Transit Statewide/Non-Metropolitan Transportation Planning - Federal Sec 5305(e)

The Transit Statewide/Non-Metropolitan Transportation Planning – Federal Sec 5305(e) program is administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) under the authority of 49 USC 5305. This federal program provides funding for technical studies that support public and intermodal transportation planning throughout the state of Illinois, particularly in areas outside metropolitan jurisdictions. The program is partially exempt from GATA requirements if the awardee is a Local Public Agency (LPA). Oversight and coordination for the program are provided by IDOT's Office of Intermodal Project Implementation, specifically through the Program Support (Planning) unit. This funding supports technical studies and preliminary engineering activities designed to improve public and intermodal transportation infrastructure and operations. The studies must address transportation challenges and align with the goals of Illinois’ Long-Range Transportation Plan. These include enhancing accessibility and mobility for both people and freight, increasing safety and security, supporting economic development, promoting environmental sustainability, improving system integration and efficiency, and ensuring resilience and preservation of transportation assets. The funding is explicitly restricted to technical studies with a connection to public transportation. Eligible applicants include governmental entities and mass transit agencies that are registered with SAM.gov, possess a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and are in good standing with the Illinois Secretary of State where applicable. While the program is open to various public bodies, applicants must ensure local support and provide non-federal matching funds, as the grant covers up to 80% of total project costs. Matching funds typically come from another CSFA program, and applicants should adjust matching totals accordingly when this occurs. To apply, interested agencies must contact Chuck Abraham, Manager of Program Support (Planning), at Charles.Abraham@illinois.gov or 312-793-3510, to obtain the electronic application package. The submission must include a Programmatic Risk Assessment, a Uniform Application for Grant Assistance, a supplementary form specific to Section 5305(e), a detailed budget, and a signed affidavit of conflict of interest disclosures. If selected, awardees must provide proof of local support via letters and an executed Board Resolution, along with an Opinion of Counsel included in the supplement. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with statewide transportation goals, study logic and feasibility, relevance to Illinois transportation research, implementability, and availability of local cash match. Evaluators use a 25-point scoring system across five weighted criteria. There is no standing application deadline, as submission dates vary and are posted with the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for each cycle. Once submitted, applications are reviewed and awards issued within 25 to 30 business days. While this program does not allow renewals, it does recur annually, with the next anticipated deadline to be confirmed in upcoming NOFOs. The grant is not rolling. In case of application rejections, applicants may file appeals limited strictly to the evaluation process. Program funding for FY 2025 totals $5,172,716, with $3,980,196 coming from federal sources, $400,041 from state funds, and $848,509 in local matching contributions. Award sizes range from $55,860 to $1,292,839, with an average of $397,901.23. Recipients are required to submit quarterly reports using BOBS 2832 and comply with all relevant federal and state audit and recordkeeping requirements. The program adheres to federal guidance under 2 CFR 200 and relevant FTA circulars. The headquarters office for the administering agency is located at 69 W. Washington, Suite 2100, Chicago, IL.

Proposals with local cash match receive preference in tie-breaker scenarios. Ensure study aligns with Illinois Long-Range Transportation Plan goals and is implementable.