Highway Projects – $27.5 Billion
The Department of Transportation has $27.5 billion that it will use to create jobs and restore the economy with an emphasis on sustainable investments and environmental quality. The bulk of the funding will go to contractors for new roads and bridges projects, although public works departments will also be expanded.
$799 million has been designated for transportation enhancement projects, i.e. non-vehicular projects and will be distributed under as grants. The top three projects that have fallen into this category over the past few years are bike paths, historic restoration of public buildings (such as railroad depots), and landscaping/beautification.
$40 million has been designated for management and oversight. This funding represents a good opportunity for general business marketers.
When will the money be available?
Apportionment has occurred. Priority is being given to projects that can be completed in a 3-year timeframe or those located in economically distressed areas. The funds will be disbursed 100 days following apportionment. The Secretary of Transportation will withdraw any funds that have not been obligated by the end of year 1. Conversely, The Secretary can also provide a 1-year extension.
Who will decide what to purchase?
The decision makers include directors of public works, transportation, roads & bridges, utilities, economic development, emergency services, finance, IT, parks & rec, planning, public safety, and purchasing. In addition, street superintendents, city engineers, county engineers, mayors, county commissioners, city managers, GIS coordinators, and grant coordinators are good targets.
What will they be buying?
The decision makers will be purchasing equipment, training materials, raw materials, construction materials, computer hardware and software, safety supplies and signage, office supplies and accessories, etc.
Decision makers who receive funding under the $799 million transportation enhancement will be purchasing park benches, waste receptacles, sprinklers, water fountains, lawnmowers, garden carts, maintenance and safety equipment, playground equipment, public address systems, outdoor lighting, security systems, signage, temporary and permanent shelters, rest rooms and supplies, port-a-potties, and more.
Decision makers who are responsible for making purchases under the $40 million management and oversight set-aside will be buying computers/laptops, hardware, software, networking, mobile computing products, communications equipment, furniture, office supplies, safety, signage, training materials, vehicles, identification materials, and uniforms/logo gear. In addition, some of the funding could be used for hiring additional staff.
All projects initiated as a result of receiving stimulus funds will most likely have special signage, e.g. “This project is brought to you using American Recovery and Reinvestment funding.”
MCH can help you target these decision makers with high-quality marketing data. Request more information by using this form or call us now at 1-800-776-6373.
What does it mean for your business?
In summary, there are significant portions of the highway project funds that represent great opportunities for B2B marketers. If you’ve been successfully marketing products and services mentioned, redouble your efforts. If you haven’t marketed into this segment yet yet, call MCH today for an evaluation or use this form to request more information.
MCH is America’s leading compiler of business-to-institution marketing data. We have more than 80 years of experience helping companies sell to schools, school districts, and other educational institutions. Contact us today to find out how you can effectively target the $27.5 billion in new highway project funding.
