Search Results for keywords:"Aether Infrastructure

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has finalized a rule to implement the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, specifically its section 22425. This rule amends the Freight Car Safety Standards to enforce restrictions on new freight cars introduced in the U.S. It prohibits using sensitive technology and components originating from countries of concern or state-owned enterprises, as well as materials that infringe on U.S. intellectual property rights. From January 21, 2025, freight car manufacturers must certify compliance with these standards to operate their vehicles in the United States.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is inviting public comments on updates to its Research Infrastructure Guide (RIG). These revisions aim to improve guidelines for planning and managing infrastructure projects, focusing on aspects like construction, operations, and cyberinfrastructure. The NSF requests feedback on specific sections of the guide and outlines the estimated workload for complying with reporting requirements. Comments are needed by March 10, 2025, to be assured of consideration.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving parts of a submission from Arkansas related to the 2015 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), ensuring the state meets clean air requirements. The EPA reviewed Arkansas's plans for maintaining air quality and found them adequate in personnel, funding, and legal authority, despite some public concerns about financial resources. The approval includes updates to state regulations and confirms Arkansas's plans are consistent with federal law. Although the COVID-19 pandemic was mentioned as a possible concern, the EPA decided it does not warrant disapproval of Arkansas's submission at this time.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved the State of Washington's State Implementation Plan (SIP) submissions, ensuring they meet specific infrastructure requirements for air quality standards set in 2010 and 2015, particularly for sulfur dioxide and ozone. Despite some administrative issues and adverse public comments regarding resources and funding, the EPA found Washington's SIP compliant with necessary requirements. The rule, which does not impose additional federal requirements, will be effective on March 22, 2021. The SIP approval mainly applies to non-trust lands within specific Indian reservation areas as outlined by federal law.

The Surface Transportation Board reviewed a petition from the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition to build an 85-mile railway in Utah to connect the Uinta Basin with the national rail network. The Coalition seeks an exemption from the usual prior approval requirements, arguing that the rail line will provide critical transportation benefits and support local industries. While there is significant support, including endorsements from state officials, there is also opposition citing financial viability concerns and potential environmental impacts. The Board has made a preliminary decision on the transportation merits but will only finalize its decision after completing an environmental review.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is seeking public comments on its plan to extend the collection of information through the Visitor Request Form for another three years. This form collects data about visitors to CISA facilities to assess risks and ensure security. The deadline for submitting comments is April 19, 2021. The agency is interested in feedback on the necessity and practicality of this information collection, as well as suggestions to minimize the burden on respondents.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is planning to submit an information collection request focused on assessing the capital improvement needs for drinking water systems. This is part of the 8th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment, and the EPA is seeking public comments before moving forward. The survey will collect data to estimate the needs for maintaining and updating water systems across the U.S., with a focus on large and medium community water systems. The information collected will help determine the distribution of funds from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund to ensure safe drinking water, and respondents are encouraged to participate voluntarily.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program for fiscal year 2021. This program provides federal financial assistance to important transportation projects, focusing on enhancing highway and freight infrastructure of national or regional importance. Key objectives for project selection include promoting economic growth, addressing climate change, advancing racial equity, and encouraging innovation. The deadline for submitting applications through the Grants.gov platform is March 19, 2021.

The Coast Guard published a notice detailing its funding for recreational boating safety under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. For fiscal year 2024, the Coast Guard received $15.061 million, with specific amounts set aside for compliance and survey activities. As of September 30, 2024, none of this allocation was spent, but additional funds from past fiscal years have been used, and more money was given to states. The Coast Guard can retain some funds for future projects or reallocate them for state grants.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the modernization of the Owyhee Irrigation District (OID) in Eastern Oregon. The project aims to improve the reliability and efficiency of water delivery to local farms by updating the outdated irrigation infrastructure, which has been in use for about 90 years. This modernization will involve activities like canal lining and installation of new control systems. Public input is being sought, with comments accepted until February 18, 2025, and further public meetings scheduled for early 2025.