Department of Transportation Cuts 3,200 Grants, Redirects $3.2 Billion Towards Infrastructure
In a significant policy shift, the U.S. Department of Transportation has announced the elimination of 3,200 grants, removing a total of $3.2 billion from social justice and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives initiated under the Biden administration. The Daily Caller reports that while these funds have been reallocated, 180 projects will continue to receive funding, albeit without the previous social justice and environmental components.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy articulated a focus on core infrastructure goals, stating, "America is building again. At the Department of Transportation, that means getting back to basics: Building More, Building Efficiently, and Building Quickly." He criticized the previous administration for prioritizing headlines over substantial infrastructure development.
Among the projects benefiting from the reallocated funds is a major $550 million grant earmarked for the construction of the I-10 Mobile River Bridge in Alabama, aligning with a campaign promise from former President Donald Trump. This project, along with others, signifies a renewed commitment to enhancing the nation’s infrastructure.
Additional funding allocations include $1.4 billion for 17 projects under the Bridge Investment Program, $277 million for 33 projects in the airport terminal program, and $221 million for six projects targeting Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements.
The move is positioned as a strategic redirect towards tangible infrastructure enhancements, marking a pivot from previous administration priorities that melded social objectives with transportation funding. Duffy’s comments suggest a clear intention to streamline funding towards projects deemed essential for national development, establishing a foundation aimed at rebuilding and modernizing America’s infrastructure.
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