Safe Streets to Transit Grant Program

The Safe Streets to Transit Grant Program is administered by the New Jersey Department of Transportation through its Division of Local Aid and Economic Development. The program is designed to support counties and municipalities in improving pedestrian safety and accessibility in areas surrounding public transportation facilities. The initiative reflects a broader transportation strategy that emphasizes multimodal connectivity, environmental sustainability, and equitable access to transit systems. By focusing on pedestrian infrastructure, the program addresses a critical gap between transit stations and the surrounding community, recognizing that safe and convenient walking routes are essential for effective transit use. The primary purpose of the program is to enhance the safety and practicality of walking to transit facilities such as rail stations, bus stops, and ferry terminals. The program encourages projects that reduce pedestrian hazards, improve accessibility, and promote walking as a viable mode of transportation. Eligible activities include construction and infrastructure improvements such as sidewalks, curb ramps, pedestrian signals, traffic calming measures, and lighting enhancements. These improvements are generally focused within a half-mile radius of transit facilities, although projects up to one mile away may also be considered. The program explicitly excludes activities such as planning studies, routine maintenance, enforcement efforts, and transit service operations. Funding under this program supports both construction and certain design activities, with restrictions governed by state statutes. Municipalities eligible for specific state aid classifications may use a limited portion of funds for preliminary and final design, while construction-related costs such as inspection and material testing are broadly eligible. However, operating costs, routine repairs, and certain engineering or right-of-way expenses are not eligible. The program emphasizes capital improvements that produce measurable safety and accessibility outcomes for pedestrians, including individuals with mobility impairments. Eligibility for the program is limited to New Jersey counties and municipalities, with each entity permitted to submit one application per year. Targeted Urban Municipalities may receive additional consideration during the evaluation process. Applications must be submitted through the SAGE system and include key components such as a detailed Scope of Work and a Data Sheet. Applicants are required to demonstrate how their proposed project meets established evaluation criteria and must provide supporting documentation including maps and, where applicable, photographs and police reports. A formal resolution must also be submitted through the Project Management and Reporting System within a specified timeframe following application submission. Projects are evaluated based on a structured set of criteria that includes proximity to transit facilities, improvements to pedestrian safety, increased accessibility, and evidence of past pedestrian incidents. Additional considerations are given to projects that align with Complete Streets principles, address equity concerns, or incorporate proven safety countermeasures. Applications are reviewed by a committee composed of representatives from the Department of Transportation and potentially other agencies, with final funding decisions made by the Commissioner of Transportation. This structured evaluation process ensures that funding is directed toward projects with the greatest potential impact. The application timeline follows an annual cycle, with applications typically accepted between April and July, and resolutions due by the end of July. Grant announcements are made no later than November 30, and awarded projects are expected to be executed within 24 months of notification. This recurring structure allows applicants to anticipate future funding opportunities and plan accordingly. Program administration is governed by state regulations, and all funded projects must comply with applicable design standards, including those related to accessibility under federal law. For additional information or assistance, applicants may contact district offices of the New Jersey Department of Transportation, which provide regional support throughout the application and project implementation process. Detailed program guidance is available in the official handbook, which outlines procedures, requirements, and compliance standards for participating entities.

Ensure strong alignment with evaluation criteria such as proximity to transit, documented safety issues, and complete supporting materials; include clear maps and evidence of pedestrian incidents to maximize scoring