Ongoing supply chain issues and rising material costs continue to put pressure on project teams nationwide. In addition, as the implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues, provisions intended to maximize the use of American-made products in all federally funded infrastructure projects are even more challenging because of the uncertainty in the marketplace.

Last month, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation granted a temporary 180-day waiver for complying with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s new Buy America, Build America requirement for construction materials. However, DBIA and many other industry associations prefer a longer waiver period.

We’ve co-signed a coalition letter of more than 40 leading AEC organizations, asking for additional time beyond the 180-day extension to allow more time for DOT to assess the market.

“Before these requirements take effect, it is critical that the U.S. Department of Transportation conduct thorough analyses of domestic manufacturing capabilities, provide sufficient opportunity for public comment on draft rules, and provide adequate time for public and private entities to adjust and learn final rules. To accomplish the necessary work, the Administration should extend the 180-day BABAA waiver to ensure that, in the meantime, projects are not needlessly delayed. Rushing through this process could further drive inflation and result in significant delays to projects that will facilitate the enhanced movement of people and goods that, in turn, will help improve the nation’s constrained supply chain.”

You can read the full Buy America Extension letter here.