Government Contracting Pipeline
2025 Archive
Florida DOT secures $15B state allocation for upcoming transportation, safety projects
As part of the state of Florida’s fiscal 2025–26 approved budget, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has been allocated $15.1 billion to support operations and essential projects. The majority of the funding – approximately $13.7 billion – will go toward...
Transportation projects can access higher federal loans under DOT policy change
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has expanded low-interest financing opportunities for large transportation infrastructure projects. DOT officials announced an update to the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) on July 7 that...
DOI unveils $725M in grants to address abandoned mine land cleanup
The Department of the Interior announced nearly $725 million in fiscal year 2025 funding to clean up abandoned coal mines. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), in 2021, appropriated nearly $11.3 billion for the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund, which is...
Oregon invests $155M in bond funds for performing arts center renovation
Portland State University (PSU) is bringing Broadway to downtown with a $155 million, 1,200-seat performing arts center that seeks to transform the city's cultural landscape. The university announced earlier this month it had secured $155 million in funding for the...
Louisville initiates AI overhaul, seeks AI proposals to improve government services
AI advancement and innovation is taking an increasingly leading role in municipal operations across the country. The city of Louisville, Kentucky, is the latest to take the next step in artificial intelligence (AI) integration by expanding its AI leadership team and...
California launches design phase of $2.1B coastal tunnel project
The California Transportation Commission has jumpstarted the Last Chance Grade Project into the design phase with a $40 million injection. With the design phase set to begin, construction on the $2.1 billion tunnel project is set to begin in 2030. The California...
Coos Bay port secures $100M investment for new container terminal, rail improvements
Oregon approved a $100 million investment in the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) project. The public-private project will establish a container terminal in the Port of Coos Bay that will directly link ocean freight to inland markets by rail. The estimated total...
Profiles in Power: Marcie Kahbody – CIO, California Department of Transportation
My public career highlights and education: Throughout my career in public service, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in some of California’s largest and most complex departments. Currently, I serve as the Deputy Secretary of Technology and Agency Information Officer...
MassDOT unveils $1B investment for Cape Cod Canal bridge replacements
As a cornerstone of its five-year capital plan, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) will allocate $1.09 billion to reconstruct the Cape Cod bridges in Bourne. The investment will help supplement the project’s total cost of $4.5 billion, with...
New York announces $1B in bond funds for affordable housing projects
New York State is planning to use more than $1 billion in housing bonds and subsidies to build approximately 3,000 affordable homes throughout the state. The 15 projects receiving funding are part of a five-year, $25 billion comprehensive housing plan that will build...
Kansas DOT’s $1.2B corridor improvement project advances to design phase
The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has entered the design phase for the $1.2 billion K-10 Corridor Capacity Improvements Project. While the project has been approved, project officials have yet to set a construction date. The K-10 Corridor covers a...
Arizona bill allocates $500M for renovations at Chase Field
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs signed a bill on June 27 approving $500 million in public funding to renovate Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. The legislation allocates $750 million in combined public and private funding for the renovations, with $250 million...
Columbus plans $400M upgrade to Blue Jackets’ Nationwide Arena
The Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority in Ohio is moving forward with an ambitious $400 million renovation plan to renovate and modernize its multi-use sports arena. Development for the Nationwide Arena will likely be implemented over a four-to-five-year...
America’s Central Port to invest $356 million in critical infrastructure and resilience
America’s Central Port District (ACPD) in Illinois has released its latest plan outlining critical capital projects and facilitating a $355.6 million investment in infrastructure development, improvements and renovations. The district recently announced an open house...
GSA advances $335M federal courthouse plan for downtown Hartford
The U.S. General Services Administration, the federal agency which manages government buildings and infrastructure, is spearheading a $335 million project to build a new federal courthouse in downtown Hartford, Connecticut. The courthouse will be located at 154 Allyn...
Profiles in Power: Greg Hostetter – Executive Deputy Secretary, PA Department of Agriculture
Profiles in Power highlights public officials nationwide who are improving their communities through their dedication, enthusiasm, creativity and experience. This week’s profile is the executive deputy secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Greg...
Army Corps of Engineers accepting proposals for $400M Trinity River bypass project
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is accepting proposals from contractors as part of its $1.17 billion Central City federal flood control project in Fort Worth, Texas. The project, originally slated to begin in 2025, has been pushed back to spring 2026 due to...
Navy issues RFI in preparation for $250M submarine pier expansion in Washington
The U.S. Navy is seeking a partner to complete a project extending a concrete pier at a Washington naval base responsible for berthing and deploying submarines. The Navy recently released a Request for Information (RFI) to gauge interest and availability for the...
Massachusetts DOT approves $18.5B capital plan for transit, roads and bridges
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has signed off on an $18.5 billion five-year Capital Investment Plan (CIP). The approved plan covers key transportation investments from fiscal year 2026 through 2030, including railroad and transit projects,...
