NWC Federal Spotlight (December 2025)

NWC FEDERAL SPOTLIGHT (December 2025)

NWC Members,

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”
William Arthur Ward

As the year draws to a close, this season offers a natural moment to pause and reflect. Our members observe this time of year in many different ways, through holidays, family traditions, or simply a brief break from the pace of a demanding calendar. Regardless of how it is marked, this moment invites gratitude for what connects us and appreciation for the work that carries forward.

At the National Waterways Conference, that connection is grounded in water and waterways. These systems sustain communities, support commerce, reduce risk, and strengthen resilience across the country. As we close out the year, we are thankful for the engagement, collaboration, and insight our members bring to this organization, and for the shared commitment that continues to shape our policy work.

From a Congressional perspective, lawmakers have wrapped up the first half of the 119th Congress, and attention is already turning to a busy and compressed 2026 election year for the second half of the 119th. There is a significant amount of work ahead in 2026. Congress must still complete nine Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills while also beginning consideration of Fiscal Year 2027 funding. In addition, several major legislative efforts are expected to be in play, including surface transportation reauthorization, the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, and potentially State Revolving Fund legislation. These priorities will unfold alongside member retirements and an increasingly active election cycle. Additional context and analysis are provided in the Congressional Spotlight below.

On the NWC front, we have been working hard on your behalf.

• Drafting comment letters. Over the past several weeks, NWC has been actively drafting letters on a range of regulatory and policy issues, while also laying the groundwork for our Water Resources Development Act of 2026 priorities.
• Testifying on WRDA 2026. Most recently, NWC testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee on December 17, elevating overarching concerns shared across our membership on WRDA 2026. We thank our members for sending in examples and suggestions to include in the testimony.
• NWC’s policy committee. We thank our Government Affairs Committee (GAC) for their help on these efforts. Want to get involved in GAC? We meet on the first Thursday of the month at 4pm ET. Contact Julie at julie@waterways.org for the calendar invite.
• Registration open. We are also pleased to share that registration is now open for the 2026 NWC Legislative Summit. The Summit has moved from March 9 through 11, 2026 to April 20 through 22, 2026 due to the House being out of session during the March dates. This year’s Summit will include a partnership with the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, featuring a joint reception on April 20 and a full day of shared programming on April 21 focused on issues spanning navigation, ports, flood risk management, water supply, and related water resources business lines.

As we move into the final week of the year, we want to thank you for your continued commitment, engagement, and partnership. We wish you a restful holiday season and look forward to reconnecting in January as this important work continues.

Best,

Julie and the NWC Team

CONGRESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT

OVERVIEW.  U.S. Congress closed out December having resolved only a handful of legislative priorities, leaving several major issues unfinished as lawmakers adjourned for the year. The most notable accomplishment was enactment of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). However, most other legislative activity in December was dominated by efforts to avoid another government shutdown, limiting floor time for broader policy work.

Rather than completing all outstanding appropriations bills, Congress relied on temporary funding measures to keep the government operating. Nine Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills remain unfinished, including the Energy and Water Development bill, with funding extended through a Continuing Resolution that expires on January 30, 2026. While appropriations leaders have begun discussing FY26 discretionary spending targets, and some chamber leaders have publicly articulated proposed topline numbers, Congress has not yet finalized a bipartisan, bicameral spending agreement. Lawmakers instead left town with most appropriations bills unresolved and a continuing resolution in place through January 30, 2026.

These delays were compounded by growing internal divisions, particularly within the House majority. December negotiations highlighted increasingly fractious disagreements over spending levels, oversight priorities, and legislative process. These dynamics reduced leadership flexibility and contributed to the decision to defer difficult compromises rather than resolve them before adjournment, setting the stage for a challenging 2026.

December also brought additional retirement announcements and decisions not to seek reelection. These departures have near-term implications, shifting committee dynamics and altering incentives for compromise. Combined with narrow margins, this has accelerated an election year posture even before 2026 formally begins. All House seats and a portion of the Senate will be on the ballot, further shaping legislative behavior and priorities.

