Transportation Alternatives Program

The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), administered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Office of Local Programs, is part of a federal initiative aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure beyond traditional motor vehicle projects. TAP provides funding to support surface transportation activities that improve access and mobility for non-drivers, foster safer communities, and advance environmental sustainability. Eligible projects under this program include the construction and design of pedestrian and bicycle facilities, infrastructure to enhance access for non-drivers including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, as well as community improvement and environmental mitigation efforts. TAP also supports safe routes to school projects, conversion of abandoned railway corridors for trails, construction of turnouts and overlooks, and initiatives that reduce vehicle-related wildlife mortality or enhance habitat connectivity. For the FFY 2026 funding cycle, the application window opens on November 17, 2025 and closes on January 19, 2026. Applicants must submit proposals through the Submittable platform. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet encourages early submission; applications submitted early may receive preliminary feedback and be eligible for resubmission before the final deadline. Users must have a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) to access the application portal. The submission process requires creating a Submittable account, and KYTC advises applicants to ensure access is shared with the responsible official within the local public agency, as accounts are linked to project management post-award. Eligibility extends to a broad range of public and nonprofit entities, including local governments, transit agencies, regional transportation authorities, natural resource and public land agencies, school districts, tribal governments, and eligible nonprofits. However, due to the administrative demands associated with federal-aid projects, all applicants are required to partner with a local government. State agencies may only participate at the request of an eligible partner. Projects selected for funding must adhere to the KYTC Local Public Agency (LPA) Guide, which outlines comprehensive requirements for project execution. A 20 percent local match is required for all TAP awards, and the KYTC Office of Local Programs will not provide additional funding for cost overruns. Applicants are encouraged to account for potential inflation, delays, and unforeseen expenses when constructing project budgets. While there is no maximum funding limit, applicants requesting large amounts may be asked to phase their projects. Requests for supplemental funding for ongoing TAP projects must also be submitted during this application cycle. Following the close of the application window, proposals will be reviewed and scored by the TAP Application Review team. Recommendations based on scores will be forwarded to Cabinet leadership and the Governor’s Office for concurrence. Notifications of award decisions will be sent through Submittable. For questions about the application or Submittable portal, applicants should contact KYTC.OLP@ky.gov or visit the Submittable Help Center.

Submit early for preliminary review; ensure accurate UEI and budget includes contingencies.