Through the ARRA, an unprecedented volume of resources will be dispensed. The variety of government levels, agencies, and programs through which funds will be channeled, and the range of economic need throughout the country all represent the exceptional challenge of allocating the Recovery Act money. These precious resources must be clearly useful, have impact, and demonstrate to the public that government action can result in public good. To build public trust and community level ownership, steps must be taken to ensure transparent and accountable allocation of the Recovery Act’s resources. To be effective, the investments must be targeted and clearly address structural equity issues.