Following historical federal investment in infrastructure development, including the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), demand for infrastructure projects in the Northeast is high. Rail, bridge, port, and energy projects are spiking, which has driven the need for more equipment, materials, and innovation.
How are states currently benefiting?
New York & New Jersey
The Gateway Tunnel, a $16 billion project administered by the Gateway Development Commission, is supported by $6.8 billion in federal funds. One of the largest infrastructure projects in US history and expected to double rail capacity in the main tunnel between NY and NJ, it is expected to dramatically benefit the entire Northeast Corridor. Increased demand for tunneling equipment, steel, energy provision, and systems integration provide an opportunity to partner with the Gateway Program.
Connecticut
Nearly $2 billion in funds are dedicated to rail modernization projects like Metro-North/New Haven Line upgrades, Devon Bridge repairs, and Walk Bridge replacement in Norwalk through 2029. Companies supplying heavy machinery, bridge materials, rail technology, and energy sector support can coordinate with contractors and state DOT.
Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut
There is multistate coordination on offshore wind procurement, targeting 6 gigawatts (GW) of capacity, enough to power a million homes and supply multiple cities with electricity. Companies providing cranes, specialized seaport machinery, transport vehicles, and electrical components can plug directly into supply chains supporting these projects by visiting each state’s energy infrastructure websites, staying up to date on project opportunities.
Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont
Smaller states are directing IIJA funds to support bridge, highway, and rural broadband projects that are smaller in scale, but shovel-ready. Road building, materials handling, and utility equipment suppliers can monitor state DOT bid lists. As enacted infrastructure investment policy and funding begin to materialize, there are several ways to monitor what may be available:
- Track bid opportunities by visiting states’ procurement websites.
- Websites like Grants.gov and the DOT IIJA dashboard also provide project availability.
- State DOTs and regional planning organizations post bid calendars to monitor weekly.
- Build partnerships with existing prime contractors and suppliers.
- Engage policymakers by inviting state legislators or DOT officials to manufacturing facilities, raising awareness of a product or facility’s efficacy and availability.
The Northeast economy is approaching a decade of infrastructure investment—from high-speed rail to offshore wind and bridge modernization. This investment is expected to significantly bolster demand for construction equipment.
To learn more about infrastructure issues in other states or to get involved in AEM’s advocacy efforts, please reach out to the AEM Advocacy Team at advocacy@aem.org.
