The Active Transportation Microgrant Program is a non-infrastructure funding initiative launched by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) in collaboration with the Connecticut Councils of Government (COGs). The program provides small, targeted grants of up to $5,000 to support safe, equitable, and sustainable transportation options, especially for vulnerable road users. Eligible applicants include municipalities, school districts, K–12 schools (public, private, and tribal), health districts, and nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status based in Connecticut.
The grant’s goal is to foster community-led efforts that promote walking, biking, and rolling, especially among youth and underserved populations. Funds must be used for stand-alone, non-infrastructure items and activities such as safety education events, bicycle helmets, bike fleets (including adaptive bikes), scooter racks, pedestrian safety vests, hand-held stop paddles, and bike repair kits. Engineering, design, and construction costs are ineligible, and the program prohibits combining its funds with other state or federal sources.
CTDOT administers the program on a rolling basis with quarterly award cycles. Applications are submitted to local COGs, who review and forward them to the Department. Deadlines for 2025 submissions are March 28, June 27, September 26, and December 19. Each organization may apply for up to two microgrants per calendar year, but the first grant must be fully spent before submitting a second application. The program is non-competitive, and all complete and eligible applications are funded, contingent on availability of funds.
Awarded funds are paid as grants (not reimbursements) through the COGs, and grantees must expend all funds within one year of receipt. Quarterly reporting is required, and unspent funds must be returned. The use of grant funds as a local match for federal programs or other state funding is prohibited.
For technical assistance or program questions, applicants may contact Transportation Planner Christopher Roberts at Christopher.Roberts@ct.gov or (860) 594-2168. For support with Safe Routes to School registration, contact Bridget Moriarty at Bridget.Moriarty@ct.gov or (860) 594-3229. Full guidelines, application forms, and submission procedures are provided in the official CTDOT documentation.
Be specific in identifying eligible non-infrastructure items. Ensure Safe Routes to School registration is complete. Submit via your local COG and adhere to quarterly deadlines. Include public visibility components and reporting readiness.
