USDOT announced a significant policy change to the TIFIA program, enabling all transportation projects to finance up to 49% of eligible costs and accelerating infrastructure development nationwide. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The update marks a major shift from previous guidelines, which limited most projects to 33%. With this change, every eligible project can access higher credit, making financing easier and more predictable for sponsors.

USDOT Expands TIFIA Loan Access for Transportation Projects
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USDOT Expands TIFIA Program Benefits

USDOT’s decision aims to simplify funding access and reduce project delays. Officials emphasized that uniform loan limits provide fairness and flexibility, helping states and private partners manage budgets more effectively.

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Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted the benefits: “We are building infrastructure easier, quicker, and cheaper because of this update,” he said. The new approach follows thorough analysis, successful pilots, and feedback from stakeholders.

USDOT TIFIA loans offer long-term, low-interest financing for both public and private transportation projects. Recipients must repay these loans using nonfederal sources, ensuring financial sustainability while limiting reliance on federal grants.

How USDOT Policy Supports Faster Delivery?

The expansion to 49% coverage significantly cuts financing costs. Projects can progress faster without waiting for additional federal support, which often involves complex approval processes and delays.

Industry experts note that easier access to affordable loans could transform infrastructure development strategies. With fewer funding gaps, timelines become more reliable, and communities benefit from quicker delivery of critical transportation networks.

USDOT expects this policy to reduce the need for extra grants and encourage investment in highways, rail, and transit systems. Ultimately, these changes strengthen the nation’s infrastructure framework and promote economic growth across all regions.

Source: www.progressiverailroading.com

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