Tucson and Pima Leaders Scramble to Understand Trump’s Funding Freeze on Roads and Bridges

Local officials are grappling with the implications of recent executive orders from President Donald Trump, particularly those halting funding for infrastructure projects passed by Congress. The uncertainty surrounding these directives has prompted a cautious stance from both the City of Tucson and Pima County officials.

One notable order, titled “Unleashing American Energy,” mandates an immediate pause on disbursement of funds linked to the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This could severely impact renewable energy initiatives and promote increased use of fossil fuels, as seen in the prohibition of federal funding for electric vehicle charging stations.

Tucson City Attorney Mike Rankin briefed the City Council about the extensive range of executive orders issued. He acknowledged that determining their effects will require time and thorough examination. Some orders may even encounter legal challenges, with the controversial directive to end birthright citizenship already facing judicial pushback.

“Evaluating the impact of these orders will take significant effort from our leadership and subject matter experts,” Rankin said during the City Council meeting.

Numerous funded projects now hang in the balance due to the funding halt. Among those projects are: $86 million for the Advanced Water Purification Demonstration Facility, $55 million for Tucson International Airport improvements, and $2.15 billion earmarked for forest health and wildfire reduction initiatives across Arizona. Additional funds include $440,000 to enhance street safety in Douglas and $4 million allocated for clean school buses.

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero remains optimistic about the legitimacy of contracts already signed with the federal government. “Contracts are binding, and we have documented obligations for the funds,” she emphasized, asserting the expectation of receiving the allocated resources.

Pima County officials are equally focused on deciphering the legal ramifications of these executive orders. County Supervisor Scott noted a consistent precedent not to utilize federal pandemic relief funds for initiatives that would require local financial support once those funds expire, save for the county’s preschool scholarship program funded through local taxes.

Notably, Pima County has decided to close its shelters for legally processed asylum seekers. Previously, those awaiting court hearings could stay temporarily in shelters while organizing travel to join family or sponsors.

However, due to a halt in releases by Border Patrol, officials report a financial strain. “This situation poses a significant financial challenge,” stated Lesher in a recent memo to supervisors, warning that operational costs would still accrue despite a lack of residents in the facilities.