The National Civic Art Society (NCAS) applauds the launch of the U.S. Department of Transportation's "Beautifying Transportation Infrastructure Challenge," announced today by Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. (DOT press release here.)
The competition invites Americans of all ages and backgrounds to submit infrastructure design concepts—including bridges, transit hubs, and rural transportation features—that capture the spirit and greatness of the United States, with up to $650,000 in prizes available.
DOT stated it is "seeking grounded, realistic design concepts that align with Executive Order 14344 – Making Federal Architecture Beautiful Again." That Executive Order, which NCAS helped draft, reoriented federal architecture from modernism to classical and traditional design.
Justin Shubow, President of NCAS and Chairman of the DOT's new Beautifying Transportation Infrastructure Council, appointed by Secretary Duffy, praised the Challenge as a landmark step forward. The initiative aligns with the work of the Council, which is helping shape national efforts to improve the design and aesthetic quality of American transportation infrastructure.
In an article about the Council last month, Architectural Digest reported, "There’s a new design advisory committee in Washington—and it’s primed to shake up the look of transportation infrastructure across the country."
"This Challenge is exactly what America needs," said Shubow. "For too long, our bridges, transit stations, and highways have been treated as purely utilitarian objects, stripped of the beauty and civic meaning that once made landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and original Pennsylvania Station enduring symbols of American ambition. Secretary Duffy's initiative opens the door for designers and citizens alike to reimagine what transportation infrastructure can be—functional, yes, but also beautiful, dignified, and worthy of the great nation it serves. The National Civic Art Society enthusiastically encourages architects, designers, students, and everyday Americans to participate in the challenge and make their voices heard."
The Challenge opens today, March 13, 2026, with submissions accepted through May 13, 2026. Winners will be announced in July 2026. Interested participants can learn more and submit designs at transportation.gov/beautifytransportation/challenge. A public informational webinar will be held on March 25 at 3:30 p.m. ET.
The National Civic Art Society urges all Americans who believe in beautiful, meaningful public spaces to seize this opportunity.