As Congress prepares to enter the second half of the 119th Congress, both chambers have released their 2026 legislative calendars (Senate calendar, House calendar). The House has scheduled 115 legislative days, while the Senate has scheduled 150 legislative days, with recesses planned for August and October. These limited calendars underscore the constrained window available to complete appropriations, advance major legislative initiatives, and address must pass priorities.

January will not bring a clean reset. Congress returns with unresolved FY 2026 appropriations, looming funding deadlines, and pressure to determine how remaining bills will move, whether individually, as part of a minibus package, or through a broader omnibus vehicle. Early 2026 is also expected to include consideration of major legislative efforts, including surface transportation reauthorization, the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, and potentially State Revolving Fund legislation.

At the same time, attention will begin shifting toward FY 2027. The release of the President’s budget is historically expected in February, although that timeline has slipped in recent years. Budget assumptions, oversight priorities, and policy debates unfolding in early 2026 will begin shaping the framework for the next fiscal year, reinforcing the importance of early engagement and sustained advocacy.

SHUTDOWN AVERTED (FOR TIME BEING) AND WHAT COMES NEXT

In November, President Trump signed legislation to end the government shutdown and temporarily fund federal agencies. The agreement included a short-term continuing resolution that extends funding through January 30, 2026, along with full year FY 2026 appropriations for Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Legislative Branch. The shutdown stemmed from unresolved disagreements tied in part to expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits, which are scheduled to lapse at the end of December. After a series of tense negotiations, eight Democratic Senators provided the votes needed to advance the Senate version of the CR, which was subsequently signed into law.

The CR maintains funding for the nine remaining FY 2026 appropriations bills through January 30, 2026. Significant disagreements remain over funding levels and policy riders, leaving the path forward uncertain when Congress returns in early January. Lawmakers must decide whether to finalize the remaining bills, extend the CR again, or pursue another temporary funding approach. There have been discussions about combining several appropriations bills, including Defense, Labor Health and Human Services, Transportation Housing and Urban Development, Commerce Justice Science, and Interior and Environment. However, packaging bills together requires unanimous consent, and reaching such an agreement could take considerable time.

Complicating matters further, the House and Senate will have less than 18 legislative days in session before the January 30 deadline. This creates a narrow window to complete FY 2026 appropriations before attention shifts to the FY 2027 process. If Congress is unable to finalize the remaining bills by the end of January, another full year CR remains a possibility. This outcome would have meaningful implications. Continuing resolutions rely on prior year funding levels. The FY 2025 full year continuing resolution was based on Fiscal Year 2024 funding, meaning a full year continuing resolution for FY 2026 would leave federal agencies operating on a two-year-old budget from FY 2024. With project costs continuing to rise and inflation increasing by approximately six percent over the past two years, this would further constrain agency flexibility. In addition, CRs prohibit funding adjustments, earmarks, and the initiation of new studies or construction projects, affecting both new and ongoing USACE activities.

FY2026 ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

As Congress works through the unresolved FY 2026 appropriations process, both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees have released their respective Energy and Water Development bills. While these releases provide an important preview of chamber priorities, to date, only the House has passed its bill.

On November 24, the Senate Appropriations Committee released its Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development bill, proposing total funding of $65.626 billion. The Senate proposal includes $9.79 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, $1.577 billion for the Bureau of Reclamation, and $49.57 billion for the Department of Energy. The release comes as Senate appropriators continue to assemble potential appropriations packages, though it remains unclear whether Energy and Water will move as a standalone bill, as part of a minibus, or within a broader legislative vehicle when Congress returns in January.

The House passed its Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water bill on Sept. 4, 2025 by a vote of 214-215. While overall funding levels for USACE are relatively close between the two chambers, there are notable differences across individual accounts and policy directives that will need to be resolved if and when both bills advance.

NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2026 SIGNED INTO LAW.