UNC Asheville announces $200M South Campus development plan with new soccer stadium, housing
The University of North Carolina at Asheville (UNC Asheville) has revealed plans to transform a 45-acre plot of land – called South Campus - with new developments. Part of the university's Millennial Campus, the two-phase, more than $200 million project will feature a...
Indiana signs new tolling law, authorizing tolls on all interstate highways for construction, maintenance
Indiana has become the first state to authorize tolling on all its interstate highways after the governor signed legislation giving transportation officials the authority to seek federal waivers for tolls without further legislative approval. The new law, signed by...
Fargo seeks P3 for $41M convention center development
The city of Fargo, North Dakota, is looking for a public-private partnership (P3) to build an up-to-$41 million convention center and nearby private development. Applicants have until Aug. 7, 2025, to place a submission. A majority of the convention center will be...
Indiana governor overhauls economic development board with nine new appointments
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun has made nine appointments to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) Board of Directors. These appointments are part of a complete overhaul of the board, replacing every member. The IEDC oversees initiatives to grow the state’s...
Profiles in Power: Andrea DeLaBruere-Deputy Secretary for Vermont’s Agency of Digital Services
Profiles in Power highlights public officials nationwide who are improving their communities through their dedication, enthusiasm, creativity and experience. This week’s profile is the deputy secretary for Vermont's Agency of Digital Services, Andrea DeLaBruere. My...
Philadelphia approves $337M for capital improvements in FY26
Of Philadelphia’s approved $6.8 billion in approved expenditures for fiscal year (FY) 2026, the city will allocate $337.3 million to fund capital improvement projects. The city council also approved the updated FY26-31 Capital Program, allocating $1.5 billion over the...
Colorado unveils new Statewide Active Transportation Plan to improve roadway safety
Colorado is advancing new initiatives to make multimodal travel safer and more accessible across the state. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has unveiled a new Statewide Active Transportation Plan (ATP)—an updated version of the state's multimodal plan...
New York opens $325M funding round for water, wastewater infrastructure
New York is making $325 million available for projects to enhance community drinking water and create safer and more efficient sewer systems. The funding is available through the state’s Water Infrastructure Improvement and Intermunicipal Water Infrastructure Grants...
Minnesota lawmakers pass $700M package for transportation, water and capital projects
Minnesota lawmakers are investing more than $700 million in capital projects, following state officials’ approval of two packages this month. The new legislation, now waiting for Gov. Tim Walz’ signature, will provide a major boost to water and transportation projects...
From procurement to real estate: Maryland to reimagine government processes
Maryland is ongoing several government modernization efforts, buoyed by the governor’s executive order in January to streamline operations across every department and agency. While the state faces a major budgeting crisis, the order was originally issued to direct...
Idaho adds four Treasure Valley road projects to $1B transportation program
The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has selected several roadway construction projects in Treasure Valley to receive additional funding from the state. The funding comes from House Bill 25, which was passed last year to provide an annual $20 million diversion...
Profiles in Power: John J. Metro – Jersey City’s Business Administrator
Profiles in Power highlights public officials nationwide who are improving their communities through their dedication, enthusiasm, creativity and experience. This week’s profile is Business Administrator of the city of Jersey City, John J. Metro. My public...
Reauthorized federal administration opens $1.4B in grant opportunities for nationwide disaster recovery
The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is making $1.45 billion available in disaster aid as part of its fiscal year 2025 (FY25) Disaster Supplemental Grant Program. The funds are designed to aid communities affected by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024,...
Illinois lawmakers approve $55B state budget investing in infrastructure, education
With only 30 hours remaining until the deadline, the Illinois General Assembly passed a $55.1 billion state budget for fiscal year 2026 on June 1, featuring the largest site readiness investment in state history alongside significant funding for manufacturing...
Western Kentucky University unveils public-private plan to improve student housing options
The West Kentucky University (WKU) Board of Regents has authorized an innovative new student housing model to replace the university’s oldest dorms. The transformational plan will be part of a public-private partnership (P3) struck between the university and chosen...
Rockland County requests developer for Sain Building redevelopment to mixed-use space
Rockland County, New York, has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment of the 3.69-acre Sain Building site at 18 New Hempstead Road in New City. The RFP will accept development proposals until the deadline on Sept. 17. The six-story building was...
Tampa Bay flood relief project enters planning, design ahead of $65M construction phase
The city of Tampa will spend $69.3 million to provide flood relief and water distribution system improvements to a local neighborhood. Currently in the design phase, major construction is anticipated to begin in 2026 with some limited construction work slated for...
