Park and Ride Program Grant

The Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) administers the Municipal Park and Ride Grant Demonstration Program to address growing transportation needs and environmental concerns across the state. With a focus on reducing single-occupancy vehicle (SOV) travel and minimizing vehicle emissions, this initiative provides funding support to Vermont municipalities aiming to establish or expand park-and-ride facilities. These lots serve as important nodes for commuter consolidation and are critical in facilitating public transit connections and improving environmental outcomes. The program was established in response to legislative findings that identified an urgent need for expanded park-and-ride capacity as part of a broader commitment to sustainable transportation infrastructure. Funded through the state transportation fund, the FY 2026 program allocates a total of $150,000 for grants specifically targeted at preliminary engineering and construction activities. Importantly, grant funding cannot be used for land acquisition or lease expenses. Eligible project costs include installation of gravel or paved surfaces, signage, lighting, and other related site improvements. These enhancements ensure the lots are safe, accessible, and functional for year-round commuter use. Eligibility for the program is broad but clearly defined. Any Vermont municipality may apply, provided the proposed park-and-ride lot meets certain criteria. These include location requirements (the lot must be on or near a state highway), minimum capacity (at least ten parking spaces), and year-round availability. The lot must either be municipally owned or, alternatively, sited on state-owned land with a valid 1111 Permit, or privately held under a lease agreement of at least twenty years. Maintenance responsibilities fall on the municipality, and collaboration with local public transit providers is encouraged where routes are operational or planned. The grant application process is straightforward but competitive. Applicants must submit their completed application packages by August 26, 2025. Applications will be reviewed using a scoring rubric, as outlined in the SFY 2026 Park and Ride Grant Program Scoring Form. The agency evaluates each proposal against predefined criteria including site suitability, potential use, integration with existing transit services, and overall impact. While there is no requirement for matching funds, applicants are expected to clearly demonstrate project readiness and alignment with program objectives. All application materials—including the program summary, application form, and scoring sheet—are accessible via the Vermont Agency of Transportation’s website. For technical assistance or questions regarding eligibility, applicants can contact Tina Bohl at (802) 793-1743 or via email at [email protected], or Derek Kenison at (802) 595-4316, [email protected]. Given the limited funding pool and competitive nature of the program, prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparing materials well in advance of the deadline. This grant is issued on an annual basis and, as such, applicants who miss the current cycle may plan for future submission opportunities. The next expected cycle will follow a similar schedule in 2026, with application deadlines likely set for late August. All funds for the current cycle must be utilized within the designated fiscal year, and award notifications are typically released after the close of the application period, once evaluations have been completed.