Federal and state websites have been launched providing access to more specific information on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). One particular site of note is the Iowa Department of Transportation Web site that details transportation infrastructure funding programs of the federal stimulus.

While significant components of ARRA are being distributed by specific formula, the act includes some discretionary and competitive funds which are being distributed by the federal agency given oversight. The most recent examples include:

• Economic Development Administration – $150 million to create jobs and boost development in parts of the country hit hard by the recession
• Department of Transportation - $1.5 billion in discretionary grants for capital investments for state and local governments.
• Department of Labor - $5.1 million to Iowa for youth activities, including summer employment for youth.

Time is an important consideration in evaluating stimulus opportunities. A listing of statutory deadlines and key dates has been gathered by the Council of State Governments and can be found at this Web site.