Statewide Planning & Research (SPR)

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) provides a framework for planning and implementing sustainable, user-focused transportation systems across the state through its Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). This plan, developed and updated every five years by IDOT’s Office of Planning and Programming (OP&P), serves as a strategic roadmap for the future of Illinois’ transportation infrastructure. The LRTP outlines investment priorities, evaluates evolving transportation needs, and supports integrated, multimodal transportation systems that contribute to economic growth, environmental protection, and public welfare. The plan takes a comprehensive, long-term perspective, incorporating considerations such as population growth, travel patterns, climate impact, and equity. IDOT also utilizes Statewide Planning and Research (SPR) funds to support planning and research activities in alignment with the LRTP. These funds are designed to promote a cooperative, continuous, and comprehensive transportation planning process. Eligible activities include planning studies, data collection and analysis, research initiatives, program development, performance management, and stakeholder coordination. Although these funds are available to both internal and external applicants, IDOT has specified that there are no available SPR funds for external use in Fiscal Year 2026. To be considered for funding, applicants must propose projects that align with goals or strategies from the LRTP or other associated IDOT plans. Additional evaluation criteria include the implementation of performance-based program development, asset management systems, benefits to disadvantaged or economically distressed communities, contributions to climate change mitigation or carbon reduction, equity enhancements, resiliency planning, and discretionary grant program development. These criteria reflect IDOT’s commitment to sustainable, equitable, and data-driven transportation infrastructure. Application requirements differ depending on whether the grantee is GATA-exempt or not. Local Public Agencies that are GATA-exempt must submit forms including BoBS 2831 (Conflict of Interest), the IDOT Uniform Grant Application, the IDOT GATA Exempt Budget, and BoBS 2835 (GATA Exempt Risk Assessment). For state agencies, universities, or other nonexempt grantees, the required forms include BoBS 2831, the standard GATA Application, the GATA Budget Template, and the GATA Programmatic Risk Assessment. These documentation requirements ensure compliance with state regulations and financial accountability standards. While no specific opening or closing dates are provided for the SPR program for FY 2026, IDOT has clearly stated that no external awards will be made in that fiscal year. This suggests that the current opportunity is closed and that future availability will depend on forthcoming announcements. Interested parties should continue to monitor IDOT communications for updates on future funding cycles. The program is recurring in nature, as reflected by the five-year LRTP cycle and repeated use of SPR funds for long-term projects. For further information or to discuss eligibility and planning, interested applicants are encouraged to contact Michael Vanderhoof via email at michael.vanderhoof@illinois.gov. The IDOT office is located at the Hanley Building, 2300 S. Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, IL 62764, and can be reached at (217) 782-7820.