On December 18, 2025, President Trump signed the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act into law. The NDAA is among the most consistently bipartisan legislative measures considered by Congress, and the 2026 authorization marks the 65th consecutive year the bill has been enacted. The NDAA establishes defense policy priorities and authorizes programs for the upcoming Fiscal Year, while actual funding for those activities must still be provided through the appropriations process.

The FY 2026 NDAA authorizes approximately $900.6 billion in national defense spending, roughly $8 billion above the Administration’s original request. The House passed its version of the bill on December 10 by a vote of 312 to 112, followed by Senate passage of the final measure on December 17 by a vote of 77 to 20, sending the bills to conference to work out the differences. The final legislation spans more than 3,000 pages and includes a wide range of policy directives related to military personnel, acquisition practices, and Department of Defense operations.

Although the NDAA is enacted annually, this year’s process involved extended negotiations and several high-profile areas of debate. Among them was a proposal to impose a federal moratorium on state level artificial intelligence regulation, which was ultimately not included in the final legislation. Lawmakers also raised concerns regarding proposals affecting U.S. troop posture in Europe, with members from both parties citing potential implications for relationships with NATO allies. Despite differing views on individual provisions, the bill advanced with strong bipartisan support.

Selected NDAA Provisions of interest

The following items reflect provisions referenced in committee reports, legislative summaries, or public descriptions of the final bill. Readers are encouraged to consult the bill text and report for full detail.

• PFAS firefighting foam transition. The NDAA includes provisions addressing the Department of Defense transition away from certain PFAS containing firefighting foams, including timelines and implementation considerations.
• Department of Defense travel oversight. The legislation includes language related to Department of Defense travel practices and reporting requirements, reflecting congressional interest in increased oversight.
• Military pay and civilian workforce matters. The NDAA authorizes a four percent pay increase for service members and includes provisions addressing workforce management and protections for Department of Defense civilian employees.
• Coast Guard authorization. The NDAA includes authorization language for the U.S. Coast Guard extending FY 2027, with provisions focused on acquisition practices, transparency, and modernization.

HOUSE PERMITTING REFORM ACTION IN DECEMBER

In December, the House took steps on permitting reform by passing multiple bills aimed at streamlining federal permitting processes for energy, infrastructure, and water projects. On December 18, the House passed the Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act (SPEED Act, H.R. 4776), a bipartisan bill sponsored by Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine) that would modernize aspects of the National Environmental Policy Act to shorten environmental review timelines and limit certain judicial challenges. The bill cleared the chamber by a 221-196 vote and now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Earlier in the month, the House also approved the Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today Act (PERMIT Act, H.R. 3898), sponsored by Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.) and supported by Transportation and Infrastructure leadership. The PERMIT Act would reform aspects of the Clean Water Act permitting process to reduce redundancy and help lower costs and delays for infrastructure projects. Both H.R. 4776 and H.R. 3898 must still be passed by the Senate and signed by the President to become law.

U.S. HOUSE PASSES THREE BIPARTISAN BILLS TO ADDRESS MARINE DEBRIS, PROTECT U.S. SHIPPERS AND CONSUMERS, AND TO IMPROVE WATER QUALITY.

On December 15, the House passed three bipartisan pieces of legislation to strengthen protections for shippers and consumers in maritime commerce, address impacts of marine debris, and to strengthen water quality with the re-authorization of the National Estuary program.  Introduced by Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), the Federal Maritime Commission Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 4183), authorizes the appropriations for the Federal Maritime Commission from FY 2026 to FY 2029. The bill also includes three major changes, which include expanding the definition of a controlled carrier, refining shipping exchange registry legislation, and the establishment of a National Port Advisory Committee and a National Ocean Carrier Advisory committee.  The bill has been received by the Senate and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Additionally, the House passed H.R. 3962, Enhancing Science, Treatment, and Upkeep of America’s Resilient and Important Estuarine Systems (ESTUARIES) Act. The bill has been received by the Senate and sent to the Committee on Environment and Public Works for review.  Introduced by Rep. Shomari Figures (D-AL), the bill provides reauthorization through FY 2031 for grants that are provided under the National Estuary Program to protect and restore nationally significant estuaries.

