U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced the establishment of the Beautifying Transportation Infrastructure Council (BTIC), a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing the aesthetic appeal of transportation infrastructure across the nation. The council will offer guidance on design and policy opportunities to create visually appealing structures, including highways, bridges, and transit hubs, while maintaining safety and efficiency as priorities.
The U.S. Department of Transportation is seeking nominations for BTIC membership from architects, landscape designers, urban planners, artists, transportation engineers, and historic preservation advocates. "What happened to our country’s proud tradition of building great, big, beautiful things? It’s time the design for America’s latest infrastructure projects reflects our nation’s strength, pride, and promise," said Secretary Duffy. "We’re engaging the best and brightest minds in architectural design and engineering to make beautiful structures that move you and bring about a new Golden Age of Transportation."
The council will focus on identifying best practices, developing aesthetic performance metrics, and providing guidance on projects that enhance public spaces while reflecting local character. Comprising up to 11 members serving two-year terms with possible reappointment, the council is expected to meet twice a year. Nominations are due by November 21, 2025.
This initiative aligns with President Trump’s Executive Order 14344 on federal architecture design policies. The BTIC was established on September 30, 2025, under the Federal Advisory Committee Act provisions and will be managed by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy.
In related news from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration [announced $19.6 million in grant awards](https://www.maritime.dot.gov/newsroom/maritime-administration-awards-nearly-20-million-funding-strengthen-us-shipyard-economic) through its Small Shipyard Grant Program to support modernization efforts in small shipyards across 19 states.
Additionally, [the winners of a $5 million Inclusive Design Challenge](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/anniversary-ada-usdot-announces-winners-its-first-ever-inclusive-design-challenge) were announced in recognition of ADA's anniversary. This competition aims to improve mobility options for people with disabilities.
Furthermore, [new guidance and $7.3 billion in funding](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/biden-administration-announces-new-protect-formula-program-73-billion-bipartisan) were announced as part of President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help communities prepare for extreme weather events.
Finally, [a convening was held by USDOT](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/dot-supply-chain-companies-collaborate-speed-movement-goods-cut-costs-consumers) involving FLOW partners to advance data-sharing initiatives aimed at optimizing freight logistics.
Information from this article can be found here.
