- OUTSIDE SOURCES - Outside funding sources are generally administered by organizations, grants or other revenue streams outside of state, local or federal transportation funding revenue streams.
- STATE SOURCES - State-level funding sources are generally administered by Departments of Transportation, state transportation programs, Offices of Traffic Saftey or other state agencies.
- LOCAL SOURCES - Local funding sources are generally administered by Metropolitan Planning Organizations, Congestion Management Agencies, Transportation Improvement Authorities, or other regional agencies. Counties or cities may administer some funding sources. These funding sources are supported by federal, state, or local revenue streams.
- FEDERALLY- ADMINISTERED FUNDING - Federal funding sources are generally administered by federal agencies, authorities or federal revenue streams.
- CONCEPTUAL APPROACHES TO FUNDING
The AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to fund quick-action projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages. Applications are accepted for projects to improve public spaces, housing, transportation, civic engagement, coronavirus recovery, diversity and inclusion, and more. To be eligible for the program, you must be a 501(C)(3), 501(C)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonprofit, a government entity, or another type of organization which will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Although communities that belong to the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities are encouraged to apply, projects that benefit any community and satisfy all other criteria are eligible for consideration. More information can be found here. Applications are due for the 2022 cycle by Tuesday, March 22. |
America Walks 2021 Community Change Grant America Walks and generous Active People, Health Nations partners are excited to announce another round of their popular Community Change Grant program. This program will award grantees $1,500 in community stipends for projects related to creating healthy, active, and engaged places to live, work and play. The goal for this year’s grant awards is to knit together seemingly disparate threads too often considered in isolation, including, but not limited to: racism and the public sphere; climate and environmental justice; access and inclusion; walking and moving as a mechanism for bringing about political change; and how COVID-19, the need for economic recovery and a growing awakening around racial injustice might alter the landscape of our work. The program aim is for proposed projects to have a particular focus on engaging in key issues of the day with new perspectives and diverse partners/ audiences while highlighting the vital role that walking and transportation patterns can play in a new era. Applications on September 30, 2021. Stay tuned for future funding opportunity details. |
National Center for Mobility Mangagement: Community Mobility Ready-to-Launch Grants 2021 The National Center for Mobility Management's (NCMM) Community Mobility Ready-to-Launch Grants program provides grants up to $75,000 to non-profits or government agencies to fund the pilot phase of an already designed solution to allow low-income community members to become more fully engaged in economic opportunities, improve their health and well-being, and/or become more integrated into their community. The Ready-to-Launch grants are supported with funding from the Federal Transit Administration and open to any non-profit or government agency that is able to receive, or be a subrecipient of, federal funding. Applications closed on October 15, 2021. Stay tuned for future funding opportunity details. |
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Road to Zero Community Traffic Safety Grants The Road to Zero Coalition, founded in 2016 as a partnership between the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Safety Council, has launched the 2022 Road to Zero Community Traffic Safety Grants. The program focuses on innovative and promising approaches for implementing evidence-based countermeasures, supporting a Safe System Approach, and performing necessary research to address traffic fatalities and improve traffic safety. Applicants must be a Road to Zero Coalition Member (easy to join for free here) and proposed projects should have measurable objectives and generalizable results. Applications closed on January 7, 2022. Stay tuned for future funding opportunity details. |
Smart Growth America: Arts & Transportation Rapid Response In response to COVID-19, Smart Growth America has launched the Arts & Transportation Rapid Response, a new opportunity for cities looking to creatively and quickly address pandemic-related transportation challenges. Transportation agencies seeking creative expertise in their COVID-19 transportation response are invited to apply. Applications closed on May 26, 2020. Stay tuned for future funding opportunity details. |
Safe Routes to Parks Activating Communities The Safe Routes Partnership invites communities and organizations working to improve safe, equitable access to local parks to apply for the 2021 Safe Routes to Parks Activating Communities program. The program provides tailored technical assistance, along with a $12,500 award for seven nonprofit organizations to develop and initiate action plans to increase safe and equitable access to parks and green space in their communities. The program is supported by generous funding from The JPB Foundation. Applications for 2021 closed in December 2020, stay tuned for the upcoming 2022 cycle and opportunity details. |
Streets for Kids Leadership Accelerator The Global Designing Cities Initiative (GDCI) has opened applications for the Streets for Kids Leadership Accelerator professional development program. Program participants are eligible for project implementation grants of up to $20,000 to support local projects. The Accelerator encourages applications from teams of three people from the same city, that represent an interdisciplinary group of government departments and other organizations. Deadline extended! Applications will be open until Friday, March 18, 2022 at 23:59 ET. Learn more about the program and how to apply. |