The House also passed the bill from the Senate, S. 216, The Save Our Seas Act, introduced by Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK).  The bill reauthorizes NOAA’s Marine Debris Program through FY 2029. The bill also calls for the development of best practices when working with tribal governments.  The bill also aims to reduce marine debris without creating additional mandates.  The bill now heads to the White House to be signed into law.

LATEST ON WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT (WRDA) OF 2026 / THE DEPARTMENT OF WAR MEMO.

The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) is a biennial bill that authorizes USACE studies, projects and policies. Signed into law on Jan. 4, 2025, the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) is working to implement various WRDA 2024 provisions. Concurrently, both chambers have indicated that the WRDA 2026 process will start in early January with the opening of member-only portals to gather study, projects and policy ideas from their members for WRDA 2026. If you have an idea, now is the time to engage with both USACE and your members of Congress.

WRDA has long functioned as a collaborative process among Congress, the Administration, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and non-Federal sponsors. Early coordination and technical dialogue are important parts of ensuring that proposals submitted through the WRDA process are feasible, responsive to community needs, and consistent with statutory and programmatic requirements.

In October, the Department of War (DoW) issued internal guidance that places limits on Corps engagement with federal and state elected officials and their staff. Additional clarity may be needed to understand how this guidance applies to the early coordination and technical discussions that have traditionally supported the WRDA development process.

STATUS OF PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATIONS.

Throughout December, the President has not sent any new nominations to the Senate.  However, the Senate has made progress on existing nominations. On December 18, the Senate confirmed 97 appointees with a vote of 53-43, bringing the total number of confirmed to 417.

Of interest to NWC, December’s confirmed appointments include:

• Timothy Petty is deputy administrator at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).   As deputy administrator, Mr. Petty is responsible for overseeing NOAA fisheries and responsible for setting commercial fishing standards.
•  Stephen Carmel is the Administrator for the Maritime Commission. As Administrator for the Commission, Carmel is responsible for the oversight of commercial shipping, ports, shipbuilding, and the U.S. Merchant Marine.
•  Laura DiBella on the Federal Maritime Commission, reconfirmed for a term which expires on June 30, 2028.

Did you know that 1,340 new presidential appointments, out of over 4,000 possible positions, need Senate confirmation?

JUDICIAL SPOTLIGHT

THE EPA ASKED THE U.S. DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS TO REVERSE RULING ON STRICTER LIMITS ON PARTICULATE MATTER EMISSIONS.

On November 24, the Environmental Protection Agency filed a motion with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit seeking to vacate a February 2024 rule that revised the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5. The rule lowered the annual PM2.5 standard from 12 micrograms per cubic meter to 9 micrograms per cubic meter and was scheduled to take effect on February 7, 2026. PM2.5 refers to airborne particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller, which are commonly produced by combustion sources such as vehicles, power plants, and industrial activities and are regulated under the Clean Air Act.

The February 2024 rule was challenged in March 2024 by a coalition of 24 states, which argued that the revised standard exceeded the EPA’s authority under the Clean Air Act. In its filing with the court, the EPA stated that the rule did not undergo the full review process required by law and requested that the court vacate the regulation. The prior Administration had maintained that tightening the PM2.5 standard would produce public health benefits and reduce health related costs over time.

Although PM2.5 standards are air quality regulations, changes to the threshold may have indirect implications for ports, inland waterways, and navigation related infrastructure. More stringent standards can affect permitting timelines, conformity requirements, and compliance costs for projects located in or near areas designated as nonattainment.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SPOTLIGHT

ADMINISTRATION

FUTURE OF FEMA DRAFT REPORT LEAKED, PROMPTS CANCELLATON OF FEMA REVIEW COUNCIL MEETING.

