Michigan Transportation Alternatives Program

The Michigan Transportation Alternatives Program is a competitive federal grant program administered by the Michigan Department of Transportation to support infrastructure and community projects that enhance nonmotorized transportation systems. The program operates under federal transportation legislation and is designed to improve mobility, safety, and quality of life by investing in pedestrian, bicycle, and community-oriented transportation facilities. It is part of a broader federal initiative to strengthen multimodal transportation networks and provide safe alternatives to motorized travel across the state. The program is overseen by MDOT, which manages statewide funding while also coordinating with metropolitan planning organizations in larger urban areas. The primary purpose of the program is to fund projects that expand and improve active transportation infrastructure, including pedestrian safety streetscapes, regional trail systems, and bicycle and pedestrian connections to transit. Eligible activities include Safe Routes to School initiatives, preservation of historic transportation facilities, and development of trail networks that connect communities. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate strong local support, clear transportation benefits, and the ability to be completed on schedule. Funding is intended for construction-related costs, while planning, engineering, and design expenses are typically not covered and must be funded separately by the applicant. Approximately forty three million dollars is available annually through the program, with funding split between statewide distribution managed by MDOT and regional allocations administered by metropolitan planning organizations. Applicants must provide a minimum twenty percent local cash match toward project construction costs. Higher match contributions are often viewed favorably during evaluation, as they demonstrate strong local commitment and financial readiness. Grant funds are distributed through a reimbursement structure, meaning recipients must initially cover costs and are reimbursed after project expenses are incurred and approved. Eligibility for the program is broad but structured. Public Act 51 agencies such as cities, villages, county road commissions, regional transportation authorities, and transit agencies are eligible to apply directly. Other entities including nonprofits, schools, tribal governments, and state or federal agencies may participate but typically must partner with an eligible Act 51 agency. Applicants are expected to demonstrate readiness, including completion of planning activities, environmental reviews, and public engagement processes prior to submission. Projects must also comply with federal and state transportation standards and be capable of long term operation and maintenance by the applicant. The application process is conducted through the MDOT Grant System and requires submission of detailed project information, including scope, budget, schedule, and supporting documentation. Applicants are strongly encouraged to coordinate with MDOT grant coordinators early in the planning process to ensure competitiveness and completeness. The review process includes initial screening, technical review by subject matter experts, and evaluation by an application review committee. Projects are assessed based on criteria such as community support, feasibility, alignment with program goals, and readiness for construction. Application cycles typically occur three times per year for statewide funding, and decisions are made several months after submission. Successful applicants receive a conditional commitment outlining requirements that must be met before funds are formally awarded. These conditions include securing right of way, completing engineering design, obtaining environmental approvals, and confirming matching funds. Projects must adhere to strict timelines, and failure to meet milestones may result in loss of funding. Once all conditions are satisfied, the project moves into implementation under MDOT oversight. The program is recurring and continues to operate annually, reflecting ongoing federal investment in transportation alternatives. Applicants are encouraged to develop projects over multiple years to ensure readiness and competitiveness. For additional guidance, applicants may consult program documentation such as the TAP Applicant Guide and the Program Overview, which provide detailed instructions, eligibility criteria, and examples of successful projects. The program remains a key funding source for communities seeking to improve active transportation infrastructure and enhance connectivity across Michigan.

Engage community early; ensure project readiness; provide strong local match; demonstrate feasibility and timely completion likelihood