Neighborhoods Cut Off by Highways to Get First Spending Program

The Biden administration is rolling out its first dedicated spending program aimed at reconnecting neighborhoods that have been split by highways.

The Transportation Department debuted the competitive grant program Thursday, which will send out $195 million this year and accept applications until October. The department said preference for the money will be given to “economically disadvantaged communities.”

The administration has prioritized equity initiatives through its transportation spending, touting this program as a key part of its racial justice efforts. More than 475,000 US households, often communities of color, were displaced due to federal highway construction, according to previous ...