The Tennessee Department of Transportation announced the creation of the Multimodal Access Fund. The Multimodal Access Fund is a new program to support the transportation needs of transit users, pedestrians, and bicyclists through infrastructure projects that address existing gaps along the state highway network.
“This fund is designed to help communities provide transportation choices for people across Tennessee,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. “Improving the facilities for walking, biking, and transit is essential to the continued growth and success of our towns and cities.”
Examples of projects eligible under the Multimodal Fund Program include sidewalks and pedestrian crossing improvements, bus shelters, park and ride facilities, and bicycle lanes. Multimodal Access projects will be funded 95% by TDOT with 5% funded with local matching funds. Total project costs are not to exceed $1 million.
“It can be incredibly difficult for cities and towns to fund projects of this nature,” added TDOT Assistant Commissioner Toks Omishakin, Chief of Environment and Planning. “We hope this program will allow communities to move forward with projects that will benefit both residents and the environment.”
Project requests for funding must be submitted to TDOT through Rural and Metropolitan Planning Organizations (RPOs/MPOs). Applications for the first round of funding will be accepted beginning Oct. 25, and must be received by TDOT no later than Dec. 20.
For more information about Multimodal Access Fund, project guidelines, and applications, visit http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/publictrans/fund.htm.