With unprecedented levels of federal funding now available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), state and local governments are asking how to best manage funding and project complexities, as they work to develop infrastructure nationwide. Collaborating with AECOM as a strategic partner can make a crucial difference in driving project success.

AECOM has a long history of collaborating with state agencies to achieve their mobility goals. It teamed up with NJDOT to rehabilitate the Pulaski Skyway, a key part of the state’s transportation system. Photo credit: AECOM

A Growing Trust

Focusing on collaborative client relationships, AECOM’s role encompasses strategic advisor and service provider. As true integrators, the company makes connections, preserves communication and takes a whole systems approach to addressing client needs. Its association with the New Jersey Department of Transportation exemplifies this partnership. Building on a culture of trust and a working relationship dating back over 50 years, AECOM helps advance mobility across the state, collaborating with the agency to deliver such projects as the Route 1 corridor improvements and design for the Pulaski Skyway. The firm’s efforts to improve transportation also encompasses collaboration with other key state agencies. AECOM is teaming up with the New Jersey Turnpike Authority on the ongoing New Jersey Turnpike Interchange 1 to 4 Capacity Enhancement Program.

As a global infrastructure consulting firm, AECOM provides services across the transportation, buildings, water, environment and energy markets. Its people – planners, designers, engineers, program managers and consultants – offer unrivaled design quality, technical excellence and innovative thinking to solve today’s most complex challenges. Combined global expertise and local knowledge enables AECOM to support clients in maximizing their infrastructure investments.

Funding at the Forefront

Securing project financing is the first step and a frequent hurdle in project delivery. The BIL and IRA provide funding streams from the federal government, although the requirements driving these opportunities are complex. Recognizing clients’ difficulties in identifying funding sources, AECOM developed Fund Navigator, a technology-driven tool that enables clients more easily find funding matches in the more than 500 BIL and IRA programs.

AECOM and the New Jersey Turnpike Authority have worked together to widen the New Jersey Turnpike, an effort that reduced congestion while improving safety and mobility across the state. Photo Credit: AECOM

Adding to the complexity are federal Justice40 equity goals, which mandate that 40 percent of infrastructure funds flow to disadvantaged communities to rectify decades of inequitable investment. Fund Navigator’s Fund Explorer and Fund Matcher modules use geospatial analytics to align projects with Justice40 targets. With this guidance, clients are securing federal funding to create thriving communities.

Advancing Infrastructure Equity

AECOM shares its clients’ beliefs that project success is measured through positive community impact. It takes pride in supporting professionals like Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, who seek to improve the neighborhoods in which we all live and work. Recognizing the important role that transit plays in offering connections and opportunities for disadvantages communities across New Jersey, Gutierrez-Scaccetti, as New Jersey Transit Chair, spearheaded the development and implementation of the first long-range plan for the agency, helping it modernize while remaining on a firm financial footing.

As a trusted partner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation AECOM has undertaken numerous projects across the state, including seismic retrofit and superstructure and pier replacement on the Newark Pompton Turnpike in Passaic County. Photo Credit: AECOM

Equity is also an essential part of AECOM’s practice, as exemplified by long-term partnerships with small, women-owned, serviced disabled veteran-owned, minority-owned and disadvantaged businesses. The company is a corporate sponsor and pledge signer of the Equity in Infrastructure Project. This pledge commits AECOM to advancing the mission to build generational wealth and reduce the racial wealth gap by creating more opportunities for historically underused businesses.

Strengthening our Profession

AECOM is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion as a means of strengthening the company and empowering staff through an inclusive workplace community. Employee resource groups create a sense of belonging, with strategic mentorships promoting ongoing dialogue.

For over 20 years, AECOM has participated in the ACE Mentor Program, providing high school students – many from disadvantages communities – with opportunities to explore the design and construction profession while also awarding scholarships. The company conducts outreach at partner universities, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions and Tribal Colleges and Universities, to ensure a diverse intake of interns and new graduates to its workforce.

Into the Future

Whether it’s improving daily commutes, providing access to clean water, transitioning to new energy sources or transforming city skylines, AECOM partners with clients to help communities thrive. Together we’re delivering a world where infrastructure creates opportunity for everyone.