The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA, Recovery Act) is now over two-and-a-half years old. Within that time frame, over $200 billion in new grants, loans, and contracts was awarded in order to spur economic growth, maintain employment, and invest in various national priorities. While the open grant opportunities have come and gone, their effects are still being felt as some of the most high profile programs continue to influence the national agenda.

Two years after the onset of the Great Recession, states are still facing monumental fiscal challenges. Brought on by an unfortunate combination of poor budgetary management skills, the worst recession in decades, and growing demand for services and entitlements, it seems most of the states are united by only one thing - red ink.

On May 9, 2011, the U.S. Department of Transportation, led by Secretary Ray LaHood, announced the reallocation of $2 billion in high-speed rail grants. The re-awarding of $2 billion came as the result of Florida rejecting initial high-speed rail funding that had been awarded under the previous governor, Gov. Charlie Crist (R-FL).