Illinois opens application period for transportation enhancement program

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Communities looking to install safe travel projects in the state of Illinois have until Nov. 2 to put in their application for state grant funding.

The Illinois Department of Transportation announced Tuesday that they will start taking applications for the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) – part of Gov. JB Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois initiative.

For the first time, the program will dedicate resources to communities disadvantaged communities in need.

“Part of our core mission at IDOT is empowering disadvantaged communities and working with local decisionmakers to improve transportation options and quality of life,” said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Under Gov. Pritzker, we have made major improvements to the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program that will mean greater participation and more resources where they are needed most.”

Eligible projects include biking and walking paths, trails, streetscaping and beautification work, and other improvements designed to encourage safe travel at the local level. Applicants can be either local governments or regional planning commissions. Nonprofit or private entities that apply must have a public sponsor.

This year’s application process will include an online map and scoring system to determine local match requirements and identify high-need communities. To make sure economically distressed and disadvantaged communities can participate, 25 percent of the $105.6 million available through the program will be set aside for those communities.

The maximum award will be $2 million. Applications must be received by Nov. 2.