Published: November 30, 2008 11:41 pm      

Applicants sought for transportation initiatives

Improving community life is the goal

Frankfort — The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is accepting applications for funding through federal grant programs aimed at providing local communities with resources that improve quality of life through transportation-related initiatives.

“This is an opportunity for local governments and local organizations to make a difference, improve their communities and create a unique atmosphere,” said Transportation Secretary Joe Prather. “It’s also a tremendous opportunity for us to do more than just lay blacktop. We’re working to improve the environment, preserve our history, improve safety and encourage healthy lifestyles.”

The federal programs include Transportation Enhancement, Safe Routes to School, Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality and Scenic Byways.

The Transportation Enhancement program provides funding for a variety of nontraditional projects, including the restoration of historic transportation facilities, bike and pedestrian services, landscaping and scenic beautification and highway runoff pollution mitigation. For eligibility, projects must have a surface transportation relationship and meet the requirements of at least one of 12 eligible categories. An “intent to apply” letter is required for these funds and must be received by Jan. 31.

Safe Routes to School projects are designed to enable and encourage children to walk and bicycle to school, improve bicycle and pedestrian travel and make bicycling and walking a safe and appealing transportation alternative. Applications will be received from Jan. 1 through March 15.

Transportation-related projects or programs that improve air quality are provided funds through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program. Projects include ride share initiatives, air quality outreach and education, bicycle and pedestrian facilities or alternative fuel projects. Applications are filtered through local metropolitan planning organizations. The current application cycle is today through Jan. 31.

The Scenic Byway and Highway program focuses on designating and preserving roads as scenic, recognizing them for archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and/or scenic qualities. This designation is the first step toward becoming a national scenic byway. Applications are received throughout the year, although the application cycle for national scenic designation is Jan. 15 through March 15.

Approximately $30 million is provided for all of the programs combined each year, excluding scenic byways, which are only funded if designated as national byways. Funds provided may be used to cover 80 percent of the cost of projects. Safe Routes to School projects are eligible for 100 percent funding. Applicants must be a state or local government agency or a nonprofit organization if in partnership with a governmental agency.