A highly anticipated meeting on the future of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was canceled on Dec. 11 after a report on the future of the agency was leaked. The FEMA Review Council was established back in January by President Trump to review and provide recommendations on how to streamline the agency to make it more effective.  At the December meeting, the FEMA Review Council was going to present the recommendations to the public and then vote on them. While the recommendations have not been made to the public, CNN obtained a copy of the report on December 10, which includes recommendations of reducing the role of the federal agency by cutting its workforce in half.  Additionally, the report discussed FEMA name changes, increased emphasis on state, local, and tribal involvement with emergency management, a new block grant system for rapid funds disbursement, and more. As of this time, the meeting has not been rescheduled.

RECENT EXECUTIVE ORDERS, PROCLAIMATIONS, AND MEMOS

• EXECUTIVE ORDER. Ensuring a National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence. On December 11, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order creating a shift in U.S. AI policy. The order aims to establish a federal, unified AI policy instead of 50 sets of varying regulations.  The order calls for the creation of an AI task force by the Department of Justice, which will identify laws that are not in line with current administration priorities. Trump called for the executive order to help protect economic and technological superiority within the United States from outside competitors.
• PROCLAMATION. Bill of Rights Day, 2025. On December 15, 2025, President Trump issued a proclamation in honor of Bill of Rights Day in 2025. The proclamation follows the history of the Constitution, and the birth of the Bill of Rights document, which issued 10 core universal freedoms for citizens to have from the government. The administration recognizes these freedoms today as essential for maintaining life, liberty, and the pursuit to happiness within the United States. The proclamation states that the administration works to make sure that these essential liberties continue to be protected.
•  PROCLAMATION. Veteran’s Day 2025. On November 10, 2025, President Trump issued a proclamation in honor of Veteran’s Day 2025. The proclamation honors all veterans and their decision to bravely serve their country, and to make sure to give all Veterans the utmost respect they deserve for their bravery and the sacrifices made.  The proclamation discusses the benefits the administration has made towards prioritizing veterans’ care and working towards addressing homelessness for veterans, and how the President pledges to help our nation’s veterans.

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COAST GUARD

APPLICATION PERIOD OPEN. National Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Advisory Committee seeking applications. (Due January 5, 2026). The U.S. Coast Guard is looking for applications from those interested in serving on the National Commercial Fishing Advisory Committee.   The vacancies were advertised earlier in the year, but did not receive a sufficient number of applications. The Coast Guard is specifically looking for three applicants to serve as representatives of the commercial fishing industry, and one representative of manufacturers of equipment of vessels for Chapter 45 of Title 46 of the United States Code and has decided to resolicit applications for all other 18 vacancies. The agency strongly encourage applicants from the commercial fishing industry and equipment manufacturers. Those interested in applying must submit a cover letter expressing their interest and qualifications to serve as a Special Government Employee representing the general public, or as a representative in one of the other membership positions, a resume detailing relevant experience for the role, and a brief two-to-three-paragraph biography written in the third person.  Applications must be submitted via email with the subject line, “NCFSAC Vacancy Application” to CGCVC3@uscg.mil by January 5, 2025.

NOTICE. Recreational Boating Safety Projects, Programs, and Activities Funded Under Provisions of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Fiscal Year 2025. As a requirement of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Coast Guard must annually publish a detailed account of the projects, programs, and activities funded under the national recreational boating safety program.  This notice is for the funding amounts that the Coast Guard has committed, obligated, or spent as of September 30, 2025, for Fiscal Year 2025.

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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

PROPOSED RULE. Updated Definition of the “Waters of the United States.” (Comments due January 5, 2026– NWC is currently working on comments in conjunction with our Government Affairs Committee). The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency are publishing a public comment period for the proposed rule revising the regulations that define the scope of waters federally covered under the Clean Water Act (CWA). The decision comes after the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 decision in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. The proposed rule provides greater clarity and regulatory certainty, and to increase CWA program predictability and consistency by defining “waters of the United States.” Those wishing to submit comments must do so by January 5, 2025, and can submit them to https://regulations.gov under the Docket ID EPA-HQ-OW-2025-0322.  Or comments can be emails to OW-Docket@epa.gov with the Docket ID EPA-HQ-OW-2025-0322 in the subject line.

NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY. Credit Assistance Under the Water Infrastructure and Finance Innovation Act Program. (Letters due Dec. 29, 2025.) The EPA is publishing the notice of funding to look for letters of interest from prospective borrowers who need credit assistance from the EPA under the Water Infrastructure and Finance Innovation Act (WIFIA) Program. According to the notice, allowable project types are wide-ranging and include, but are not limited to, projects that: improve water quality, support compliance with drinking water standards and wastewater permit requirements, reduce stormwater runoff, modernize aging water infrastructure, address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and remove lead service lines.  The EPA estimates it could lend approximately $6.5 billion to help finance $13 billion in water infrastructure investment. Those looking to submit a letter of interest must do so by December 29, 2025, and uploaded to the EPA’s SharePoint site.  To get access to the SharePoint, please contact wifia@epa.gov to request a link.

NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY. Credit Assistance Under the State Water Infrastructure and Finance Innovation Act (WIFIA) Program. (Letters due Dec. 29, 2025.) The EPA is publishing a notice of funding for letters of interest from prospective borrowers who need credit assistance from the EPA under the State Water Infrastructure and Finance Innovation Act (SWIFIA) program. Under the notice, prospective borrowers must be “a state infrastructure financing authority to be eligible for SWIFIA credit assistance. EPA defines state infrastructure financing authority as the state entity established or designated by the governor of a state to receive a capitalization grant provided by, or otherwise carry out the requirements of, title VI of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1381 et. seq.) or section 1452 of the Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300j-12).” The EPA estimates it could lend out approximately $550 million to help finance over $1 billion in water infrastructure investment to state infrastructure financing authority borrowers. Those looking to submit a letter of interest must do so by December 29, 2025, and uploaded to the EPA’s SharePoint site.  To get access to the SharePoint, please contact wifia@epa.gov to request a link.

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

NOTICE. Five Offshore Wind projects paused.  On December 22, 2025, the Department of the Interior announced a pause to the development of five offshore wind projects currently under construction, effective immediately. The projects that have been paused include Vineyard Wind 1, Revolution Wind, Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind, Sunrise Wind, and Empire Wind 1. These projects extend off the coasts of New England, down to Virginia, and were estimated to generate electricity for 2.7 million homes.  The Department of the Interior cited that the projects posed national security risks that have been recently identified in classified reports by the Department of War. The Interior pointed to a 2024 report that stated that radar reports can be impacted, which can lead to missed targets.  However, the decision has been met with backlash, with Democratic lawmakers citing concerns over rising energy prices and threats to grid reliability and the impacts it could have on AI developments.  It has not been stated when the projects will continue, but current offshore wind companies are looking to find a solution to the issue.

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

NOTICE OF FUNDING. FY 2026 Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grants available. (Applications Feb. 24, 2026, 5pm ET). The U.S. Department of Transportation has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for fiscal year 2026 Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grants under the National Infrastructure Investments program. Applications are due by 5:00 PM Eastern Time on February 24, 2026.

BUILD grants are competitive discretionary grants that support planning and construction of surface transportation infrastructure projects with local or regional significance. Eligible projects span a wide range of transportation modes and objectives, including roadway, bridge, rail, transit, port, and intermodal facilities. Projects may also incorporate resilience, flood risk reduction, and environmental sustainability elements when they are tied to transportation infrastructure. Examples of eligible projects include port and freight facility improvements, multimodal connections, bridge replacements, roadway elevation or relocation in flood prone areas, transportation access to water supply or wastewater facilities, and infrastructure designed to improve system resilience to flooding and extreme weather. While BUILD does not fund standalone flood control or water supply projects, transportation components that support these broader objectives may be eligible. For fiscal year 2026, approximately $1.5 billion is available nationwide, with a maximum award of $25 million per project. The Department anticipates making approximately 100 awards. Eligible applicants include states, local governments, transit agencies, port authorities, and other public entities. BUILD grants have supported a diverse set of projects, including port and waterway related infrastructure, flood resilient transportation assets, and multimodal connections serving water dependent communities. As such, the program may be relevant to NWC members working across navigation, flood risk management, water supply, and integrated water resources infrastructure.

