Automated Red Light Enforcement Transportation Enhancements Grant Program

The Automated Red Light Enforcement Transportation Enhancements Grant Program is a state-administered funding initiative operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Established in 2010 under provisions of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, the program is funded through net revenues generated from automated red light enforcement and automated speed enforcement systems. These funds are reinvested into transportation safety improvements, with the overarching goal of reducing crashes, improving mobility, and enhancing roadway safety across Pennsylvania communities. The program is designed to support relatively low-cost, high-impact transportation projects that improve safety conditions for the traveling public. Eligible projects include a wide range of transportation enhancements such as traffic signal upgrades, roadway improvements at signalized intersections, school zone safety upgrades, guiderail installations, and other roadside safety measures. Projects identified through safety programs such as Local Safe Roads Communities and Walkable Communities are also considered eligible. The program places a strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making, prioritizing projects based on PennDOT’s Safety Network Screening methods and Crash Modification Factors that demonstrate measurable safety benefits. Funding availability varies annually depending on revenue collected from enforcement systems, with total program funding historically ranging between approximately 3 million and 18 million dollars per year. There is no mandatory local match requirement for applicants; however, cost-sharing is encouraged and may improve an application’s competitiveness. Applicants must ensure that any matching or partner funds are secured and available at the time of submission. The number of applications per sponsor is not limited, and multi-municipal applications are encouraged, with priority given to collaborative efforts that demonstrate broader regional impact. Eligible applicants include a defined set of public-sector entities such as local governments, metropolitan and rural planning organizations, county planning organizations, and Commonwealth agencies. Applications must be submitted by a sponsoring entity that meets statutory definitions, and in the case of multi-municipal projects, a lead agency must be designated with appropriate authorizations from participating jurisdictions. The program requires applicants to demonstrate project readiness, including detailed cost estimates, project location mapping, and a clear implementation schedule. The application process includes a required pre-application step in the form of a scoping form, which must be completed and submitted via email prior to the full application. Applicants are encouraged to submit this scoping form early to receive feedback before final submission. The completed and reviewed scoping form must then be included as an attachment in the formal application. Additional required materials include a detailed cost estimate and a project location map. Final applications must be submitted electronically through the Commonwealth’s Single Application for Assistance portal. Applications are evaluated by a selection committee based on criteria including project safety benefits, cost effectiveness, applicant track record, maintenance and operations capacity, and prior funding history. Projects that demonstrate significant improvements in safety, mobility, congestion reduction, and environmental benefits are scored more favorably. The review process is competitive, and award decisions are typically announced in January following the application cycle. Selected projects must enter into a reimbursement agreement before initiating work and must be completed within three years of agreement execution. The program operates on an annual cycle, with applications typically accepted during the month of June each year. For the 2026 cycle, applications are open from June 1 through June 30. Applicants who submit scoping forms by April 30 may receive feedback by late May, providing an opportunity to strengthen their applications. Questions and support are available through the program’s official email contact, ensuring applicants have access to guidance throughout the process. The recurring nature of the program allows eligible entities to plan and prepare for future funding opportunities aligned with annual deadlines.

Submit scoping form early to receive feedback; prioritize projects with strong safety impact supported by data such as crash reduction factors; demonstrate cost effectiveness and readiness