Lawmakers approve $732 million in funding for Wisconsin’s water, wastewater infrastructure
The Joint Finance Committee in Wisconsin has signed off on adding more than $732 million to supplement the Environmental Improvement Fund (EIF), showcasing the Legislature’s overwhelming support for future water projects. The EIF funds the Clean Water Fund Program...
New York launches $100M grant program to modernize community centers
New York is launching a $100 million capital grant program—Building Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors (NY BRICKS)—to help municipalities and nonprofit organizations develop or renovate community centers that promote physical and mental...
Profiles In Power: Bill Miranda – Mayor of Santa Clarita, CA
My public career highlights and education I have a BGS from the University of Nebraska Omaha and an MS in Management from West Coast U. I am a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. I worked in marketing and sales for computer companies IBM, Xerox, and Data General...
MTA secures $68.4B to overhaul New York City’s aging transit system
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is advancing a $68.4 billion initiative to modernize New York’s transit system. The MTA's 2025-2029 Capital Plan focuses on repairing aging infrastructure, improving accessibility and enhancing climate resilience to...
DOT unleashes $5.4B grant opportunity for bridge projects nationwide
The federal government is providing nearly $5.4 billion in grants for major bridge projects throughout America. The new grant opportunities, announced through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), will provide support for state and local municipalities to...
Denver approves $400M equestrian center expansion at National Western Center
The Denver City Council has approved a funding agreement and public-private partnership with a nonprofit to build a transformative equestrian center near downtown. The city will help fund the $400 million expansion project as part of its bid to stimulate economic...
Oklahoma lawmakers adjourn 2025 session, passing bills on energy, safety, municipal authority
Oklahoma lawmakers have concluded their 2025 Legislative session, officially adjourning the 60th session on May 30. The session began in early February and prioritized bills on economic development, education, workforce development, public safety, regulatory...
Mid-Hudson region leverages $627M for housing development after renewed state support
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has announced more than $60 million in awards to promote housing development through the Mid-Hudson Momentum Fund. This announcement marks the second round of awards for the fund, a $150 million initiative launched by New York State in 2023...
‘Lasting Manatee’ plan guides Florida county’s $253M disaster recovery grant
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded Manatee County, Florida, $252.7 million to support long-term recovery efforts from Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton. This is the largest grant allocation the county has ever received. The region...
Lincoln County voters approve $73M bond referendum for safety, modernization
The Lincoln County School District (LCSD) in Oregon has passed a $73 million bond referendum to improve essential facilities across all district buildings. Half of the bond funding will be dedicated to repairing, maintaining and updating schools, ensuring all...
Richmond plans $38M multimodal replacement for 75-year-old Arthur Ashe Bridge
The city of Richmond, Virginia, will spend $38 million to replace a 75-year-old bridge that has outlived its useful service. The Arthur Ashe Boulevard Bridge project will provide safe, multimodal transit options for motorists and non-motorists. Currently in the design...
Profiles in Power: Craig Greenberg – Mayor of Louisville, KY
My public career highlights and education: Mayor Craig Greenberg is a proud Louisvillian, husband, father and entrepreneur who believes in thinking big, working hard, and making things happen. Mayor Greenberg is committed to moving Louisville in a new direction by...
NYC commits $400M to Fifth Avenue transformation
New York City has announced more than $400 million for the revitalization of Manhattan’s iconic Fifth Avenue. Fifth Avenue, located between Bryant Park and Central Park, is home to a variety of luxury brands from Prada to Balenciaga, bringing in millions of visitors...
Portland voters approve $1.8B bond referendum for schools, tech upgrades
Voters in the Portland Public Schools (PPS) district in Oregon have approved a $1.8 billion bond referendum to finance the construction of new schools, updated instructional materials and essential repairs to facilities. The district will spend $974 million on the...
California unveils $1.7B investment for roadway wildfire damage recovery
California’s highway system will receive an influx of $1.7 billion for critical repairs to damaged and unsafe roads. The California Transportation Commission (CTC) allocated the funds to improve safety, mobility and resiliency of the state’s highway network following...
Miami International Airport launches $600M terminal expansion to meet surging demand
Miami International Airport (MIA) is embarking on its largest terminal expansion in nearly two decades. With a new $600.6 million investment approved by the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, six new contact gates and modernized systems will be added to...
Greater Boston transit authority moves ahead with $9.8B in upgrades
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), the nation’s oldest public transit system, is about to get modern upgrades. The MBTA has finalized a sweeping $9.8 billion capital investment plan for fiscal years 2026-2030. The five-year program allocates $1.1...
Wisconsin approves $125M for infrastructure upgrades amid capital budget process
Wisconsin’s State Building Commission (SBC) has approved $125 million in infrastructure improvements across the state. The action comes after some political tensions over spending. The commission rejected a $4.1 billion capital budget proposal in March, and the...
