Bike Path Grant Program (BIKE)

The Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Program (BIKE PATH) is administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and provides reimbursement grants to local governmental units in Illinois. The primary aim of this annual program is to support the acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation of public, off-road, non-motorized bicycle paths and associated support facilities. BIKE PATH funding encourages local governments to develop infrastructure that promotes bicycling as a safe, accessible, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation and recreation. Projects with broader trail access such as those accommodating equestrians are given special consideration, although traditional bike paths remain the core focus of this funding initiative. The grant reimburses up to 50% of total approved project costs. While the maximum development grant award is capped at $200,000, there is no cap for land acquisition projects. Eligible uses of funds include land acquisition through purchase or long-term non-revocable lease (minimum 25 years), new path construction, renovation of existing paths, and the development of support amenities such as restrooms, lighting, benches, and parking. However, stand-alone amenities like fencing or drainage systems are not eligible unless tied to trail construction. The program operates strictly on a reimbursement basis, meaning applicants must front project costs and receive payment after IDNR review and approval. Applicants must be units of local government with statutory authority for acquiring, developing, and maintaining land for bicycle trail purposes. This includes counties, municipalities, townships, park districts, conservation districts, and forest preserve districts. Nonprofits and federal/state agencies are not eligible. All grant-assisted sites must be open to the general public for non-motorized bicycle use and comply with ADA and Illinois Accessibility Code requirements. Projects using eminent domain for land acquisition are not eligible, and road-share bike paths are also excluded. Additionally, any work performed or costs incurred prior to grant agreement execution are ineligible for reimbursement. Applications must be submitted through the AmpliFund Grant Management System by 5:00 p.m. on May 9, 2025. No other forms of submission are accepted. Applicants must include a completed application and budget, a detailed project narrative, environmental assessments, maps, cost estimates, and a non-refundable fee (0.0025 of the request, minimum $100 and maximum $300). A grant award fee of 1% of the total funding award (capped at $5,000) is also required upon selection. For acquisition projects, appraisals must be submitted and approved before any property transaction. Development projects must follow state and local procurement guidelines, and significant project scope changes require IDNR approval. Evaluation criteria include the project's alignment with state or regional trail plans, connectivity to other trail systems, service to high-demand areas, scenic and recreational quality, demonstrated public support (e.g., public hearings), and operational sustainability. Selected applicants will enter into an agreement with IDNR and have 24 months to complete the project. Reimbursement turnaround is typically 8 to 12 weeks following approval of final billing. Any delays or compliance failures may result in denial of reimbursement and debarment from future funding rounds. For assistance, applicants can contact IDNR’s Office of Grant Management and Assistance at dnr.grants@illinois.gov or (217) 782-7481.

Ensure submission via AmpliFund and include all documentation; missing items will result in ineligibility