DENVER - On December 5, 2024, Governor Polis unveiled a map highlighting 33 communities across Colorado that have been awarded federal funding with support of the Office of the Governor and the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA). Since the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA or Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the Polis Administration has worked with local governments to secure federal funding for local projects that are improving transportation, enhancing wildfire resilience, modernizing water infrastructure, and more. Map with points that show the 33 communities across Colorado that have been awarded federal funding with support from the Governor's Office. 

“I am proud of Colorado’s hard work to attract federal funding that is directly benefiting our communities. With these funds, we are making historic investments in roads, bridges, clean water, wildfire mitigation and more, all while creating jobs and strengthening local economies. I look forward to continuing our work to make the most of this historic opportunity as we build a stronger Colorado,” said Gov. Polis. 

In total, the State has assisted local communities and partners in securing $101 million of the total $8.6 billion in federal funding from the IIJA and IRA awarded in Colorado. By leveraging state funds to maximize this effort, the State has seen a remarkable return of $17 in federal funding to Colorado communities for every $1 spent. 

To date, the State has provided $4.7 million in matching funds to local governments as well as grant navigation and grant writing support to help unlock $101 million in federal funds. An additional 13 communities included on the map have received assistance but are still awaiting decisions on their federal funding applications, which could result in an additional $73 million for Colorado communities. 

“DOLA’s central focus is to strengthen Colorado communities, and the state’s multi-faceted approach strengthens water infrastructure, increases access to transportation, and helps protect against natural hazards,” said Maria De Cambra, DOLA’s Executive Director. “We have been able to use Federal funding to increase resiliency and enhance livability of cities and counties across the state.” 

The State created the Local Match Program (LOMA) and the IIJA and IRA Grant Writing and Technical Assistance Program to help local governments meet the IIJA’s non-federal match requirements and access IIJA and IRA funding. To date, approximately $10 million in state funds have been allocated through LOMA to help secure federal dollars. 

Colorado also funded 13 Regional Grant Navigators (RGNs) statewide to develop a thorough understanding of the grant funding opportunities and assist local governments and Tribes in accessing funding from these historic laws. 

Local Projects Spotlights: 

Northeast Colorado Association of Local Governments :
The State provided grant writing assistance to a coalition of 17 counties and towns in Northeast Colorado to secure a highly competitive $1.2 million RAISE grant. The funding will support the development of a Long-Range Transportation Plan designed to reduce air, water and noise pollution as well as improve access to daily destinations, reduce transportation costs, and expand travel options. 

Larimer County 
With support from their Regional Grant Navigator, Larimer County received nearly $9.7 million for wildfire mitigation in the Red Feather Lakes area. This funding will help the county to protect homes and properties, improve forest and watershed health, and improve the area’s resilience to future wildfires. 

City of Pueblo 
The State provided $1.7 million in matching funds to help the City of Pueblo secure $13.7 million to replace the Union Avenue Bridge. The nearly 100-year-old bridge serves as a vital connection between downtown Pueblo and South Pueblo, and the replacement will improve safety and support the safe movement of people and goods. 

Town of Cheraw 
The State provided $789,500 in matching funds to help the Town of Cheraw receive an additional $789,500 in federal funding to install 286 smart water meters across the town and four nearby communities. This funding will allow the town to better track water use, identify leaks, and improve customer water use patterns.