The Top Ten Things to Know about CTBILT

We’re not David Letterman, but everyone loves a good top ten list! Without further ado, here are ten things you should know about CTBILT:

1.????The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (#BIL for short) is the largest long-term investment in our infrastructure in nearly a century – and it includes 380 national programs that provide funding opportunities for states, cities, towns and businesses.

2.????Connecticut doesn’t have a checking account with the #BIL funds in it. Instead, 55% of available funding is given directly to agencies and existing programs, while the remaining 45% are made up of competitive grants that communities can access. Eligibility is determined by program, so those applying for grants should read the qualifications carefully.

3.????The #BIL goes beyond roads and bridges – changing the old definition of infrastructure. Mass transit, potable drinking water for all, climate resiliency, expanding access to high-speed internet, and tackling legacy pollution are just some of the improvements to come. ?

4.????The CTBILT team is diffused throughout the State. Although we’re a dedicated group of three, the team works with everyone in government – starting with our local officials and state legislators all the way to our federal delegation and the White House. We also work alongside our partners at the Connecticut Department of Transportation, Connecticut Department of Public Health, and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to track and identify projects.

5.????The CTBILT team is working through five years of funding through the #BIL. You can view the list of open funding opportunities and a comprehensive grants database on the CTBILT website.

6.????The Justice40 initiative – whereby 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments must be provided to disadvantaged communities that are underserved and overburdened by pollution – also applies to the #BIL’s programs. But this is not a one-time investment, as the initiative is a series of changes designed to improve how government ensures equitable distribution of program benefits. You can learn more here.

7.????The #BIL, Inflation Reduction Act and American Rescue Plan Act are three different pieces of legislation that can overlap. Grant-eligible entities should look at all the funding opportunities available to them through these three bills and combine funding as needed.

8.????The #BIL will make life better for millions of Connecticut residents. You can expect a wide range of projects to begin soon, including brownfield remediation; addressing water quality and habitat restoration on Long Island Sound; replacing diesel school buses with electric school buses; expanding the current network of EV chargers across the state; and replacing lead pipe and service water lines.

9.????Our website is a one-stop shop for all information and important resources related to the #BIL in Connecticut – bookmark it today!

10.?Last – yes, we’re really bipartisan! The #BIL passed with votes from both parties in Congress, and our CTBILT team is led by Department of Revenue Services Commissioner and Senior Advisor to the Governor on Infrastructure Mark Boughton. We’re proud to serve the Governor’s diverse administration while delivering on the promise of better infrastructure for all.

We want to hear from you – how will infrastructure improvements improve your lives in Connecticut? Let us know! Your answers could be featured in an upcoming blog.

Find us on Twitter and at ct.gov/ctbilt.