A panel of local, state, and federal experts shared valuable insights to make the most of an unprecedented investment in infrastructure, including tips for navigating the process ahead, developing and communicating local priorities, funding opportunities, critical timelines, and more.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is an unprecedented investment in the nation’s infrastructure, including all modes of transportation, water, power, broadband, cybersecurity, energy, environmental remediation, resilience, and more. With Maryland set to receive billions over the next five years, close coordination with state, federal, and private sector partners is fundamental for successfully delivering these programs.
At this year’s MACo Summer Conference, Comcast sponsored an expert panel discussion that charted the path for county leaders to unlock the benefits from these historical investments and deliver on essential projects underpinning our economic success and enhancing the quality of life across Maryland.
Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson led the conversation and moderated an informative Q&A at the “Foundation of the Future — Infrastructure, Large and Small” general session. US Senator Chris Van Hollen opened the session, remarking on what the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law means for the State of Maryland, county governments, and shared constituents.
Panel speakers included:
- Allison Mayer, Deputy Chief of Staff and Infrastructure Director, Maryland Office of the Governor
- Mark Ritacco, Chief Gov’t Affairs Officer, National Association of Counties (NACo)
- Chris Trumbauer, Budget Officer/Senior Advisor, Anne Arundel County
Mark Ritacco discussed the nuts and bolts of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. He detailed the plethora of resources NACo has available for counties to navigate the complexities of federal funding programs.
Allison Mayer talked about her role as chair of the Governor’s Infrastructure Subcabinet, described the process for allocating federal funds to projects across the state, and explained what counties should be doing now to make the most of this unprecedented investment. Mayer also explained how counties could secure additional funds through competitive grants.
Chris Trumbauer explained how Anne Arundel County is leveraging its capital budget process to make the most of federal infrastructure funds. He also detailed best practices for securing Congressional earmark funding and provided examples of exciting projects Anne Arundel plans to complete with federal infrastructure funds.
The session was on August 18, 2022, at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland.
Learn more about MACo’s Summer Conference:
