California approves $5B infrastructure funding package

California transportation officials have announced a massive funding boost for infrastructure projects across the state, with nearly $5 billion earmarked for everything from highway repairs to electric vehicle charging stations. The funding package, approved by state commissioners on June 27, represents one of the largest single investments in California’s transportation network in recent years. The […]

Minnesota PUC approves new energy projects in 475 MW grid strengthening effort

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved two renewable energy and battery storage projects to advance grid reliability. The Iron Pine Solar Project and the Northern Crescent Solar Project will add more than 475 megawatts (MW) of solar energy capacity to the state’s grid, according to PUC officials. The Northern Crescent Solar Project will […]

Marcie Kahbody: Agency Information Officer for California’s State Transportation Agency

Profiles in Power highlights public officials nationwide who are improving their communities through their dedication, enthusiasm, creativity and experience. This week’s profile is the Chief Information Officer for the California Department of Transportation and the Agency Information Officer for the State Transportation Agency. My public career highlights and education: Throughout my career in public service, […]

Coos Bay port secures $100M investment for new container terminal, rail improvements

Oregon approved a $100 million investment in the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) project. The public-private project will establish a container terminal in the Port of Coos Bay that will directly link ocean freight to inland markets by rail. The estimated total project cost is $2.3 billion, including the planning, design and construction of a […]

Louisville initiates AI overhaul, seeks AI proposals to improve government services

Artificial intelligence (AI) advancement and innovation is taking an increasingly leading role in municipal operations across the country. The city of Louisville, Kentucky, is the latest to take the next step in AI integration by expanding its AI leadership team and pursuing new pilot programs. After expanding its IT agency’s operating budget by $2 million, […]

California launches design phase of $2.1B coastal tunnel project

The California Transportation Commission has jumpstarted the Last Chance Grade Project into the design phase with a $40 million injection. With the design phase set to begin, construction on the $2.1 billion Del Norte County tunnel project is set to begin in 2030. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) recently selected the project’s preferred alternative, […]

Oregon invests $155M in bond funds for performing arts center renovation

Portland State University (PSU) is bringing Broadway to downtown with a $155 million, 1,200-seat performing arts center that seeks to transform the city’s cultural landscape. The university announced earlier this month it had secured $155 million in funding for the project, with $137.5 million coming from state bonds approved by the Oregon Legislature. The project […]