A TIGER by the tail: this one may be running on empty
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A "handful of projects" that TxDOT will support will be identified, he said. "After talking to our partners at USDOT, we're looking at port and rail projects this time. The focus will be on small groups of projects that meet the criteria and aspirations of USDOT."
According to USDOT, the scope of the projects must include that they will have a significant impact on the country, a region or metropolitan area and they must create jobs. Among the criteria for selection include contributing to the long-term economic competitiveness of the nation, improving the condition of current transportation facilities and systems, improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving the safety of American transportation facilities and improving the quality of living and working environments of communities through increased transportation choices and connections.
"It's not a lot of money," said Lippincott. "It's discretionary and we didn't get much the first time around. We'll certainly compete for it, but I don't think anybody should have high hopes - they should probably keep their expectations on a downhill trajectory."
Pre-applications will be accepted through July 16 and applications are due Aug. 23 from state and local governments.