Transportation For America: Smart Cities Collaborative Year Three Transportation for America (T4A) launched the Smart Cities Collaborative to build a forum for collaboration and provide direct technical assistance to a number of leading-edge cities advancing smart mobility policies and projects. The Smart Cities Collaborative Year Three grant provides technical assistance to three cities interested in learning about improving curb management strategies to bolster broader regional goals, make the transportation system operate more efficiently, and serve the community more equitably. Applications closed October 20, 2019. Stay tuned for future funding opportunity details. |
STATE SOURCES |
The Active Transportation Program (ATP) consists of federal and state transportation programs including the Bicycle Transportation Program (BTA), Safe Routes to School (SR2S), and Transportation Alternatives Programs (TAP). The purpose of ATP is to encourage increased modes of active transportation such as walking and biking. Learn more about the program in the ATP Fact Sheet. The Cycle 6 Call for Projects is expected to launch in 2022. Applications for Cycle 6 are now open until June 15, 2022. You can find out more on how to apply, project guidelines, and how applications are graded here. NEW! Due to the oversubscription to the ATP, the California Transportation Commission and Caltrans have developed a list of additional programs that fund active transportation projects and elements to serve as a resource for cities, counties, and agencies looking to fund valuable active transportation projects in their communities. |
The California Conservation Corps (CCC) is a public service program that occasionally provides assistance on construction projects. The CCC administers several programs and grants to conserve, restore and enhance California’s natural resources. Projects can include watershed protection, wildland fire prevention and non-motorized transportation improvements. Learn more about funding opportunities for your project. |
The California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) Environmental Justice (EJ) Small Grants Program offers funding opportunities authorized by California Code of Regulations Title 27, Division 1, Chapter 3, Article 1 to assist eligible non-profit community organizations and federally-recognized Tribal governments address environmental justice issues in areas disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and hazards. The EJ Small Grants are awarded on a competitive basis. Sample projects include improving community resilience through activities like Increasing access to ride-sharing and safe biking and walking routes. The 2021 Application Period closed in August 2021. Stay tuned for future funding opportunities. |
California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) grants are supported by Federal funding under the National Highway Safety Act and SAFETEA-LU. In California, the grants are administered by the Office of Traffic Safety. Grants are used to establish new traffic safety programs, expand ongoing programs or address deficiencies in current programs. Pedestrian and bicycle safety is included in the list of traffic safety priority areas. Eligible grantees are governmental agencies, state colleges, state universities, local city and county government agencies, school districts, fire departments, and public emergency services providers. Grant funding cannot replace existing program expenditures, nor can traffic safety funds be used for program maintenance, research, rehabilitation, or construction. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis, and priority is given to agencies with the greatest need. Evaluation criteria to assess need include potential traffic safety impact, collision statistics and rankings, seriousness of problems, and performance on previous OTS grants. FFY 2023 applications closed January 31, 2022. Stay tuned for future funding opportunities. For more information about the program, eligibility criteria, and application instructions, visit the grants webpage or view the 2023 OTS Application Outreach Workshop Presentation. |
Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants: Caltrans has announced the FY 2022-23 Sustainable Transportation Grant Application Guide and Call-for-Applications. These grants include:
Please visit the Office of Regional Planning to obtain the FY 2022-23 Grant Application Guide, application forms, and required templates. Applications closed on October 27, 2021. Stay tuned for future funding opportunities. |
The Funding Wizard is a searchable database to locate funding across state and federal agencies for reducing the impacts of climate change and supporting sustainable communities. |
Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Program provides grant opportunities for projects that indirectly mitigate environmental impacts of new transportation facilities. Projects should fall into one of the following three categories: urban forestry, resource lands, or mitigation projects beyond the scope of the lead agency. Funds are available for land acquisition and construction. The local Caltrans District must support the project. The 2022 EEM application process is anticipated to open in April 2022 with technical assistance workshops to be scheduled for late April to early May. You can learn more at the program's website. |
Caltrans Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP). The Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST) was signed into law on December 4, 2015. Under FAST, the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), codified as Section 148 of Title 23, United States Code (23 U.S.C §148), is a core federal-aid program to States for the purpose of achieving a significant reduction in fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads. The Division of Local Assistance (DLA) manages California's local agency share of HSIP funds. California's Local HSIP focuses on infrastructure projects with nationally recognized crash reduction factors (CRFs). Local HSIP projects must be identified on the basis of crash experience, crash potential, crash rate, or other data-supported means. Currently there are three different funding programs:
