The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking public input on issues that should be addressed when Congress takes up reauthorization of the surface transportation legislation over the next year. The information will help DOT prepare its proposal for the reauthorization effort. The department asked for input to prioritize funding, streamline project delivery, and address emerging challenges in safety, climate resilience, and technology integration. DOT officials emphasized that the RFI is intended to ensure that the law is applied in a way that reflects both congressional intent and the practical needs of state and local transportation agencies, as well as the private sector.
In response, state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations asked for clearer federal guidance to help accelerate delivery of long-delayed infrastructure projects. Construction and engineering groups urged DOT to focus on simplifying permitting and regulatory reviews, which they pointed out continue to slow project delivery despite recent reforms. Construction groups also called for funding to be provided through a formula allowing states to target their individual investment needs. The current law directs more dollars through grant programs focused on federal priorities.
The current transportation bill expires on September 30, 2026. Both Senate and House committees of jurisdiction have already begun a series of hearings to help with the drafting process. Overall, the RFI has sparked broad engagement across the transportation sector, reflecting the wide range of priorities tied to federal surface transportation programs. Business groups see the process as a chance to shape rules that will guide billions of dollars in federal investment. DOT has indicated the comments will be used to direct how the surface transportation program can be implemented with the most positive impact in the coming years.