Press Release
Through the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), over $1.2 trillion in federal funding is available for transportation, water, and other infrastructure projects until 2026. With funds dedicated to replace and modernize the nation's aging infrastructure, the BIL establishes new funding programs and reauthorizes existing funding programs, many of which will benefit cities like Charleston.
Clay Middleton, Mayoral Candidate for Charleston, said, “Our city has not applied for any of these resources directly. There are at least 25 competitive infrastructure funding opportunities that exist at the municipal level. Notably we can reconnect communities, provide flood mitigation assistance, and create safe streets and roads. There are also grants available for energy efficiency, conservation, and resilience. In order to position ourselves to secure BIL funding available to municipalities, we must engage in the process.”
As Mayor of Charleston, Middleton would create a City Infrastructure Coordinator position within the office. The position would not be filled by a consultant or contractor, nor buried in already overworked and understaffed departments. The dedicated position would be responsible for facilitating and prioritizing across infrastructure types, including roads, bridges, water, energy and broadband. The new position would communicate and collaborate with regional partners including Berkley, Dorchester and Charleston Council of Governments, the State Infrastructure Coordinator, and various federal and state agencies based on specific needs.
“Focused, consistent attention, and “hands-on” facilitation by a Mayor is needed. Having worked in the federal government, in both the executive and legislative branches, I have firsthand experience in facilitating and enhancing action by state and local governments, non-profits, and the private sector. I know how to secure funding for public-private partnerships that would make our communities relevant, resilient, safe, and vibrant now and for generations to come. This is our opportunity to start and accelerate needed work, not let the normal process play out.” Middleton said.
Middleton continues in stating, “The federal government has made the funding available. It is up to us to apply and deliver the important infrastructure projects that will usher us into the second half of this century and beyond. Without the right leadership, vision, experience, relationships, and work ethnic leading our city, we may find ourselves left behind in building and sustaining a Charleston prepared to advance through the 21st century. We need a work horse to get this done.”
Middleton's full statement on maximizing the BIL can be found at https://www.claymiddleton.com/
