AR HB1921

Establishes the Arkansas Port, Intermodal, and Waterway Development Grant Program administered by the Arkansas Waterways Commission to provide financial assistance to port and intermodal authorities for infrastructure projects.

Eligible projects include construction, improvement, rehabilitation, and expansion of public port facilities, intermodal facilities, maritime-related industrial parks, wharves, cargo handling equipment, utilities, railroads, primary access roads, and related buildings.

Program funding caps are limited to 90% of construction costs or 50% of dredging costs, with applicants required to submit applications by June 1 for consideration in the following fiscal year.

Applications must include project description, evidence of immediate need, benefits description, preliminary design, cost estimates, project area description, and any other information required by the commission.

Act becomes effective January 1, 2014, with intent to reduce highway traffic and maintenance costs while improving Arkansas's competitive position in global markets.