Off System Bridge Program 

The Off-System Bridge Program is a federally funded initiative administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT). The program is designed to ensure compliance with federal requirements that mandate a portion of a state's Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) funds and Bridge Program Funds (BPF) be used to replace or rehabilitate bridges not located on the federal-aid highway system. This grant program specifically targets structurally deficient or functionally obsolete bridges to enhance safety and infrastructure sustainability across rural and urban local roads in Kansas. This program aims to address the needs of bridges on roads that are functionally classified as rural minor collector, rural local, or urban local. To be eligible, a bridge must have a current National Bridge Inventory (NBI) inspection report and be rated as “Poor.” The goal is to replace or rehabilitate these substandard structures to improve local and regional connectivity and support safer, more efficient transportation networks. The program provides up to $2 million in combined state and federal funds per project, covering 100% of the construction and construction engineering costs. Funding is sourced from approximately $10 million annually from STBG and $8 million from BPF, with an additional $2.5 million state match. However, local agencies are responsible for all costs exceeding the $2 million cap, including design, right-of-way acquisition, utility relocation, and any non-participating expenses. Participation in the program is competitive, with funds awarded through a structured application process. Applications must be complete and submitted via email to kdot.lpeplans@ks.gov. Applicants are encouraged to follow up with the Bureau of Local Projects to confirm receipt if they do not receive a confirmation email. The current funding applies to Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2027, with a total annual program budget of $20.5 million. Key contacts for the program include Dawn Hueske, who can be reached at (785) 207-1420. While no specific application open or close dates were listed, the program is recurring and competitive. The most recent guidelines apply for FFY 2027, indicating that the next cycle is anticipated within that fiscal year. There are no pre-application deadlines, Q&A sessions, or LOI requirements explicitly mentioned in the guidelines. Applicants are advised to review the Off-System Bridge Program Fact Sheet for detailed eligibility and funding information, ensuring all documentation is up-to-date and meets the program’s criteria. This program presents a critical opportunity for Kansas local governments to modernize their bridge infrastructure with significant financial support.