Transportation Alternatives Program - Metropolitan Planning Organization +200,000 population selected

The Illinois Department of Transportation, through the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), is offering competitive capital grants under the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP‑L) to fund non‑motorized transportation projects that advance the Northeastern Illinois Greenways and Trails Plan. Eligible applicants—including municipalities, counties, public agencies, and nonprofit organizations—must propose bicycle or pedestrian infrastructure that is featured in an adopted planning document and has completed Phase I engineering (with exemptions for hardship communities). The program provides 80 % federal reimbursement, requires a cost‑share, and disallows indirect costs. • Funding range per award: $1 M – $20 M (total program funding $44.3 M) • Anticipated 5 awards for projects in MPOs with >200 K population • Application window: 10/19/2026 – 12/18/2026 (5 PM CST) • Technical assistance session offered (optional) on 11/02/2026 – 1 PM (Zoom) • Eligible project types: multi‑use trails, trail bridges/underpasses, on‑street bike facilities • Cost‑share required (≈20 %); no indirect costs allowed; federal‑aid reimbursement at 80 % • Submission must include proof of inclusion in an adopted plan and Phase I engineering documentation • Questions due by 12/17/2026; contact: Adam Gabany (email above)