Arizona launched an effort to ensure the state continues to efficiently and effectively use federal infrastructure funds. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) Task Force will strategically align Arizona’s priorities and investments with competitive federal funding opportunities.
“In the last seven years, Arizona has made significant investments in broadband expansion, energy grid resilience, and more infrastructure improvements. Especially throughout the pandemic, we utilized federal and state funds to continue to build on Arizona’s economic resiliency,” said Gov. Doug Ducey on the kick off of the task force. “The federal infrastructure package was way too expensive, but it did pass and we will take full advantage of its competitive funding and optimize these once-in-a-generation funds to support our state’s future.”
The infrastructure funds present an opportunity for Arizona to continue investing in ensuring resiliency for the state’s economy.
Leading the effort is the state’s Chief Operating Officer Sarah Rose Webber, who will serve as the state coordinator of the IIJA.
“It’s not just about the things we build, but the people and the lives we will impact for generations to come,” said Webber at the initial task force meeting today. “We often don’t think about infrastructure, but it’s a part of our daily lives. We have a lot to do very quickly, and if we speak and act with one voice, Arizona is better positioned to receive these funds. The IIJA Task Force will set Arizona up for success by building a framework for our state to compete for funding and administer funding statewide.”
The task force is a team of Arizona agency heads, technical and subject matter experts and other critical players that will look to enhance collaboration, optimize investments and track performance related to IIJA in Arizona. The task force will work with local leaders, private industry, and tribal governments to coordinate funding.
With such a large amount of funds available, Arizona agencies will work together to ensure these investments are a force multiplier on state investments to benefit Arizonans.