Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP-L)

The Transportation Alternatives Program – Locally Programmed (TAP-L) is a federally funded initiative managed by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP). This program supports surface transportation enhancements that facilitate non-motorized travel, with a particular emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. TAP-L is embedded within the broader regional planning framework of CMAP's ON TO 2050 Plan and is guided by the CMAQ, CRP, and TAP Project Selection Committee. These bodies work collectively to advance a multimodal transportation network that emphasizes sustainability, accessibility, and efficiency throughout northeastern Illinois. The TAP-L initiative specifically aims to implement elements of the Regional Greenways and Trails Plan. This long-range vision aspires to create a continuous, interconnected network of greenways and trails across the region, improving scenic value, public access to natural habitats, and opportunities for both recreation and non-motorized transportation. Projects supported by TAP-L include the development of multi-use trails, trail bridges, underpasses, and on-street bicycle facilities. However, projects must demonstrate a transportation purpose and not be solely recreational. Ineligible components include general park amenities like picnic tables, campgrounds, and trash bins. Eligibility for TAP-L funding is restricted to governmental entities with oversight of transportation or trail systems. These include local governments, regional transportation authorities, transit agencies, school districts, and public land agencies. The Illinois Department of Transportation and nonprofit organizations are not eligible to apply directly but may serve as partners. All awarded projects must provide a minimum local match of 20 percent. This match can be met using sources such as motor fuel tax revenues, Rebuild Illinois bond funds, state allocations, or private funding. For Cohort 4 communities, the local match and preliminary engineering requirements may be waived. Importantly, Phase I engineering costs are generally ineligible unless exceptions are granted. The competitive evaluation process for TAP-L is structured around five scoring criteria. Projects receive weighted scores based on their alignment with the Regional Greenways and Trails Plan (30%), expected market for the facility (20%), safety and attractiveness (20%), equity considerations (20%), and project readiness (10%). These criteria ensure that funded projects are regionally significant, broadly accessible, and strategically aligned with long-term regional transportation goals. For the Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2026–2030 cycle, CMAP has outlined a clear call-for-projects timeline. The application window opens on October 21, 2024, and closes on December 20, 2024. A webinar will be hosted on October 30, 2024, to provide prospective applicants with guidance. Selected projects will be recommended by staff in April 2025, followed by a public comment period and review by the Project Selection Committee and the Transportation Committee. Final approval by the MPO Policy Committee is scheduled for June 2025. Interested applicants can consult the TAP-L application workbook available on the program's call-for-projects webpage. For general inquiries, individuals may contact CMAP via email at transportation@cmap.illinois.gov or by phone at 312-454-0400. Project-specific questions should be directed to the appropriate planning liaison. The program's official address is 433 West Van Buren Street, Suite 450, Chicago, Illinois 60607.