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov under funding opportunity number DTOS59-26-RA-BUILD by February 24, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time.

UPDATE.  Information about FY25 PIDP grantees and FY26 Port Infrastructure Development Grant. The U.S. Department of Transportation has not yet announced the Fiscal Year 2025 Port Infrastructure Development Program grant awards. The delay is tied to disruptions in project review timelines resulting from the recent government shutdown. While the Department has not provided a revised schedule, award announcements could take several additional weeks.

The Port Infrastructure Development Program provides competitive grants to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the nation’s ports. Eligible projects include port and terminal modernization, dock and wharf rehabilitation, freight mobility improvements, intermodal connectors, and infrastructure that enhances the movement of goods to and from ports. Grants may support planning or construction activities and are intended to strengthen supply chains and maritime freight networks. Looking ahead, the Department has not yet released a Notice of Funding Opportunity for fiscal year 2026 PIDP grants. While a funding notice could be issued by the end of December, that timing has not been confirmed. NWC will continue to monitor developments and will share additional information as it becomes available.

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FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

NOTICE. Adjustment of Public Assistance Thresholds for Floodplain Management and Wetlands Protection Review Process. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is providing notice that dollar value thresholds that provide exemption from or abbreviation of the floodplain management and wetland protection process for certain Public Assistance projects associated with disasters with an incident start date on or after October 1, 2025, will increase.  These adjustments only apply to major disasters with an incident start date on or after October 1, 2025. The FEMA regulations include three different dollar value thresholds that provide exemption or abbreviation of the eight-step floodplain management and wetlands protection process for certain FEMA projects funded through the Public Assistance program. Those looking for more information can contact Portia Ross in the Office of Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation at 202-212-5929.

PLAYBOOK. FEMA releases New Playbook for Building Code Enforcement. Earlier this year, FEMA released its new Building Codes Enforcement Playbook, which is designed to support building code officials in effectively administering and enforcing modern, hazard-resistant codes. It includes key elements such as establishing authority, ensuring trained staff, securing sustainable funding, and using permitting, inspections, violations, and appeals to support enforcement. It highlights solutions that include interagency coordination, public outreach, and the use of digital tools like online permitting, virtual inspections, and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and compliance. The playbook also emphasizes integrating building departments with broader community functions, engaging stakeholders, and using data to measure performance. It concludes with a collection of templates and tools and FEMA stating that the goal of strengthening code enforcement is to support safer and more resilient communities.

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U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

NOMINATIONS REQUEST. Looking for nominations for the Inland Waterways Users Board. (Due Jan. 9, 2026). The U.S. Army Corps is posting a notice looking for interested individuals to submit nominations to serve on the Inland Waterways Users Board The Board provides independent advice and recommendations to Congress and to the Secretary of the Army for Civil Works on matters related to inland waterways infrastructure and navigation. They are currently seeking 11 nominations that will begin on May 29, 2026.  Nominees should have experience in shipping or working with commercial carriers operating on inland or coastal waterways and should represent a range of geographic regions across the United States Nominations must be submitted no later than January 9, 2026. Submissions should be sent to the Institute for Water Resources, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ATTN: Mr. Paul D. Clouse, Designated Federal Officer (DFO) for the Inland Waterways Users Board, CEIWR-NDC, 7701 Telegraph Road, Casey Building (Room I-204), Alexandria, Virginia 22315-3868. Nomination may also be submitted by telephone at 202-768-3157; or by email at Paul.D.Clouse@usace.army.mil.