Over the last two years, the response to our popular TIGER (that's Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) grant program has been overwhelming. We've already provided $2.1 billion for 126 projects that are creating jobs and investing in transportation networks nationwide.
And we're not stopping there.
I'm pleased to announce that we're making an additional $527 million available for a third round of TIGER funding. And we're encouraging states, cities, and local governments to submit their applications.
Now, we expect these dollars to be in high demand. During the previous two rounds, DOT received more than 2,500 applications requesting more than $79 billion for transportation projects across the country.
But our competitive grant program will ensure that only the most beneficial and innovative transportation solutions are selected. Projects will be chosen based on their ability to:
- Contribute to the long-term economic competitiveness of the nation,
- Upgrade the safety and quality of existing transportation infrastructure and facilities,
- Increase energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and
- Improve the quality of life in communities through better transportation choices and connections.
It's building a multi-modal transit center in Kent, Ohio. It's bringing streetcars to Salt Lake City, Utah. It's helping to complete a 128-mile regional network of pedestrian and bicycle facilities around Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. And that's just the beginning.
As I've said before, TIGER is not just another grant program. It's a new way of recognizing merit that breaks through old formulas and rewards American innovation that serves American communities. And I can't wait to get this new round of funding out the door.
I hope more people can benefit from these grants.
Posted by: Mel Lifshitz | July 05, 2011 at 12:36 PM
I am against all new train building and line laying in the USA. I would that each of these projects is halted until a review can be made by the people.
Brandy Allen
Posted by: Brandy Allen | July 07, 2011 at 01:35 PM
This is the smartest and most innovative program in teh federal government today.
Posted by: Andrew Howard | July 12, 2011 at 08:24 PM
Use TIGER Funds for rest areas and combat fatigued driving.
Posted by: Kari Fisher | July 19, 2011 at 06:30 AM
I am against all new train building and line laying in US, and hope more people can benefit from these grants.
Posted by: whoiscaller | July 21, 2011 at 09:01 AM
Please distribute these funds wisely. I've heard money is going to new transit projects, which are bad projects that could not qualify for small starts funds for poor performance or lack of operating funds.
Posted by: Transitrider | August 06, 2011 at 05:49 PM
Very interesting story!! Great work with this... Really impressed at the hard work and dedication you guys have put in!!! It’s a cool concept.
Thanks
Maria Shuva
Stratus Building Solutions
Posted by: Maria Shuva | January 26, 2012 at 01:55 PM
I've heard money is going to new transit projects, which are bad projects that could not qualify for small starts funds for poor performance or lack of operating funds. I would that each of these projects is halted until a review can be made by the people.
Posted by: louis outlet | April 05, 2012 at 05:41 AM
How are they going to provide the funds with the current debt.
Posted by: reverse phone lookup | April 06, 2012 at 03:52 AM