The U.S. Department of Transportation has opened applications for the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods (RCN) Program. This program aims to improve transportation infrastructure and reconnect communities to economic opportunities. The streamlined application process is said to simplify submissions and provide more opportunities for communities seeking funding for projects that address past infrastructure planning issues, promote equitable community revitalization, and enhance access to essential destinations.

Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of transportation in connecting communities, stating, "Transportation should never divide communities ?EUR" its purpose is to connect people to jobs, schools, housing, groceries, family, places of worship, and more." He further added, "We are making it easier for communities to seek and receive the funding they need to build better, safer, inclusive infrastructure for the future."

 

The funding available for the RCN Program includes $198 million for the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program and $3.155 billion for the Neighborhood Access and Equity Program. These funds will be allocated for capital construction grants, community planning grants, and regional partnerships challenge grants, encouraging collaboration and leveraging federal, state, and regional resources to address transportation challenges.

To further assist communities, the Department of Transportation has partnered with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) to provide technical assistance in planning and building infrastructure that improves access. This collaboration aims to leverage additional resources and support more organizations working towards development and enhanced mobility options.

The application deadline for the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program is September 28th, 2023.

https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/biden-harris-administration-announces-new-streamlined-funding-application-process