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Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federally funded program, run through the National Park Service that provides grants for planning and acquiring outdoor recreation areas and facilities, including trails. 2022 applications closed on February 1. Stay tuned for future funding opportunities. |
The Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act allows any county, city, special district, school district, or joint powers of authority to establish a Community Facility Districts (CFD) for the purpose of selling tax-exempt bonds to fund public improvements within that district. |
The National Safety Council's Road to Zero Coalition has now closed applications for the 2019 Safe System Innovation Grants. Grants are open to organizations with innovative approaches to making roadways safer and eliminating preventable roadway deaths. Applicants must clearly explain how their programs will reduce motor-vehicle crashes, set a time frame for the reduction, outline how the program will be evaluated and detail how the organization intends to reach its target audience, among other elements. Stay tuned for future funding opportunity details. |
State Highway Operations & Protection Program (SHOPP) is a Caltrans funding source with the purpose of maintaining and preserving the investment in the State Highway System and supporting infrastructure. The 2020 State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) will fund the repair and preservation, emergency repairs, safety improvements, and some highway operational improvements on the State Highway System (SHS). SHOPP projects also provide opportunities to address other vital State priorities such as the implementation of Complete Streets elements such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. The most recent SHOPP Guidelines were adopted June 24, 2020. View the 2020 State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) (May 13, 2020). |
State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP): The STIP is a multi-year capital improvement program of transportation projects on and off the State Highway System, funded with revenues from the Transportation Investment Fund and other funding sources. STIP programming generally occurs every two years. The programming cycle begins with the release of a proposed fund estimate in July of odd-numbered years, followed by California Transportation Commission (CTC) adoption of the fund estimate in August (odd years). The fund estimate serves to identify the amount of new funds available for the programming of transportation projects. Once the fund estimate is adopted, Caltrans and the regional planning agencies prepare transportation improvement plans for submittal by December 15th (odd years). Caltrans prepare the Interregional Transportation Improvement Plan (ITIP) and regional agencies prepare Regional Transportation Improvement Plans (RTIPs). Public hearings are held in January (even years) in both northern and southern California. The STIP is adopted by the CTC by April (even years). The current adopted 2020 STIP Guidelines (adopted March 25, 2020), project forms and fund estimate information is available here. |
Wildlife Conservation Board Public Access Program provides grants to public agencies and non-profit groups and organizations in California. The focus of the Board’s grant funding program is the acquisition of lands or improvements that preserve wildlife habitat or provide recreational access for hunting, fishing, or other wildlife-oriented activities. Projects eligible for funding include interpretive trails, river access, and trailhead parking areas. The State of California must have a proprietary interest in the project. Local agencies are generally responsible for the planning and engineering phases of each project. The 2021 Proposal Solicitation Notice process closed on June 29, 2021. The next PSN process is expected to be launch in summer 2022. |
AARP Community Challenge supplies small grants to nonprofits, government agencies and other groups intending to improve housing, transportation, smart cities and other community elements in short-term, community-based projects. Projects can encourage healthy, safe, inclusive communities by reimagining streets for pedestrians, wheelchair users, cyclists, transit-riders and motorists of all ages and abilities. Applications are due for the 2022 cycle by Tuesday, March 22. |
The FTA 5310 Program aims to improve mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities by removing barriers to transportation services and expanding the transportation mobility options available. The FTA 5310 Program provides grant funds for:
The Call for Projects for the FTA 5310 are now open for 2022. You can learn more at the project page. |
LOCAL SOURCES |
Built Environment Policy Advocacy Fund (BEPAF) Program. With funding from First 5 LA and The Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation, Prevention Institute supports a cohort of six community-based organizations, policy advocacy networks, and coalitions working to improve neighborhood conditions for children 0-5 and their families in Los Angeles County. In Year 2 of the BEPAF program (June 2021 – May 2022), Prevention Institute provides grant funding and technical assistance to the grantee cohort. This is a unique opportunity to improve the built environment, with a goal of promoting healthy early childhood development. Grantees will participate in a kickoff convening, learning sessions, and a closing convening; grantees will also receive site visits and tailored technical assistance. Grantees will participate in a program evaluation led by Ersoylu Consulting. Current application period closed. Stay tuned for future funding opportunities. |
Clif Bar Family Foundation has a Small Grants Program that provides funds for general organizational support as well as funding for specific projects. Applications are reviewed three times a year; the deadlines are the 1st of February, June, and October. Grants awarded during a particular cycle will be announced at the beginning of the following cycle.Priority is given to applicants that address their funding priorities from a holistic perspective: Protect Earth's beauty and bounty; Create a robust, healthy food system; Increase opportunities for outdoor activity; Reduce environmental health hazards, and build stronger communities. The next small grants deadline is June 1, 2022. |
