Transportation Management Association Grant

The Massachusetts Transportation Management Association (TMA) Grant Program is administered by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) through its Rail and Transit Division. This competitive annual grant opportunity is intended to support the development and expansion of projects that reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips, facilitate mode shift, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve mobility options across Massachusetts. With an emphasis on sustainable transportation solutions, the program seeks to engage regional TMAs in implementing services that promote active transportation, transit access, and transportation demand management (TDM) strategies. For the FY27 cycle, approximately $3 million in state funds is available. TMAs may apply individually or jointly, and funding may be requested for FY27 and/or FY28. Eligible activities include the operation or expansion of shuttle, bus, or transit services; procurement of new vehicles (electric, hybrid, or alternative fuel only); micromobility programs; service planning; and marketing or administrative efforts that encourage alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle travel. Specific allowable uses range from emergency ride home programs to on-site commuter education, marketing transportation alternatives, and administering commuter benefit programs. However, incentives, giveaways, transit passes, or fare reimbursements are not eligible, though the administrative costs associated with such programs may be covered. Eligibility is restricted to recognized Transportation Management Associations operating within Massachusetts. TMAs must be officially recognized by July 1, 2026, to apply for FY27 funding, with some flexibility for near-complete applications considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants are strongly encouraged to build collaborations with community stakeholders, local government agencies, and regional planning entities to ensure broad engagement and alignment with local and regional transportation goals. Projects are expected to align with the core program goals of reducing greenhouse gases, increasing ridership, improving access to jobs, and supporting underserved populations such as individuals with disabilities and older adults. Applications will open on February 10, 2026, and close on April 10, 2026. Submissions must be completed through an online portal, which allows applicants to save progress for up to 30 days. Applicants must upload a completed budget spreadsheet, at least one letter of support, and any additional relevant attachments. MassDOT advises applicants to submit their applications well in advance of the deadline. Grant funds are reimbursed on a monthly or quarterly basis, typically within 30 days of invoice submission. Funds must be fully expended by June 30, 2027 (FY27) or by June 30, 2028 (FY28), depending on the award cycle. Applications are evaluated based on criteria including project need, deliverability, potential for social equity impact, and alignment with the program’s performance indicators. These include measures such as the number of SOV trips reduced, ridership data, and engagement activities. The review panel includes staff from MassDOT and external experts familiar with community transportation and workforce development. Awards may be full or partial and subject to conditions such as opening services to the general public. If proposals overlap in scope or geography, MassDOT reserves the right to consolidate or restructure awards to achieve cost-efficiency and broader impact. For additional guidance, applicants are directed to contact MassDOT’s Transit Grants Program by email at [email protected] or by phone at (857) 368-8584. Detailed instructions, application forms, and a budget template are available on the Mass.gov website. Applicants are encouraged to attend virtual information sessions and seek technical assistance during the application period. The TMA Grant Program represents a strategic investment in regional mobility and sustainable commuting in Massachusetts and is an important opportunity for TMAs to advance innovative, community-based transportation solutions.