Federal investment can be drawn from several sources. Congress appropriates funding to USDOT and authorizes transportation programs based on national priorities. USDOT and its operating administrations provide funding for these programs to invest in transportation infrastructure, safety, and innovation across the country. USDOT has competitive discretionary grant programs used to fund various types of tribal transportation projects and activities.
The Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success (R.O.U.T.E.S.) Initiative supports potential applicants in identifying and navigating USDOT discretionary grant funding opportunities for rural transportation projects. The ROUTES Grant Funding Matrix has provided the following guidance for potential applicants on how to make informed decisions about each program.
(Includes project design, site assessments, environmental reviews and/or analysis)
(Includes asset and facility development, repair, replacement, rehabilitation, and/or expansion)
(Includes acquisition, purchase, and/or leasing of vehicles and machinery)
(Includes installations and system integration)
(Includes skills development, public awareness campaigns, and information sharing)
The Office of Tribal Transportation (OTT) administers the Tribal Transportation Program (TTP) and provides stewardship and oversight for direct funding agreements with 135 federally recognized Tribes. The OTT also provides support for all FHWA activities affecting tribal transportation. This support includes the administration of TIGER/BUILD grants awarded to Tribes, and the transfer of funds from States and other local governments to Tribes through the 202(a)(9) transfer process.
In addition, the FHWA Office of Tribal Transportation manages the Tribal Transportation Program Bridge Program and the Tribal Transportation Program Safety Fund for all federally recognized Tribes. These grant programs are set asides from the overall Tribal Transportation Program.
For more information on OTT programs and funding opportunities: https://highways.dot.gov/federal-lands/programs-tribal