In recent years, the pressing issue of climate change has propelled states across the U.S. to revamp their infrastructure financing strategies to better prepare for extreme weather and environmental threats. The increasing need for climate-resilient infrastructure is expected to trigger a significant surge in municipal bond issuance over the next decade, as outlined by Pew
Politics
As the landscape of American politics shifts with the approaching Republican majority in Congress, the upcoming tax policy debate is heating up. At the forefront of this discussion is recently elected Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., who has unflinchingly characterized the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) as a “scam
Recent developments in Pinellas County highlight a growing rift between local governance and Major League Baseball’s Tampa Bay Rays. As the Rays push for a new financing agreement, tensions have escalated following the Pinellas County Commission’s decision to delay a critical vote on $312 million in bonds intended for a new stadium. The commission’s action
The nomination of Sean Duffy to lead the U.S. Department of Transportation marks a significant step in President-elect Donald Trump’s vision of revitalizing American infrastructure. Brought to light through a statement made on Trump’s Truth Social platform, this decision reflects a broader commitment to enhancing travel safety, efficiency, and innovation. Trump asserts that Duffy’s extensive
On the third anniversary of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the Biden administration has marked the occasion not just with reflection, but also with action, announcing a staggering $3.4 billion in grants. This move underscores a commitment to the ongoing revitalization of America’s infrastructure during the administration’s remaining months. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg
In a significant political showdown, the Chicago City Council has firmly rejected Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposed budget for 2025, notably turning down a contentious $300 million property tax increase. This move came as the city grappled with a daunting budget gap of approximately $982 million. The vote reflected an urgent and collective dismissal of the
The approval of Proposition U by Dallas voters has ushered in significant financial changes for the city, prompting Moody’s Investors Service to revise its credit outlook from stable to negative. This pivotal measure mandates that at least half of the city’s annual revenue increases be allocated towards public safety-related initiatives, notably to sustain and enhance
Oklahoma County is undertaking a significant venture aimed at replacing its outdated jail facilities, which have faced ongoing operational issues and criticism over health and safety standards. With a population nearing 800,000, the county’s current 13-story detention center, operational since 1991, has come under increasing scrutiny, leading county officials to pursue a modern facility that
Chicago, a city known for its iconic skyline and diverse culture, now grapples with significant financial challenges that have drawn scrutiny from rating agencies. Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA) recently placed the city’s general obligation bond rating on a Watch Downgrade status, an indication of potential deterioration in its creditworthiness. This action coincides with the
The implementation of congestion pricing in New York City—a strategy supposed to alleviate the burden of traffic and intermittently fund public transportation—is now embroiled in deep political controversy. With the shadow of Donald Trump’s presidency casting uncertainty over urban policies, city officials are grappling with funding dilemmas and the feasibility of infrastructure projects. Who bears