New York passes record $254B budget with spending boosts
Nearly four months of negotiations ended as New York lawmakers have passed a $254 billion state budget, the largest in state history. The budget makes significant investments across transportation, education, social services and environmental programs while preparing...
New Jersey’s $5.33B plan prioritizes infrastructure preservation
New Jersey has proposed a $5.33 billion Transportation Capital Program for fiscal year 2026, with most funding coming from the state's Transportation Trust Fund and federal resources. The plan directs $2 billion from the TTF and approximately $3.25 billion in federal...
California launches $3.3B behavioral health infrastructure plan
California is investing billions of dollars to create a statewide behavioral health system that improves mental health services and facilities. The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) has announced $3.3 billion in grants through the Bond Behavioral...
FTA offers $1.5B to expand clean bus fleets, manufacturing
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has made around $1.5 billion available to help expand bus fleets and manufacturing through two programs. Entities will have the opportunity to apply for a share of the $1.1 billion Low or No Emission Grant Program (Low-No...
AASHTO outlines path to more efficient project funding
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) received a clear message from one of its major partners, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), a nonprofit representing departments of transportation from all 50 states, the...
Arkansas voters pass $385M bond for sewer upgrades
Sewer system improvements in Fort Smith, Arkansas, are primed to move forward following a special election that advanced a $385 million bond issue. Extensive repairs and upgrades to the city’s sewer system are required under a 2015 federal consent decree between the...
DOE audits $15B in grants for energy, manufacturing projects
The Trump administration halted spending, loans and other actions and activities previously planned by the Department of Energy (DOE). Following the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) realignment of federal agencies, the administration has extended funding...
California proposes $20B to keep bullet train on track
California may infuse $20 billion over the next two decades to support its high-speed rail project. The proposal includes support for reliable public transportation, despite a projected $12 billion shortfall in the Fiscal Year 2025 through 2026 budget. Gov. Gavin...
FAA launches massive air traffic control modernization plan
Federal officials are planning an overhaul of air traffic control. The U.S. Department of Transportation is embarking on an ambitious effort. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently unveiled the initiative to redesign the nation's air traffic control...
USDOT commits $3.2B to infrastructure
The federal government is taking a department-wide approach to funding infrastructure projects throughout the nation. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced more than $3.2 billion in funding for 180 infrastructure projects, seeking to push out...
Ohio voters approve $2.5B for roads, water improvements
Ohio is authorizing the issuance of $2.5 billion in general obligation bonds to fund public infrastructure and capital improvement projects—the state’s first bond authorization since 2014. The new bond funding, approved by Ohio voters in the May 6 election, will...
DOE suspends clean energy requirement for federal buildings
Investors in conventional energy and construction engineers may find temporary relief in federal building projects—at least for now. The Department of Energy (DOE) announced a one-year pause on a Biden-era rule requiring a 90% reduction in on-site fossil fuel use by...
Virginia streamlines process for major corporate projects
Virginia has launched a business accelerator to help it compete for high-profile investment projects. The Made in Virginia Investment Accelerator (MVIA) is intended to coordinate state agencies for an efficient and expedited client journey by delivering...
Florida launches portal to streamline broadband grant access
FloridaCommerce has launched the Office of Broadband Grant Registration Portal with the intention of streamlining the application process for future broadband grant programs. The grants will fund programs connecting Florida’s small cities and rural communities to...
$53B Missouri budget targets education, workforce and World Cup
Education, workforce development and infrastructure win out as Missouri’s government prepares for the World Cup in 2026. The Missouri legislature approved a new operating budget for fiscal year (FY) 2026, narrowly avoiding the constitutional deadline. While lawmakers...
Profiles in Power: Andy Gipson, Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce
Andy Gipson - Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, State of Mississippi My public career highlights and education: I attended Mississippi College, where I double majored in history and political science and Christian studies. I learned a lot about public service...
$77.8B Washington budget targets health care, housing
The Washington state legislature has passed a comprehensive budget for fiscal years (FY) 2025-27, narrowly avoiding the end of the legislative session. The new biennial budget, approved just hours before the deadline, will inject $77.8 billion into Washington’s...
D.C. announces $4B stadium deal to bring Commanders home
Lawmakers in the District of Columbia are announcing an agreement to construct a new multipurpose complex, stadium and prospective home for the Washington Commanders. The new agreement, announced by Mayor Muriel Bowser and team ownership, will kickstart a nearly $4...
Pennsylvania tackles aging water systems with $242.8M boost
Pennsylvania is continuing to turn on the tap for clean water projects, following a $1 billion wave of investment over the past year. The Commonwealth recently announced a major investment of $242.8 million to upgrade drinking water and wastewater systems across the...
