Where’s All the Infrastructure Funding Going?
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Two topics I’ve heard a lot about over these last several months. All the infrastructure spending talk got me to thinking that it would be interesting to see just how the funding is being used, where’s it’s being used and how much of it is going toward trenchless work.
After doing a little research, I came across The United States Conference of Mayors recent report that gave brief examples, as provided by Mayors, of how cities were using ARPA funds. Here’s just a quick overview of the cities that specifically mentioned infrastructure projects1:
- Akron, Ohio: $10 million to replace lead water lines and aging water mains
- Fontana, California: variety of critical infrastructure projects including Cypress Storm Drain, the Septic to Sewer program, Fiber to City facilities and a Sewer and Storm Drain Infrastructure masterplan.
- Germantown, Tennessee: stormwater conveyance maintenance and improvements, water and utility infrastructure to add resilience and redundant operations to protect residents.
- Indianapolis, Indiana: $50 million for stormwater infrastructure upgrades
- Jackson, Minnesota: build a 48-in. water main to improve water distribution to areas in the city where schools and residents have low to no water pressure
- Methuen, Massachusetts: extensive upgrades to centuries-old water and sewer issues throughout the city
- Ormond Beach, Florida: improve water infrastructure
- Pinellas Park, Florida: replace a main interceptor sewer line
- Rochester, New York: replacement of lead service pipes
- Sesser, Illinois: new water infrastructure
- Springfield, Illinois: complete sewer infrastructure; re-line sewers
- Toledo, Ohio: $10 million to replace lead water lines in the city
There are a number of other trackers, but one I thought was particularly useful was the Local Government ARPA Investment Tracker, a resource that provides a snapshot of how larger cities are utilizing ARPA funding: brookings.edu/interactives/arpa-investment-tracker/. This tracker is a joint project by Brookings Metro, the National Association of Counties, and the National League of Cities.
Speaking of infrastructure spending, be sure to check out Part II of a special three-part series from Wade Trim. This article focuses on funding that relates to water distribution and sewer rehab; Part III is set for our May issue and focuses on funding relating to tunnels and shaft construction.
2022 Trenchless Technology Project of the Year Nominations
It’s time to recognize the records broken, milestones achieved, innovative thinking and technical advancements made on trenchless projects across North America. Nominate your award-winning project and it may be featured on the cover of Trenchless Technology’s October issue! New installation and rehabilitation projects completed between June 19, 2021 and June 17, 2022, are eligible for nomination. The submission deadline June 17. For more details and the nomination form visit trenchlesstechnology.com/project-of-the-year-submission/
2023 Trenchless Technology Person of the Year Nominations
The trenchless industry has an abundance of innovative thinkers, hard-working individuals who are dedicated to their work and passionate about the trenchless industry. I’m sure you know some! Take a minute and nominate someone you know is deserving of the 2023 Trenchless Technology Person of the Year. The winner will be presented as the March 2023 cover story. The Person of the Year is chosen based on the recent and lifetime achievements and demonstrated leadership abilities. Nominations are due by Oct. 14, 2022. For more details and the nomination form visit trenchlesstechnology.com/2023-trenchless-technology-person-of-the-year-nominations/
As always, the Trenchless Technology staff is here to serve you, our readers. Please feel free to reach out to me at kvannatten@benjaminmedia.com or 234-380-3030, if you have any topic suggestions or comments!
Until next month!
Publisher, Trenchless Technology
