Miles SmithThe Nebraska Department of Transportation has launched a new center charged with helping state and local public agencies compete for federal grants.
The Nebraska Infrastructure Hub was created to help communities navigate the challenges of the grant application and administration process, NDOT said.
“Technical assistance will be available from development and grant application through project delivery, ensuring once funding is awarded projects are ready to swiftly move forward,” NDOT Director Vicki Kramer said.
The new hub was formed to take advantage of growing grant opportunities made available with the creation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure law in 2021, NDOT said.
Through technical assistance from NDOT, the hub will support communities from initial application through project administration, ensuring compliance with federal requirements and deadlines.
Key components of the hub include a grant-pairing portal to match projects with suitable grants and a Project Development Support team, staffed by two full-time members, who provide personalized assistance and feedback on draft proposals.
The program will also facilitate partnerships and networking opportunities, offer technical support through on-call consultants to enhance proposals, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation of grant-funded projects to ensure compliance and success.
“The establishment of the Nebraska Infrastructure Hub represents a proactive approach to advancing infrastructure development and enhancing transportation systems within the state,” NDOT said. “By centralizing decision-making, promoting transparency, and fostering collaboration, the Hub will play a pivotal role in accelerating the delivery of critical infrastructure projects and driving sustainable economic growth and prosperity across Nebraska communities.”
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