Municipal Assistance Program (MAP)

The Municipal Assistance Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development through the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services. The program is designed to support local governments in improving the efficiency, effectiveness, and coordination of municipal services and planning efforts. It operates under statutory authority that enables the Commonwealth to provide technical assistance, planning support, and funding to municipalities and multi-jurisdictional partnerships. The program aligns with the broader mission of fostering economic growth, strengthening communities, and ensuring responsible use of public funds. The primary purpose of the program is to fund two major categories of activities: shared services and community planning. Shared service initiatives are intended to promote collaboration among municipalities, including regionalization or consolidation of services such as public safety, public works, and code enforcement. Community planning activities include the development of comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, and implementation strategies that guide land use, economic development, and infrastructure investment. The program emphasizes partnerships, innovation, measurable results, and long-term sustainability in all funded projects. Funding under the program may be used to support feasibility studies, planning documents, shared staffing arrangements, and certain startup or expansion costs associated with cooperative service delivery. However, the program explicitly prohibits the use of funds for construction, building acquisition, general administrative costs of the grant, or lobbying-related expenses. Equipment purchases may be allowed under specific shared service conditions, particularly when tied to new or expanded intergovernmental initiatives. All proposed uses of funds must align with the approved project scope and budget narrative. A key requirement of the program is cost sharing. The Department may fund up to 50 percent of the total project cost, with the remaining share provided by the applicant. At least 25 percent of the total project cost must come from non-state sources, although exceptions may be granted in cases of financial hardship or for distressed municipalities. Both cash and in-kind contributions may be used to meet match requirements, provided they are properly documented and directly tied to approved project activities. Certain circumstances, such as municipal distress or consolidation efforts, may qualify for reduced match requirements. Eligible applicants include municipalities such as cities, boroughs, townships, and counties, as well as public or quasi-public entities acting on behalf of one or more municipalities. Shared service projects must involve at least two municipalities, while community planning projects may involve either single or multiple jurisdictions, though multi-municipal efforts are strongly encouraged. Applications must demonstrate clear need, strong partnerships, and a commitment to implementation and long-term impact. The application process is conducted through the Department’s online Single Application system, and submissions are accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants must provide a detailed project narrative, budget, and supporting documentation such as resolutions from governing bodies and letters of support. Evaluation criteria include project need, quality, financial feasibility, partnerships, and past performance. Additional emphasis is placed on innovation, cost savings, and the ability to deliver measurable improvements in service delivery or community development. There is no fixed application deadline, as proposals may be submitted at any time, subject to funding availability. Applications undergo review by the Department, and selected applicants may be asked to provide additional information. Final funding decisions are contingent on available resources. Program inquiries can be directed to the Department of Community and Economic Development, and applicants are encouraged to consult with program staff prior to submission to improve project alignment and competitiveness.

Emphasize measurable outcomes cost savings and regional collaboration; demonstrate strong partnerships and readiness to implement; align project with stated program objectives and evaluation criteria