Transportation Alternatives Program

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) has released its 2023 Call for Projects under the Statewide Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), aiming to enhance accessibility, safety, and multimodal options across the state’s surface transportation network. This initiative is federally funded under the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside program, which originated with the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) and continues under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). The 2023 program offers approximately $47 million in TAP funding, divided into allocations based on population groups as well as a flexible statewide pool. TAP funds are designated for smaller-scale transportation infrastructure improvements, especially those supporting nonmotorized forms of travel and ADA compliance. Eligible projects span a wide range of infrastructure types, including sidewalks, bicycle lanes, pedestrian signals, lighting, traffic calming, turnouts, overlooks, and other features enhancing safety and access. The program also supports the conversion of abandoned rail corridors into trails, rehabilitation of historic transportation facilities, and Complete Streets implementations. A major component includes Safe Routes to School (SRTS) infrastructure improvements such as enhanced crossings, secure bike parking, and traffic diversion strategies near schools. Recreational Trails Program (RTP) projects are eligible under TAP if they meet requirements, though RTP funds are separately managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Applicants must demonstrate public support for their proposed projects and commit to a minimum 20 percent local match. The federal share is capped at 80 percent of total eligible project costs. The minimum federal reimbursement request per project is $500,000, and in-kind match is not accepted. All costs must comply with federal standards including the Uniform Relocation Act and Americans with Disabilities Act. TAP projects must be maintained for at least 25 years, provide public access, and serve a clear transportation function. Project sponsors must be eligible entities such as local governments, school districts, nonprofits, transit agencies, or other specified regional or natural resource agencies. State DOTs and MPOs over 200,000 in population may not apply directly but may partner with an eligible sponsor. The application process began on February 15, 2023, and closed at 4:00 PM CDT on April 30, 2023. Physical submissions were required, directed to Jeff Soula at NDOT’s Local Projects Office in Lincoln. The application package needed to include a completed application form, project resolution, cost estimates, and all required attachments. NDOT conducted a two-stage evaluation process: the first allocated funding within population categories, and the second scored remaining projects against flexible funds. Projects were assessed for clarity, safety impact, proximity to activity centers, connectivity, cost accuracy, and potential for enhancing the transportation network. Evaluations considered factors like Census resilience data and regional trail system integration. Final award decisions were communicated by July 31, 2023. Project scoring was out of 150 points, based on NDOT priority types, comprehensive review, and category-specific assessments. Projects aligning with underserved community needs, regional trail extensions, or Complete Street principles received priority. Sponsors were encouraged to include documentation such as maps, crash data, and photographs to strengthen their applications. NDOT staff served as the responsible charge for projects outside of TMAs, handling contracts, property acquisition, and construction oversight. For assistance, applicants were instructed to contact Local Projects Engineer Jeffrey Soula at jeffrey.soula@nebraska.gov or 402-479-3562, or Local Assistance Division Manager Jodi Gibson at jodi.gibson@nebraska.gov or 402-479-4337. Full program guidance and application materials were made available through the NDOT TAP website.