Maryland SHA seeks proposals for non-traditional transportation projects

Baltimore — From Safe Routes to School projects, to historic preservation and trail construction, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is seeking proposals for transportation-related projects funded through the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). TAP has available approximately $10 million in federal funds for a variety of alternative transportation projects including planning, design and construction funds for on- and off-road facilities for pedestrians, bicyclists and other non-motorized transportation.

SHA invites local governments and government-sponsored community groups to submit applications now through May 15.   

“The non-traditional projects funded through Transportation Enhancement projects enhance the quality of life for Maryland residents and visitors throughout the State,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters.  “We have program staff to assist groups with the application and process to move these types of community enhancements forward.”

The TAP Program was created last year under the new federal transportation authorization bill, Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21), and replaces funding previously made available through the Transportation Enhancement and Safe Routes to School programs.  The new program includes a broad range of eligible activities, including projects to provide safe routes for non-drivers, as well as community improvement and environmental mitigation activities. 

Key changes from previous programs include design and planning activities that are eligible for partial funding, and projects will be considered for up to 80 percent of eligible program costs. Eligible project sponsors under the new program consist of local governments, regional transportation authorities, transit authorities, school districts, and natural resource or public land agencies.

The Baltimore Metropolitan Council (BMC), Washington Coalition of Governments (WashCOG) and WILMPCO (Wilmington Area Planning Council) are partners with the Maryland Department of Transportation and help select relevant projects within their member jurisdictions.

TAP guidelines and applications may be downloaded online at www.roads.maryland.gov/index.aspx?pageid=144. All applications should be submitted to SHA through May 15, 2014.