Phoenix planning ways to spend federal infrastructure dollars
Phoenix is working on early plans to spend its share from the Federal Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act of 2021, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The White House says the law, “will rebuild America’s roads, bridges and rails, expand access to clean drinking water, ensure every American has access to high-speed internet, tackle the climate crisis, advance environmental justice, and invest in communities that have too often been left behind.”
While Phoenix is awaiting more information from the federal government, here are some potential spending avenues:
Transportation
The law includes $15 billion over five years for airports. Based on the distribution formula, Phoenix expects to get $222 million. The Aviation Department wants to fund airfield projects, like a new taxiway to reduce airfield congestion.
Phoenix Public Transit expects to get about $300 million based on a distribution formula.
The law also includes billions more in competitive grants — that means cities have to apply. Phoenix plans to apply for light rail extensions to the state Capitol and into west Phoenix, along with bus rapid transit along 35th Avenue. The city will also compete for funding to cover low to no emissions buses.
Water
The law calls for $35 billion to fund drinking water and wastewater projects and $8.3 billion for water resource infrastructure.
Phoenix has identified more than $4 billion in water infrastructure enhancements, including new wells and reservoirs, water treatment plant rehabilitations, water main replacements and facility security.
According to a city report, Phoenix also plans to see funding for electric vehicles and charging stations for the public works department. On Wednesday, a city subcommittee will discuss the federal law and spending options.
