Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has allocated $700,000 for infrastructure upgrades in rural and Tribal communities. The funding, provided through the Greater Arizona Development Authority, will be used for the improvement of libraries, roads, and water systems. "This funding will bring the Arizona Promise to life for communities across the state," Governor Hobbs said, as reported by the Office of the Arizona Governor.
The Greater Arizona Development Authority is offering up to $100,000 in technical assistance funds to help cover costs for engineering plans, feasibility studies, and architectural drawings for infrastructure projects. Towns and Tribes can repay these expenses through Greater Arizona Development Authority’s low-interest financial assistance program. Applications must be completed by 5 pm on March 15. Past Greater Arizona Development Authority-funded projects include a $19.9 million library and recreational facility in Cottonwood and a $58 million wastewater expansion in Lake Havasu. Mayor Mila Besich of the Town of Superior stated, "the design and engineering expenses can add up quickly. Technical assistance funds from the Greater Arizona Development Authority will make a difference to the timelines of major projects," as stated by the Office of the Arizona Governor.
Maria Dadgar, MBA, Executive Director of the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, discussed the challenges Tribes face in accessing capital for infrastructure development. "With economic conditions varying across Arizona’s 22 Tribes, the Greater Arizona Development Authority can serve as a crucial partner in supporting infrastructure projects that strengthen tribal economies and enhance community well-being," she said. Since 1997, Greater Arizona Development Authority has supported 84 projects with over $574 million in bonds, improving emergency services and developing venues that benefit communities. For more information on the program and application process, Governor Hobbs' office encourages visiting their website, according to the Office of the Arizona Governor.
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