Hawaii passes $39.7B budget with education, infrastructure focus
Hawaii lawmakers have concluded their budget negotiations, finalizing a $39.7 billion spending package for the next two fiscal years. After extensive discussions between House and Senate leadership, the compromise version of House Bill 300 establishes the financial...
Urban areas race to build infrastructure for returning residents
America's cities are bouncing back after the pandemic saw migration away from the largest urban areas. Metropolitan areas have added nearly 3.2 million people between 2023 and 2024—a growth rate of 1.1% that slightly outpaces the national average, according to new...
Utah district approves $238M bond for new schools
Utah’s Alpine School District Board of Education has unanimously approved a $238 million lease revenue bond to construct a new high school in Saratoga Springs and a new elementary school in Eagle Mountain. Alpine is the state’s largest public school district, serving...
California tackles homelessness with $119M rural housing initiative
California Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state’s Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) have announced $118.9 million in federal funding. The money is intended to expand affordable housing and supportive services across 29 rural and tribal communities in...
NTIA extends $42B BEAD program proposal deadlines
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has extended the deadline for Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program final proposals by 90 days. The extension changes the deadline from 365 days to 455 days after initial approval...
Arkansas invests $575M in water infrastructure through new laws
Three new pieces of legislation in Arkansas were recently signed into law, which the state said represent a $575 million investment into its water infrastructure. The new legislation includes Act 736, allowing more private entities to convert to public water...
Report: Maine schools need $11B in upgrades
Maine’s public schools require $11 billion to renovate, replace and modernize school facilities, a new report finds. The state-led Commission on School Construction has released an interim summary of the new and existing needs of Maine’s public schools, facilities and...
Ohio invests $320M in transportation projects to reduce congestion
Ohio is funding projects that reduce traffic congestion and improve access to multimodal transportation options throughout the state. The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is announcing nearly $320 million in funding for transportation projects through the...
Colorado’s $43.9B budget prioritizes health care, education
Colorado is prioritizing funding for infrastructure, higher education and health care in a new budget for fiscal year (FY) 2025-26. The state’s General Assembly has approved a new spending plan to support the government’s operations, agencies and services, which...
Council approves Elmwood Park Zoo’s $150M transformation plan
Future enhancements to Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown, Pennsylvania, were given the green light after the region's council members voted unanimously to authorize conditional use approval of the zoo’s master plan. The council members voted 6-0 with Councilwoman Jasmine...
Tennessee’s $59.8B budget boosts schools, disaster relief
Tennessee lawmakers have passed a comprehensive budget for fiscal year (FY) 2025-2026, which includes new financial support for emerging state needs, disaster relief and modernizations to aging infrastructure. Tennessee’s new budget, approved by the state’s general...
Profiles in Power: Brad White
Brad White Executive Director, Mississippi Department of Transportation My career highlights and education: I have had the pleasure to serve as a chief of staff four times—once for a governor, twice for U.S. senators and once for the Mississippi Department of Audit....
New York opens applications for $644M in broadband funding
New York has opened the application period for nearly $644 million in funding for projects to expand access to broadband across the state. Applications are due by May 5. The funding will be available through the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD)...
Wisconsin distributes $108M for local transportation
Counties and cities across Wisconsin are set to receive more than $108 million for transportation infrastructure maintenance and improvements in the second quarter, Gov. Tony Evers said. Local governments in Wisconsin are slated to receive more than $540 million in...
DOGE reportedly takes reins of $500B grants.gov platform
The Trump administration is reevaluating a long-standing online platform for federal grants: grants.gov. The online government platform posts and manages over $500 billion in grants annually. The platform provides funding opportunities for municipalities,...
States form alliance to accelerate nuclear energy deployment
A coalition of 11 states is pushing forward to be leaders of America's nuclear energy renaissance. The Advanced Nuclear First Mover Initiative, launched through a partnership between the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) and the U.S. Department of...
California invests $170M to combat wildfires, fast-track projects
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed legislation investing an additional $170 million to prevent catastrophic wildfires through the support of forest and vegetation management projects which are critical to protecting communities from wildfire. He also issued an...
Coal power gets regulatory relief under new White House plan
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is providing temporary regulatory exemptions to some coal-fired power plants, under formal proclamation of the Trump administration. The proclamation, issued by the White House this month, will delay certain coal-fired...
$1.2B in road and bridge work planned for Northeast Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) shared its plans for the 2025 construction season in District 4. The district in northeastern Pennsylvania, comprised of Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties, will see 52 new...
Federal judge orders release of frozen climate project funds
A federal judge in Rhode Island is requiring the Trump administration to release billions of dollars that have already been obligated to climate resilience and infrastructure projects around the nation. The nationwide injunction, issued by U.S. District Judge Mary...
New innovation office to streamline Pennsylvania county services
Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, has launched a new department dedicated to improving service delivery, resource optimization and community service. The Office of Innovation, Strategy and Performance (OISP) will oversee operational excellence, prioritizing work that...
