Trump selects $175B design for missile defense system

The Trump administration has announced an initial design for a defensive missile shield around the U.S. In a White House press conference Tuesday, President Trump selected a $175 billion design plan for the “Golden Dome” initiative, expanding upon a previous agenda item to protect American borders. While the measure will likely face backlash and funding […]

PennDOT unveils $300 million interstate expansion project

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) will spend $300 million to expand Interstate 476 and Interstate 95 by adding flex lanes, improving road conditions and enhancing drainage systems. The project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to begin in 2028. The project’s primary goal will be to reduce congestion along major travel […]

Fairfax approves $290.2M budget with focus on infrastructure

Fairfax City Council unanimously approved the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget totaling $290.2 million—a 10% increase over FY 2025—and the FY 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The General Fund budget is set at $198.6 million, a 9.9% increase, maintaining a 17.7% unassigned fund balance to support the city’s AAA bond rating. The budget includes $98.1 […]

DOE audits $15B in grants for energy, manufacturing projects

The Trump administration halted spending, loans and other actions and activities previously planned by the Department of Energy (DOE). Following the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) realignment of federal agencies, the administration has extended funding freezes to energy and manufacturing supply chain projects. This DOE freeze affected grants, loans and other activities related to clean […]

AASHTO outlines path to more efficient project funding

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) received a clear message from one of its major partners, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), a nonprofit representing departments of transportation from all 50 states, the District of Columbia (D.C.) and Puerto Rico. Of the many 10-question regulatory review submissions from stakeholders, AASHTO’s May […]

Springfield advances rail project with $157M federal boost

Springfield, Illinois, is making progress in its effort to reduce rail congestion and improve urban connectivity. In a major development for the Springfield Rail Improvements Project (SRIP), the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has fully obligated $157.1 million in federal funding for the final segment of the SRIP, ensuring that construction can continue moving forward […]

Mallory Greenham: Revitalizing Rust Belt communities with decisive leadership

Profiles in Power highlights public officials nationwide who are improving their communities through their dedication, enthusiasm, creativity and experience. This week’s profile is Chief of Staff for the City of Hamilton, Ohio, Mallory Greenham. My public career highlights and education: I’m currently the chief of staff in the City Manager’s Office here in Hamilton, Ohio, […]