The Biden-Harris Administration has announced the availability of applications for the BUILD grants 2026 program, allocating $1.8 billion to fund significant infrastructure modernization and transportation projects across US states. This competitive grant program, officially known as the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Transportation Discretionary Grant program, aims to address critical infrastructure needs nationwide, but will it truly deliver the transformative change states require?
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 BUILD grants program offers $1.8 billion for infrastructure projects, with applications now open through Grants.gov.
- Projects focusing on safety, economic competitiveness, environmental sustainability, and quality of life are prioritized for funding.
- Small projects (under $25 million total cost) are allocated a minimum of 10% of total funds, ensuring broader access for diverse communities.
- Applicants must demonstrate a significant local financial commitment, with federal share generally capped at 80% for most projects.
- The Department of Transportation (DOT) expects to announce award recipients by late 2026, with project implementation to follow.
Context and Background
The BUILD grant program (formerly known as TIGER grants) has a history of supporting a wide array of projects, from highway and bridge repairs to public transit expansions and port upgrades. This year’s allocation reflects an ongoing federal commitment to improving the nation’s aging infrastructure, a challenge that has plagued state and local governments for decades. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the US infrastructure received a C- grade in their most recent report, highlighting persistent deficiencies across multiple sectors. This isn’t a new problem; the need for sustained investment has been clear for years. The 2026 program continues the trend of directing federal dollars towards projects that can demonstrate tangible benefits beyond just fixing potholes.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) emphasizes several key selection criteria for the 2026 grants. Projects enhancing safety remain paramount, a critical consideration given the rising number of traffic fatalities in recent years. Initiatives that boost economic competitiveness, improve environmental sustainability, and enhance the quality of life for residents are also central to the evaluation process. This holistic approach signals a recognition that infrastructure is more than just concrete and steel; it’s about community well-being and future prosperity. We’ve seen past BUILD grants fund everything from new rail lines connecting rural areas to urban centers, to critical upgrades at major freight hubs like the Port of Savannah, which saw significant federal investment in previous cycles.
Implications for States and Localities
For states and municipalities, securing a BUILD grant can be a game-changer, but it requires meticulous planning and a compelling application. The program is highly competitive, and only projects that align closely with federal priorities and demonstrate strong local support tend to succeed. For example, a proposal for a new multimodal transportation hub in Atlanta, integrating MARTA rail with bus rapid transit and pedestrian walkways, would likely score well due to its impact on congestion, air quality, and economic access for residents. Conversely, a simple road resurfacing project without broader community benefits might struggle to compete against more ambitious, transformative proposals.
A significant aspect of the 2026 program is the dedicated funding for smaller projects. A minimum of 10% of the total $1.8 billion is reserved for projects with a total cost of less than $25 million. This provision aims to ensure that smaller communities and rural areas, often overlooked in large-scale federal funding initiatives, have a fair shot at securing resources for their own critical needs. This is a smart move, frankly. Not every impactful project has a billion-dollar price tag, and neglecting smaller, localized improvements can have cumulative negative effects on regional economies. Applicants must also demonstrate a substantial local financial commitment, with the federal share generally capped at 80% of eligible project costs. This requirement ensures that states and local entities have skin in the game, promoting responsible project management and long-term sustainability.
What’s Next
Applications for the BUILD grants 2026 program are currently open and must be submitted through Grants.gov. Prospective applicants should carefully review the detailed Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) available on the DOT website, as it outlines specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and evaluation metrics. The deadline for submissions is typically several months out, allowing ample time for comprehensive proposal development, though I’d advise against waiting until the last minute. The DOT expects to announce award recipients by late 2026. This timeline allows for necessary environmental reviews, planning, and design phases to commence, with many projects likely breaking ground in 2027 or 2028. States that have already identified shovel-ready projects with clear community benefits and strong local partnerships will undoubtedly have an advantage in this competitive landscape. Strategic planning now, not later, determines success in these programs.
What types of projects are eligible for BUILD grants?
Eligible projects include highway and bridge improvements, public transit systems, freight rail, port facilities, and intermodal projects. The DOT prioritizes projects that enhance safety, economic competitiveness, environmental sustainability, and quality of life.
What is the maximum federal share for a BUILD grant project?
The federal share for most BUILD grant projects is capped at 80% of eligible project costs. Applicants are typically required to provide a minimum 20% local match, which can come from state, local, or private sources.
Are there specific funds for smaller transportation projects?
Yes, the 2026 BUILD grants program reserves a minimum of 10% of the total $1.8 billion allocation for projects with a total cost of less than $25 million. This ensures funding access for smaller communities.
Where can I find the official application materials for BUILD grants?
All official application materials, including the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and submission instructions, are available on the Grants.gov website. It is essential to review these documents thoroughly before applying.
When are the BUILD grant awards expected to be announced?
The Department of Transportation (DOT) anticipates announcing the award recipients for the 2026 BUILD grants program by late 2026. This allows time for project planning and environmental assessments before construction begins.
