Statewide Planning and Research Funds - Scenic Byways Program

The Scenic Byways Statewide Planning and Research Funds program is administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to support the promotion and development of nationally designated scenic byways across the state. This funding opportunity is part of the Statewide Planning and Research (SPR) program and is supported through a combination of federal and state funding sources. IDOT, through its Office of Planning and Programming, oversees the distribution and administration of these funds to ensure alignment with transportation planning and tourism promotion objectives. The program specifically targets the seven nationally recognized scenic byways in Illinois, including corridors such as the Great River Road and Historic Route 66. The primary purpose of this grant program is to provide financial support for research and marketing initiatives that enhance the visibility, accessibility, and economic impact of scenic byways. Funds are intended to be used for promotional campaigns, tourism development strategies, and research activities that highlight attractions along these designated routes. The funding is allocated annually, with each eligible byway receiving up to 50000 dollars, contingent upon the availability of federal funds. These efforts are designed to strengthen regional tourism, preserve cultural and historical assets, and encourage economic development along these corridors. Funding under this program is relatively structured, with a maximum award ceiling of 50000 dollars and no required cost sharing or matching contributions. Indirect costs are not allowed under this funding opportunity, which means that all awarded funds must be used directly for programmatic activities related to research and marketing. The program operates on a reimbursement basis, requiring grantees to submit invoices along with supporting documentation such as canceled checks and proof of completed work. Quarterly reporting is required, including both financial and performance reports, to ensure accountability and track outcomes. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to the seven nationally designated scenic byways within Illinois. These include the Great River Road, Meeting of the Great Rivers Byway, Historic National Road, Ohio River Scenic Route, Historic Route 66, Lincoln Highway, and Illinois River Road. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations associated with these byways and must meet all state prequalification requirements, including registration in the GATA portal, completion of fiscal and administrative risk assessments, and possession of an active Unique Entity Identifier through SAM.gov. The application process requires submission of several standardized forms through the State of Illinois grant system. Required materials include the GATA application, a uniform budget, a conflict of interest disclosure, and a programmatic risk assessment. Applicants must also demonstrate compliance with federal and state regulations and maintain eligibility status throughout the grant period. Applications are reviewed by the Scenic Byway Coordinator and then processed by the Office of Business Services to finalize grant agreements. The application window opens on April 1, 2026, and closes on May 15, 2026 at 5:00 PM. The submission is a one-time process with no pre-application requirement or technical assistance session offered. Awards are expected to begin on July 1, 2026, and extend through June 30, 2027. During this period, grantees are responsible for executing approved projects and complying with all reporting and administrative requirements. While the program appears to operate annually based on federal allocations, recurrence is not explicitly stated as guaranteed, though funding is described as being allocated each fiscal year.