Budget reconciliation reshapes transportation funding future
As federal lawmakers reconcile a new budget for fiscal year 2025 (FY25) and beyond, a flurry of budget and tax cuts will highlight the next year of federal U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) funding. As priorities shift, reevaluating the FY25 transportation...
UW-La Crosse plans $58.5M recreation center overhaul
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UW-La Crosse) will spend $58.5 million to renovate its recreation center. Construction on the Mitchell Hall renovation project is expected to begin in May 2028. The project will prioritize: Replacing the building’s HVAC system...
Profiles in Power: Jennifer Cowley, Ph.D.
Jennifer Cowley, Ph.D. President, The University of Texas at Arlington My public career highlights and education: I’ve been UTA’s president since 2022 as well as a professor of public affairs and planning. I previously held leadership positions at the University of...
Alabama opens $1.4B BEAD grant applications for rural broadband expansion
Grant applications are open through May 22 for Alabama’s $1.4 billion allocation from the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program. The initiative, administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), targets last-mile...
Report: Higher education facilities face growing maintenance backlog
Higher education institutions slowed campus renovations and capital spending in 2024, a new report finds. Construction data and research firm Gordian is unveiling the next installment of The State of Facilities in Higher Education—a comprehensive needs-based analysis...
Florida governor names new appointees to Florida higher education boards
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has made a series of sweeping appointments to multiple Boards of Trustees (BOT) across the state’s higher education systems. A notable appointment to the state’s education leadership is Paul Renner to the Board of Governors of the State...
New AI oversight initiatives gain momentum in state legislatures
Creating and strengthening task forces focused on artificial intelligence is the latest trend at state legislatures across the country. Whether building on previous efforts or initiating something new, the most recent legislative pushes in West Virginia, Illinois and...
Maine plan directs $3.4B to transportation infrastructure
Maine is planning billions of dollars for infrastructure projects to improve, maintain and modernize the state’s transportation system over the next three years. The Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) has unveiled an updated work plan for transportation...
OCTA requests emergency permit to protect Southern California rail line
Southern California’s rail network is facing ongoing threats that could significantly impact vital rail-based travel and safety across the region. Without emergency action from the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), the rail service will likely be...
Energy efficiency efforts drive record investment and savings nationwide
State efforts to enhance energy efficiency through dedicated programs are having a noticeable effect on cost-saving measures and pollution reduction. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), states collectively invested $8.8 billion...
State efficiency programs emerge following federal DOGE model
The drive for state efficiency has swept the nation in the wake of the federal Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) efforts to streamline operations and cut costs. While many states have either begun or already launched their own versions of DOGE to reform the...
Wisconsin mental health institute investing $20 million in utility upgrades
The Mendota Mental Health Institute (MMHI) will spend $19.9 million to improve its facilities, prioritizing upgrades to key utilities. Construction is expected to begin in October 2025. The project will be located at MMHI and the Central Wisconsin Center (CWC). Due to...
Profiles in Power – Reyes Medrano, Jr.
Reyes Medrano, Jr. City Manager Tolleson, Arizona My public career highlights and education: I received a master’s degree in educational psychology and human relations from Northern Arizona University. One of my greatest professional joys has been collaborating with...
New York allocates $80 million for climate resilience projects
In an ongoing effort to combat climate change, New York has made $80 million available to support local climate resiliency projects. Selected applicants will receive aid from up to three programs to develop nature-based and green infrastructure projects that will...
Idaho’s legislative session ends with approval of governor’s priority projects
The Idaho Legislature has officially adjourned, resulting in a highly productive session for the state’s goals. The Legislature ended the 2025 session approving 95% of the governor’s Keeping Promises plan, investing in education, tax relief and infrastructure...
Florida announces $389 million for water quality and infrastructure projects
The state of Florida has distributed a total of $389 million across five separate grant programs to fund critical water resource protection projects. Projects receiving funding include efforts to improve water quality infrastructure, ecosystem restoration efforts and...
Nearly $1 billion available for road safety improvement grants
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) will make $982 million available for the next round of the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program. Applications for the latest SS4A grant round are due by June 26, 2025. The Notice of Funding Opportunity...
Michigan approves amendments putting millions into economic development, manufacturing sector
The Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF)— a part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) efforts to promote economic development and job creation— has made a series of changes and updates to foster startup innovation, support small businesses and spur the...
Profiles in Power: Brad Dunkle – Deputy CIO, Charlotte North Carolina
My public career highlights and education: I spearheaded Charlotte’s first Citywide Strategic Technology Plan and led the city’s first strategic technology planning process, ensuring alignment between business and technology. I managed a $12 million Technology...
