Tucson Standard

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced $95 million in funding for the widening of Interstate 10 (I-10), thanks to the efforts of Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06). The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will receive the funds through the Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant (MPDG) under the DOT.

Congressman Ciscomani and his colleagues in the Arizona congressional delegation had been advocating for this funding. In a letter sent to Secretary Buttigieg in August, they emphasized the importance of the ADOT's application for MPDG funding, which aligns with the funds that will now be allocated to the project.

"The I-10 is a critical artery between Tucson and the rest of the state, serving as vital infrastructure for commercial, recreational, and freight activity alike," said Congressman Ciscomani. "These funds will be transformational for this major corridor for our state and region – facilitating international trade and commerce, tourism, and more. This grant funding will allow for the critical widening needed on one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in Arizona. While it is overdue, I am pleased to see DOT recognize the importance of the project nationally and allocate the necessary resources. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate to bring federal dollars back home to our district and state."

Ciscomani has been a longtime advocate for additional funding for the I-10. In April, he questioned DOT Secretary Buttigieg during a hearing, asking why the I-10 had not previously received funding through the agency. He also successfully included a provision in the annual House Appropriations Committee's Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) package, directing the DOT to prioritize highways in the intermountain west, which includes the I-10.

In January, shortly after being sworn into office, Ciscomani met with local stakeholders in Casa Grande to discuss the I-10 expansion and the much-needed funding.

The funding secured by Congressman Ciscomani is a significant step towards improving the safety and efficiency of the I-10. The widening of this critical highway will not only benefit the residents of Arizona but also enhance interstate commerce and trade. With the allocation of $95 million, the DOT has recognized the importance of this project and its potential impact on the region.

The I-10 expansion project is eagerly anticipated by both the local community and the state as a whole. It will address the long-standing concerns about the dangerous stretch of highway and pave the way for improved transportation infrastructure in Arizona.

As the project moves forward, Congressman Ciscomani remains committed to advocating for federal funding to support his district and state. The allocation of $95 million for the I-10 widening is a significant accomplishment, and Ciscomani's efforts in securing this funding will undoubtedly bring about positive changes for Arizona's transportation network.