City of Douglas Awarded $23.5 Million RAISE Grant

Wednesday, June 26, 2024, Douglas, AZ - The City of Douglas has been awarded a $23.5 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant, a significant investment towards enhancing the city’s transportation infrastructure and promoting urban renewal.

The RAISE Discretionary Grant program, administered by the Department of Transportation (DOT), aims to invest in road, rail, transit, and port projects that support national objectives. Previously known as BUILD and TIGER grants, RAISE has allocated nearly $14.3 billion over fifteen rounds to projects that deliver substantial local and regional impacts. These grants are awarded through a competitive, merit-based process, allowing various public entities, including municipalities, counties, and tribal governments, to apply directly for funding.

This program allows cities like Douglas, which stand at a critical juncture, to leverage the construction of a new commercial Port of Entry (POE), expand the existing Raul H. Castro Port (RHCP), and undertake Downtown Revitalization Projects, thereby gaining even greater momentum for future economic growth. This builds confidence in our communities and opens the door for future generations to thrive.

The awarded project application, titled "Douglas Commercial Transportation Infrastructure Enhancement Project: Addressing Safety, Equity, and Connectivity," focuses on revitalizing downtown Douglas through strategic roadway improvements and comprehensive planning.

Key components of the project include:

  • Resurfacing Critical Commercial Corridors: Approximately 7.8 miles of roadway, including 10th Street, Chino Road, Pan American Avenue, 1st Street, 3rd Street, G Avenue, F Avenue, Washington Avenue, and Customs Avenue will undergo significant improvements. This will involve milling, overlay, slurry seal, seal coat applications, and pedestrian safety enhancements.

  • Complete Streets Study: A study to ensure the integration of all transportation modes, enhancing safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles.

  • Traffic and Drainage Improvements: Enhancements to roadways’ structural integrity and drainage systems to support smoother traffic flow and reduce congestion. A 2020 Street Study highlighted a significant need for repairs with an average Pavement Condition Index (PCI) of 46 out of 100 for truck routes. By redirecting commercial truck traffic to the new POE, the project will reduce congestion and improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Additionally, revitalizing downtown Douglas will foster new opportunities for retail and service industries, boosting the local economy. The project also aims to create a safer, more accessible downtown, enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

The City of Douglas is prepared to begin design and pre-construction activities once acceptance is final, with a goal to fully obligate RAISE funds by the end of 2028 and to complete construction by 2033. The project will be executed through a Design-Build contract, ensuring a streamlined process.

We extend our gratitude to the RAISE Grant Review Committee for recognizing the significance of this project and supporting our vision for a brighter future in Douglas, Arizona.


View the City of Douglas’ submission: https://engage.douglasaz.gov/19497/widgets/61953/documents/56657

View all RAISE 2024 Awards: https://www.transportation.gov/policy-initiatives/raise/raise-2024-awards

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