The Denali Commission invites statements of interest for match and gap funding assistance to support surface transportation projects in rural Alaska. This funding opportunity aims to assist communities that lack the financial resources to meet local match requirements or address funding gaps for shovel-ready transportation projects. The program prioritizes completing projects that support infrastructure development, improve regional connectivity, and enhance safety and resilience.
Up to $5,000,000 is committed to this program under Public Law 117-328, with individual applicants able to request up to $1,000,000 per community. Eligible applicants include municipal, borough, and tribal governments; regional tribal nonprofit organizations; Indian Tribes as defined under Title 25 U.S. Code § 5304; and other nonprofit organizations. Preference will be given to entities without an active or pending transportation award from the Denali Commission.
Eligible projects include road improvements, boardwalks, multi-use trails, rural transit activities, and other surface transportation initiatives, excluding airport facilities. Projects must either secure or apply for federal funding requiring a local match or demonstrate a funding gap of up to 30% of total project costs. Examples include drainage improvements, dust control, transit capital assistance, or activities promoting multi-modal connectivity. Equipment repair and upgrades may not exceed 30% of the total project cost.
The evaluation process will prioritize projects based on regional connectivity, readiness, support for economic development, climate resiliency, and improvements to public safety. A rolling review will be conducted, and successful applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal, typically around January 15, 2025, with a 45-day response window. Awards are anticipated in late spring 2025.
Statements of interest must outline the transportation problem, proposed solution, shovel-readiness, current funding sources, and specific funding needs. Applicants should include project costs, requested funds, and a timeline for procurement and construction. Submissions must be emailed to **projects@denali.gov** with “Match and Gap Funding Assistance for Surface Transportation Projects” in the subject line. The deadline for submissions is February 28, 2025.
Applicants are required to certify their organization’s good standing with the IRS and acknowledge their authorization to represent the organization. Reimbursements will be made on a rolling basis via electronic transfer in accordance with federal regulations. For further questions, applicants can contact Janet Davis, Grants Officer, at **jdavis@denali.gov**, or Nikki Navio, Transportation Program Manager, at **nnavio@denali.gov**.
