The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has granted the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) $27 million to conduct research on incorporating low-carbon materials into highway construction.
The Inflation Reduction Act’s Low-Carbon Transportation Materials Program includes an initiative that focuses on developing environmentally sustainable solutions for future highway improvement projects.
ADOT intends to utilize the funding to establish an extensive research program that centers on the incorporation of qualifying low-carbon pavement materials, including recycled asphalt and concrete, into roadwork. In the coming years, the department will identify and assess potential projects that could reap the advantages of these materials.
The FHWA’s decision to grant ADOT reflects the state’s continuous dedication to environmentally friendly transportation infrastructure. ADOT has made significant strides in recent years by implementing sustainable practices, including the use of reclaimed asphalt and recycled concrete pavement in various highway projects.
The new study will bring together ADOT, FHWA, professionals from the construction industry, and universities in a collaborative effort.
To ensure effective research and successful implementation of the low-carbon materials program, a steering committee will be established. This committee will be responsible for overseeing the progress of the research and providing guidance throughout the implementation process.
Beginning in 2025, federal grant funding will be made available, allowing Arizona to take the lead in sustainable transportation practices. ADOT’s initiatives will play a significant role in the overall objective of reducing the carbon footprint associated with infrastructure projects throughout the nation.