The Interstate 10 widening project between the Valley and Casa Grande may face funding challenges due to a Trump Administration executive order, as U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton seeks clarification from the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Vague language in an executive order signed Trump's first day in office indicates that projects being funded by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law could be paused, as well as anything receiving funding for the bipartisan Inflation Reduction Act.
Stanton, a Democrat who represents Arizona's 4th Congressional District, has raised concerns about the potential withholding of $95 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds for the I-10 widening project. Advocates say the project, which has already commenced with the promise of funding, is crucial for improving safety and reducing congestion on the busy route.
In a letter to the acting Transportation Secretary looking for clarification on Trump's executive order, Stanton highlighted the bipartisan support for the project, which includes backing from business leaders, Tribal leaders, and commuters.
"Without clarification of what this order means, the Federal Highway Administration – which entered into an agreement with the state of Arizona – could decline to reimburse the state for costs incurred," Stanton wrote. "If that worst-case scenario happens, it would leave state governments on the hook for billions in materials and labor."
The I-10 corridor has been a significant concern for drivers and commuters, with numerous serious crashes reported over the years. The widening project was introduced to address safety issues and improve the overall commuting experience.
Sarah Standifird has made it her mission over the last two years to bring the I-10 expansion project into a reality. Her son, Andrew, and four others died in a six-car pileup on the narrow stretch of highway in January 2023.
"Really think about the safety of the people around you," Standifird said. "This is the safety of the drivers, this is the safety of a parent, a child, a mother, a father, a cousin."
The Arizona Department of Transportation tells ABC15 that the Federal Highway Administration has indicated it will "continue reimbursements and authorizing projects until further guidance is provided." But that communication still gives few details about how long funding could last and does not clarify which projects could be impacted down the line.
As of news time, Stanton had not received any information from the Department of Transportation on Trump's executive action.
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