The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) committed $11 million in federal funds to nine Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grants.
The decision is conditional MDOT said and only reserves federal transportation funds designated by Congress for state-approved projects. TAP is a competitive grant program that funds specific transportation projects, like separated pathways, pedestrian crossings, sidewalks, bike lanes and other projects to improve vulnerable road user safety. The department said TAP projects embody the “mobility for everyone” concept.
“The TAP, including its Safe Routes to School (SRTS) category, truly delivers on MDOT’s strategic vision seeking original and innovative projects and investing in mobility options that improve Michiganders’ quality of life,” State Transportation Director Bradley C. Wieferich said. “TAP receives modest funding to address large-scale public health and safety concerns, enhance local and regional economic development and provide citizens with alternative mobility options.”
Included in the nine grants were projects for pedestrian crossings, shared use pathway lighting and sidewalk construction. Ionia County Road Department will receive nearly $350,000 for a shared-use pathway, while he cities of Tawas and East Tawas in Iosco County will receive $4.3 million for shared-use pathway and pedestrian lighting. The city of Escanaba in Delta County will receive more than $1 million for active transportation and safety improvements for two projects along the US-2/US-41/M-35 Corridor.
“The TAP grant is a truly exciting development for the City of East Tawas,” East Tawas Mayor Bruce Bolen said. “Replacing the existing deteriorated pathway will result in a wider, smoother, safer walking/biking pathway that will enable residents and visitors to better enjoy outdoor activities, while appreciating the scenic beauty of Tawas Bay.”