’s leadership, America is building again," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. He criticized the previous administration for linking infrastructure funding to what he described as "woke DEI and Green New Scam initiatives."
Examples of removed requirements include considerations for climate change and environmental justice during project planning and delivery stages. These previously required applicants to address greenhouse gas emissions reduction, climate resilience measures, and impacts on disadvantaged communities.
Additionally, diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and workforce development requirements have been eliminated. These included equity assessments for transportation-related disparities and efforts to create good-paying jobs with union opportunities.
The FHWA emphasizes that this announcement addresses critical infrastructure needs by improving bridge conditions nationwide. Bridges play a vital role in economic activities by facilitating commerce movement across local communities and national supply chains.
Further details about the updated Bridge Investment Program Notice of Funding Opportunity can be accessed online. Information regarding grants for rural states under the Competitive Highway Bridge Program is also available at Grants.gov.
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