What is the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act?
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), is a once-in-a-generation investment in our infrastructure. The IIJA will help grow the economy, enhance U.S. competitiveness, rebuild our roads, bridges and rails, upgrade our water infrastructure, ensure every Nevadan has access to high-speed internet, tackle the climate crisis, advance environmental justice, and create thousands of good-paying jobs.
Who is eligible to receive IIJA funding?
Eligibility for funding is determined by federal law and varies depending on the specific IIJA program. For instance, funding for some IIJA programs, such as the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant, are only available for States, Territories, and the District of Columbia. However, eligibility for other IIJA programs, such as the Middle Mile Grant Program, is more expansive and includes States, Counties, Cities/Townships, Tribal governments, Public Utility Districts, Non-Profits, and more.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Guidebook provides details on eligibility requirements for all IIJA programs.
How much money is Nevada receiving under the IIJA?
Over the next five years, Nevada is expected to receive over $4 billion in formula funding alone. The State is also applying for millions of dollars in competitive grants through the IIJA.
How soon will funds from the IIJA come to Nevada?
As of November 2022, $1.7 billion in IIJA funding has been announced and is headed to Nevada with over 70 specific projects identified for funding. This year alone, Nevada will receive more than $690 million for transportation to invest in roads, bridges, public transit, ports and airports and over $71 million for water. Many more projects will be added in the coming months, as funding opportunities become grant awards and as formula funds become specific projects. Learn more here.
How is IIJA funding being used in Nevada?
IIJA funds are being used to rebuild our roads, bridges, and highways, create sustainable public transportation, improve our airports, upgrade our water infrastructure, bring high-speed internet to all, and more. Notably, as of November 2022, more than 161,000 households across Nevada are receiving affordable internet because of the IIJA.
What is the difference between formula and competitive funding under the IIJA?
There are two ways eligible entities can receive funding under the IIJA. First, resources are provided via direct funding, also known as “formula funding.” This funding is distributed based on formulas specified in federal law. Eligible entities, such as states, Tribal communities, and localities, may also apply for additional funding via competitive grants. The designated federal agency then awards competitive grants on a rolling basis.
Are Tribal communities eligible for IIJA funding?
Yes. The IIJA represents the single largest investment in Tribal infrastructure ever. The IIJA provides more than $13 billion in funding to directly support Tribal communities across the United States and makes Tribes eligible to apply for or request billions in discretionary, formula, and other funding. Governor Sisolak and the Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada recently announced the Council received an $18.9 million grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to expand Internet access to 11 Tribal communities in Nevada. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Tribal Playbook provides additional information on IIJA funding opportunities for Tribal communities.
Are rural communities eligible for IIJA funding?
Yes. The IIJA invests billions of dollars in rural communities across the United States. IIJA funding for rural communities will be used to deliver affordable, high-speed internet, build safer roads and bridges, modernize wastewater systems, ensure communities have clean drinking water, reliable and affordable electricity, and create good-paying jobs. In fact, the City of Fernley was recently awarded $25 million in IIJA funds to complete the Nevada Pacific Parkway connecting I-80 to Highway 50. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Rural Playbook provides information on how rural communities can access IIJA funding.
Where do I find a list of funding opportunities and applicable deadlines under the IIJA?
To learn about specific funding opportunities under the IIJA, please refer to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Guidebook or visit Build.Gov. Additionally, a list of open IIJA grant programs is available here.
What is the Justice40 Initiative?
The Justice40 Initiative mandates that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. Designated federal investments include investments in clean energy and energy efficiency; clean transit; affordable and sustainable housing; training and workforce development; the remediation and reduction of legacy pollution; and the development of clean water infrastructure. Learn more about the Justice40 Initiative here.
How does the IIJA benefit small businesses?
Small businesses stand to benefit from the IIJA in several ways. Direct effects of infrastructure investments for small businesses include opportunities for federal and state prime contracts and subcontracts to repair roads and bridges, upgrade ports and airports, lay fiber optic cable for rural broadband, or repair and upgrade public transit. There are also longer-term effects, such as the easing of supply chains, making goods more accessible, and making raw materials more affordable. Additionally, high-speed internet deployment will help small businesses compete digitally by reaching new customers and recruiting more workers to overcome labor shortages.
Can I request IIJA funding from the State?
No. Funding under the IIJA is determined by federal, formula-based allocations that will be awarded directly to eligible entities, including applicable agencies for the State of Nevada. Additionally, states, local governments, outside organizations, Tribes, and other eligible entities can apply for competitive grants under the IIJA. A list of IIJA competitive grants is available on Build.Gov.