On November 15, 2021, President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), a once-in-a-generation investment in American infrastructure intended to make the economy more sustainable, resilient, and just.
Over the last two years, ARC has used BIL funds to launch our Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE), expand our community capacity building work through READY Appalachia, increase investments to support Appalachia’s infrastructure, and much more.
Learn about the ways ARC has advanced opportunities in the region with support from the BIL.
$88.2 Million Awarded to Multi-State Projects
ARISE aims to drive large-scale, regional economic transformation through multi-state collaborative projects. To date, $88.2 million has been awarded to 34 projects that move beyond borders to expand access to broadband, strengthen new businesses and industries, and more.
Training and Funding for Communities
READY Appalachia is ARC’s initiative to build individual, organizational and community capacity in the Appalachian Region through no-cost training and funding opportunities.
To date, training has been provided to 41 LDDs, 75 nonprofit organizations and 90 local government entities. Awards include $4 million through READY LDDs and $1.6 million through READY Nonprofits.
ARC is also making $9 million available for capacity-building projects through READY Grants to Grow.
Impactful Community Investments
Hindman, KY: Overcoming Challenges and Upgrading Water Services
Buckeye Hills Regional Council: Making Community Visions a Reality in Ohio
Southwestern Commission: Creating Space for Western North Carolina Food Entrepreneurs
Western Maryland: Elevating the Outdoors
$5.5 Million Awarded for Flood Recovery in Eastern Kentucky
Using BIL funds, ARC awarded $5.5 million to continued recovery from the devastating floods that hit Eastern Kentucky in July 2022.
Looking Ahead
Within the BIL, ARC was allocated $1 billion dollars over five years, or $200 million annually, starting in Fiscal Year 2022.
We look forward to our continued use of these funds for initiatives and projects that pave the way for a stronger Appalachian Region.