Following on the success of the U.S. Department of Transportation's (U.S. DOT) TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) Discretionary Grant Program, Secretary Ray LaHood announced the availability of $600 million in TIGER II grants for capital investment in surface transportation projects.

TIGER II grants will be awarded on a competitive basis to projects that have a significant impact on the nation, a region or metropolitan area and can create jobs.

"The enormous number of applications we received for the first round of TIGER grants shows that we have a backlog of worthwhile transportation projects waiting for funding," said LaHood. "This money will go to the kinds of projects that will help spur lasting economic growth, reduce gridlock, provide safe, affordable and environmentally sustainable transportation choices and create jobs."

In an overwhelming show of demand for TIGER I, the U.S. DOT received more than 1,400 applications from all 50 states, territories and the District of Columbia requesting funding for almost $60 billion worth of projects - 40 times the $1.5 billion available under the program.

The TIGER II solicitation now available on the Federal Register Website provides clear criteria for the department to make merit-based decisions on the new discretionary program.

Primary selection criteria include contributing to the long-term economic competitiveness of the nation, improving the condition of existing transportation facilities and systems, improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving the safety of U.S. transportation facilities, and improving the quality of living and working environments of communities through increased transportation choices and connections.

The U.S. DOT will also give priority to projects that are expected to quickly create and preserve jobs and stimulate rapid increases in economic activity.

Pre-applications are due on July 16 and applications are due on August 23 from state and local governments, including U.S. territories, tribal governments, transit agencies, port authorities and others.