States prioritize critical needs in transportation, water, broadband sectors
Infrastructure is taking the spotlight as multiple governors highlight investments in transportation, broadband and water projects during their State of the State addresses. The American Society of Civil Engineers released a 2025 report card on the state of America’s...
Durham to invest $42 million to improve historical parks
The city of Durham, North Carolina, will use $42 million to make major improvements to two city parks. The project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to begin in fall 2026. The project will develop the East End and Long Meadow Parks,...
UW-Madison plans $307 million investment in building research facility, parking
The University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) will spend $306.9 million to build a research building and parking ramp. Construction is expected to begin in January 2028. As part of the university’s first steps in the West Campus District Plan, the project will...
Defense Department seeks industry partners for $1B microelectronics contract
The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking industry partners for a potential $1 billion contract intended to advance and deploy microelectronic technologies across defense systems. As part of an effort called the Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA), the...
Ohio passes $11 billion transportation budget, emphasizing highway and air mobility safety
After its approval through the Ohio Legislature, Gov. Mike DeWine has officially signed the state’s two-year, $11 billion transportation budget. The budget will go into effect July 1, 2025. The budget places a major emphasis on critical transportation infrastructure...
PANYNJ approves $160 million project to expand bus line accessibility, reliability
On March 27, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) Board of Commissioners authorized a $160 million project to enhance the Q70 LaGuardia (LGA) Link bus line. With its approval, the authority’s next move will be to procure a construction contract. Once...
Profiles in Power – Dr. Stephanie Deitrick
Dr. Stephanie Deitrick Chief Data and Analytics Officer at the Center for Integrated Data Innovation City of Tempe, Arizona My public career highlights and education: I earned my master’s degree and my doctorate degree from Arizona State University. I spent about a...
DOI, Alaska partner to reopen natural resource opportunities in oil reserves, wildlife refuges
The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Alaska are collaborating to tap into the state’s natural resource potential. The initiative is part of the federal government’s efforts to promote domestic energy development and growth. To leverage...
University of Wisconsin investing $390 million to revitalize historic buildings
The University of Wisconsin (UW) System will spend $389.9 million to make critical repairs, renovations and restorations to historical on-campus buildings. Construction is expected to begin in May 2028. As part of the restoration efforts, the system has evaluated a...
South Carolina school district plans $285 million expenditure to improve campus facilities
Aiken County Public Schools (ACPS) in South Carolina will spend $285 million on an array of improvement projects across five campuses. South Aiken High School suffers from extensive interior deterioration. To address safety and health concerns, the district will...
HUD, DOI create joint task force to identify underutilized federal land for affordable housing development
The U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Interior (DOI) have formed a joint task force to identify federal lands that are ideal locations to build affordable housing. The Joint Task Force on Federal Land for Housing will lead the combined...
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis makes six appointments, reappointments to university Boards of Trustees
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has made sweeping appointments and reappointments to the Boards of Trustees (BOT) for two state universities. Dr. Larry Antonucci was newly appointed to serve on the Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) BOT. Antonucci has extensive experience...
LA County plans $56 million investment to improve roadway infrastructure, protect pedestrians
Los Angeles County Public Works (LACPW) will invest $56 million to rehabilitate major roads and enhance pedestrian mobility for underserved communities. Currently in the design phase, construction is expected to begin in 2027. The City Terrace Drive rehabilitation...
Sacramento greenlights $677 million plan to safely connect neighborhoods
The Sacramento City Council has approved a $676.9 million plan to improve connectivity, safety and mobility across the city’s neighborhoods. The Neighborhood Connections Plan details 147 street infrastructure improvement projects. In total, they cover 237 miles of...
Honolulu proposes $5 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2026
As part of its proposed $5 billion Fiscal Year 2026 budget, the city of Honolulu will dedicate more than $1.2 billion to capital improvement projects. The funds will be distributed to support and/or advance ongoing improvement projects for public facilities, public...
Profiles in Power – Sam Gaston
Sam Gaston City Manager City of Mountain Brook, Alabama My public career highlights and education: I hold a bachelor’s and master’s degree in public administration from Auburn University. My municipal government career includes roles in Decatur, Gulf Shores and...
States pioneer new bills to reinforce cybersecurity infrastructure, policies for public entities
Shoring up the nation’s cybersecurity measures is growing increasingly important to safeguard security at the local, state and federal levels of government. States are introducing new legislation promoting stronger cybersecurity measures by modernizing IT...
New York county receives $26 million to connect rural communities with broadband network
Oswego County, New York, has received $26 million to build an expansive fiber-to-the-home network to bring internet accessibility to nearly 10,800 homes and businesses. The grant is the state’s latest investment to ensure all New York residents have access to...
Durham to build $43 million aquatic center on vacant roller rink land
The city of Durham, North Carolina, will spend $43 million to build an aquatic center. The project is in the design phase, with construction expected to begin in fall 2026. The aquatic center will be located at Merrick-Moore Park, next to the park’s former roller...
