Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program

The Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program is a state-funded initiative managed by the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) to promote bicycle infrastructure and connectivity across Maryland. Named in honor of Kim Lamphier, a dedicated advocate for bicycle access and safety, the program builds upon over a decade of investment and policy work that encourages cycling as a healthy, sustainable, and equitable transportation mode. Originally established in 2012, this reimbursable grant program operates on an annual funding cycle and is designed to align with other state and federal transportation efforts. The program’s overarching goal is to expand the reach and safety of Maryland’s bicycle networks by funding projects that improve access to transit, support underserved communities, and integrate with local planning priorities. Funding through the Bikeways Network Program is made available for three categories of projects: Design, Minor Retrofit, and Construction. Design grants, capped at $400,000, fund engineering and feasibility assessments of proposed bikeways up to 65% completion. Final design support is limited to projects not seeking federal or additional Bikeways construction funding. Minor Retrofit grants, with a maximum of $200,000, support low-cost enhancements to existing bike routes, including safety improvements, signage, and state-of-good-repair measures. Construction grants, which can reach up to $500,000, are intended for infrastructure projects that have reached at least 65% design completion, such as shared-use paths, cycle tracks, and bridges. Projects matched with federal TAP funds must also fulfill a 20% local match for the Bikeways portion of the project cost. Applicants must contribute at least 20% of the total project cost, either through cash, in-kind support, or third-party contributions. Matching funds may include labor hours or related project expenses and must be documented upon reimbursement. The application process opens annually in April and closes by the end of May, with letters of intent accepted from December through April to facilitate early engagement and planning support. MDOT conducts a series of workshops between January and March to help potential applicants understand program requirements and prepare submissions. Awards are announced in September, followed by kick-off meetings and grant agreement finalization in October and November. Projects are expected to commence once agreements are in place and must be completed within 2–3 years depending on the project type. Eligibility for the program includes a wide range of entities, such as Maryland local governments (including partnerships), state agencies, transit operators, metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), nonprofits, and federal public lands agencies. To qualify for funding, a proposed project must meet at least two of the six defined criteria: proximity to transit hubs, designation as a county priority, location within a Sustainable Community or BPPA, enhancement of access to Maryland Main Streets or major institutions, service to disadvantaged communities, or implementation of safety interventions such as stress level reductions or improvements on vulnerable roadway user corridors. An interactive map tool is provided to assist applicants in verifying their project’s eligibility. Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive online application that includes contact information, a Complete Streets objective statement, a detailed work plan, a cost estimate with matching fund breakdown, a project map, and any available feasibility or design documents. If the applying agency is not the right-of-way owner, a letter of support or a signed MOU is required depending on the project type. The application must also comply with a suite of design standards, including the Maryland MUTCD, AASHTO guidelines, and ADA requirements. Educational and promotional components are eligible for up to 10% or $10,000 of the total award, provided they directly relate to the funded infrastructure project. Projects awarded funding through the Bikeways Program are expected to support the development of a more inclusive, connected, and safe cycling environment throughout Maryland. The program emphasizes equity by prioritizing underserved and overburdened communities and supports sustainability goals through enhanced multimodal connectivity. MDOT’s Bikeways team provides ongoing support during project development, monitoring workplans, and reimbursing approved expenses in line with program guidelines. With the program’s recurrence and clear timeline, prospective applicants are encouraged to plan early and engage MDOT through the letter of intent process to ensure alignment with program objectives and to increase the competitiveness of their application.

Submit LOI early for MDOT feedback; match must be documented; meet 2+ eligibility criteria.