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Checklist • 6 min read

Program Readiness for DOT Grant Delivery

Key Takeaways

  • U.S. DOT competitive grants favor projects that are 'shovel ready'
  • Key readiness factors: completed design, procurement documents, permits, and stakeholder alignment
  • Using the official DOT Project Readiness Checklist improves grant competitiveness and speeds federal obligation of funds

Context


U.S. DOT discretionary grants (RAISE, INFRA, etc.) explicitly score projects on readiness. Applicants who demonstrate near-term construction viability are prioritized.


Checklist Highlights


  • Planning & Design: Preliminary design 35%, final design 100%
  • Advertisement Ready: Bid packages drafted, procurement plan aligned
  • Permitting Secured: NEPA, environmental, and utility clearances complete
  • Stakeholder Coordination: Municipal, utility, and community approvals aligned
  • Procurement & Contracting: Ready to execute contracts within federal timelines

    • Execution Benefits


    Teams that apply this checklist reduce delays in grant award → construction → reimbursement cycle, minimizing exposure to federal clawback of funds.


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