Arkansas governor makes flurry of leadership appointments to the state’s university system
Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has made an array of appointments to the Board of Trustees (BOT) of several institutions in the Arkansas State University System. Randy Lawson has taken a seat on the University of Arkansas (U of A) BOT, with a term to...
UW-Platteville announces $124 million overhaul of engineering building
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville (UW-Platteville) will spend $123.7 million to renovate and expand its engineering building. The project will convert the 60-year-old Ottensman Hall into a flexible learning and collaborative facility. Construction is expected to...
Minnesota-based utility company receives green light for integrated resource plan, driving renewable energy innovation
In an ongoing effort to promote sustainable energy and expand its renewable resource portfolio, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved an energy company’s integrated resource plan (IRP). The 2024-2040 Upper Midwest IRP details a portfolio of...
Ohio launches fourth innovation hub to research 3D printing for aerospace, defense manufacturing
Ohio will launch the state’s fourth innovation hub in Youngstown, leveraging $62 million in local, state, federal and private investments to advance aerospace and defense manufacturing technologies. The Youngstown Innovation Hub for Aerospace and Defense will research...
Profiles in Power – Felicia Donnelly
Felicia Donnelly City Manager - Oldsmar, Florida My public career highlights and education: With over 30 years of experience in municipal leadership, urban planning, capital projects and policy development, I have worked to shape communities through strategic planning...
NYC invests $390 million in historic neighborhood to improve water infrastructure
New York City (NYC) is investing $390 million as part of an ambitious initiative to upgrade critical infrastructure, alleviate flooding and replace service lines. The funds are part of the “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” plan, a foundational effort to provide...
University of Northern Iowa to build $14 million court practice facility
The Iowa Board of Regents recently authorized the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) to build a $14 million court practice facility. Currently in the design phase, construction is expected to begin in late 2025. The McLeod Center, which currently serves as the practice...
California distributes $300 million to make roadways safer for pedestrians
In an effort to reduce traffic deaths and injuries along California’s roadways, the state has allocated almost $300 million to develop and implement safer road designs and amenities. The investments will progress California’s safety initiatives to achieve zero roadway...
Wisconsin school receives approval for $25 million dormitory
The Wisconsin School for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing will build a $25 million student dormitory. Currently in the design phase, construction is expected to begin in September 2025. The project will consist of a 50,500-square-foot, three-story campus dormitory. The...
Illinois EPA distributes $113 million to improve water, wastewater infrastructure
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released $112.7 million to advance water and wastewater infrastructure projects. Local governments and water districts are the primary funding recipients and will use the grants to support critical efforts to...
Atlanta Regional Commission adopts amendment allocating $272 million to transportation projects and plans
The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) Board has adopted an amendment to the agency’s transportation and transportation improvement plans. The amendment incorporates $82.7 million from discretionary grants and $164.7 million in additional federal funding. The amendment...
Virginia town proposes $368 million six-year Capital Improvement Program
The town of Leesburg, Virginia, has proposed a six-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to allocate $368 million to critical projects from fiscal years 2026 to 2031. There are 12 new projects added to the CIP, bringing the total to 79 projects planned for...
Profiles in Power – LeeAnn Kittle
LeeAnn Kittle Executive Director of Sustainability - Denver Public Schools, Colorado What I like best about my public service is: Growing up with parents who met through social work, I was raised with a deep understanding of the importance of giving back. Their...
Los Angeles to spend $45 million on flood mitigation and regional resiliency projects
Los Angeles County Public Works will invest $45 million to restore a lake and enhance a canyon channel. The projects will be critical in increasing regional resiliency, improving water quality and reducing flood dangers. Currently in the design phase, bidding for...
New foreign adversary policies redefine government contracting
Both the public and private sectors should anticipate major industrial shakeups as states move to prohibit contracting with companies linked to certain foreign adversaries. Legislative bans on international contracts are intended to mitigate and prevent cybersecurity...
North Carolina announces $265 million to address water contamination, replace lead pipes
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) will distribute more than $265.4 million to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in water supplies and to identify and replace lead pipes. Recipients will supplement the awards...
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein reveals cabinet appointments
Josh Stein was officially sworn into office as North Carolina’s 76th governor Jan. 1, 2025. Prior to his gubernatorial appointment, Gov. Stein served the North Carolina Department of Justice (NC DOJ) as attorney general. He also served as a state senator between 2009...
University of Iowa plans $81.4 million renovation project for student resource building
The Iowa University Board of Regents has approved an $81.4 million University of Iowa (UI) project to renovate a cornerstone campus facility. Currently in the design phase, construction is anticipated to begin in 2025 and will be implemented across five phases. The...