Innovative Technology Program

The Innovative Technology Program is administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation as part of the broader Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, a statewide initiative designed to modernize and improve Kansas transportation systems. The program was established following stakeholder consultations that identified a need to invest in emerging technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and long-term system performance. It reflects a strategic effort by the state to position both rural and urban communities for future transportation demands through targeted innovation investments. The primary purpose of the program is to provide financial assistance to partners undertaking transportation-related projects that introduce new technologies not currently deployed in the project’s local community. The program emphasizes measurable improvements in safety, mobility, and accessibility, while also encouraging projects that contribute to economic development, business attraction, or the enhancement of existing transportation infrastructure. Projects must demonstrate clear transportation benefits and align with the program’s focus on innovation rather than traditional infrastructure expansion. Funding for the program totals two million dollars per fiscal year, with a maximum award of one million dollars per project. All funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis, requiring recipients to incur eligible expenses prior to reimbursement. A mandatory local match of at least twenty five percent in non state cash is required, and in kind contributions such as donated staff time are not eligible. Projects that exceed the minimum match threshold may receive additional consideration during evaluation. Funds must be used specifically for technology investments and cannot be applied to road construction or common infrastructure such as fiber optic installations. Eligible applicants include Kansas cities, counties, transit agencies, educational institutions, and other public entities. Non governmental organizations and private technology providers may participate only through partnerships with eligible public agencies. This ensures that funded projects maintain a strong connection to public transportation needs and deliver community level benefits. Projects may span a wide range of modes including roadway systems, rail, aviation, unmanned aerial systems, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, public transit, and software or digital infrastructure. The application process requires a preliminary Project Concept Form submission before applicants are invited to submit a full application. Once the concept is reviewed and deemed eligible, applicants receive access to the formal application portal. The selection process evaluates proposals based on anticipated benefits such as safety and efficiency improvements, readiness for implementation, strength of partnerships, cost effectiveness, and long term sustainability. Projects must also demonstrate that they are not eligible for funding through other Kansas Department of Transportation programs. The program follows a structured timeline with concept forms opening in early July and closing in September, followed by application deadlines in early October. Awards are typically announced in early the following year. Projects are expected to be implemented within the fiscal year of award, with funding generally available for approximately two years from the execution of the agreement. Recipients are required to submit final reports detailing outcomes, lessons learned, and community impacts to support knowledge sharing and future statewide adoption. Program administration is handled by designated staff within the Kansas Department of Transportation, with inquiries directed to the program email or designated contacts. These contacts provide support throughout the application and implementation process. The program also promotes collaboration through events such as innovation summits, where stakeholders can exchange ideas and develop partnerships to advance transportation technology across Kansas.

Prioritize measurable transportation benefits and demonstrate readiness and strong partnerships