Community Development Block Grants fund projects and programs that develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income. Federal Community Development Block Grant Grantees may use CDBG funds for activities that include (but are not limited to) acquiring real property; building public facilities and improvements, such as streets, sidewalks, and recreational facilities; and planning and administrative expenses, such as costs related to developing a consolidated plan and managing CDBG funds. The state makes funds available to eligible agencies (cities and counties) through a variety of different grant types. Grantees enter into a contract with the state. |
Fresno Council of Governments: Fresno Council of Governments (Fresno COG) and the Fresno County Transportation Authority (FCTA) fund projects of regional significance in the areas of research, development, demonstration, and deployment that will advance public transit and transportation. This program is funded by Measure “C”, Fresno County’s ½ cent transportation sales tax. Up to $5.4 million is available through the third cycle of the Measure “C” New Technology Reserve Program. The deadline to submit proposals was July 22, 2020. Learn more about the 2020 Measure C New Technology Reserve Grant Program Application. |
Los Angeles:
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Oakland: Paint theTown was established to provide residents the opportunity to engage with their neighbors, friends, and community organizations to create murals directly on their neighborhood streets. This program is run in partnership between the Oakland Department of Transportation, Eastside Arts Alliance, and Safe Passages. There are no fees associated with the application process and support is available for community groups based on financial need and funding availability. Murals by community groups in historically underserved neighborhoods will receive the highest priority for funding. Those interested in applying are encouraged to view the guidelines and submit an application. |
Regional Surface Transportation Program (RSTP) was established by California State Statute utilizing Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBGP) funds that are identified in Section 133 of Title 23 of the UnitedStates Code. This program promotes flexibility in State and local transportation decisions and provides flexible funding to best address State and local transportation needs. |
San Diego: San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) Board of Directors allocates federal funds through several grant programs. Projects generally indirectly or directly enhance San Diego's quality of life. Grants are available for a variety of projects including infrastructure safety and improvement, habitat management, and specialized transportation services for senior and disabled populations. There are currently three active grant programs: Smart Growth Incentive and Active Transportation, TransNet Environmental Mitigation, and Specialized Transportation. |
San Francisco Bay Area: Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) is the transportation planning, financing, and coordinating agency for the nine Bay Area counties.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) provides funding for Bay Area municipalities, government agencies, and public educational institutions. The Air District provides funding to public agencies for trip reduction, bike parking and bike-way expansion, and clean air vehicle projects.
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San Joaquin Council of Governments (SJCOG) 2021 Regional ATP Call for Projects: The 2021 Regional Active Transportation Program includes approximately $18.35 million of various state, local, and federal funding sources. Learn more about the regional call projects, funding sources for these projects, project resources, and schedule for submittal here. The 2021 Regional Active Transportation Program (ATP) closed in March 2021. Stay tuned for future funding opportunities. |
San Mateo County:
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Sonoma County: Under Measure M, four percent of its sales tax revenue to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Projects Program. The overall goal of these construction projects is to increase overall safety, and provide safe routes to school and to transit. |
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG):
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Federally-Administered Funding |
U.S. Department of Transportation:
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US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awards more than $4 billion in grant funding to a plethora of local, regional, and state projects. In addition to EPA's Office if Sustainable Community, the federal agency is committed to developing smart growth strategies that help communities expand economic opportunity and infrastructure, while protecting human health and the environment.
Other federal funding opportunities:
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The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) allocates funds to states to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. Examples of trail uses include hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, equestrian use, and other non-motorized and motorized uses. The State Department of Parks and Recreation administers RTP funds in California. A minimum 12 percent of local match is required. RTP projects must be ADA-compliant and may be used for:
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The Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program is a National Parks Service program that provides technical assistance via direct staff involvement, to establish and restore greenways, rivers, trails, watersheds and open space. It provides only for planning assistance—there are no implementation monies available. Projects are prioritized for assistance based upon criteria that include conserving significant community resources, fostering cooperation between agencies, serving a large number of users, encouraging public involvement in planning and implementation and focusing on lasting accomplishments. |