Transportation Alternatives Program

The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), administered by the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), supports a wide array of smaller-scale transportation-related projects aimed at enhancing mobility, safety, and accessibility for non-motorized users across Arkansas. Reauthorized under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), this program continues a legacy of federal investment previously carried under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. TAP funding is set aside specifically to encourage communities to invest in pedestrian, bicycle, and other non-motorized transportation infrastructure and complementary community enhancement projects. TAP provides funding through a reimbursement model, offering up to 80 percent of the total project cost, with a 20 percent local match required. Projects that are eligible under both the TAP and the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) may apply to both, although they can only receive funding from one. In-kind matching is allowed for RTP and RTP-eligible projects, while non-RTP eligible TAP projects must use cash for the local match. Notably, TAP requires that infrastructure design plans be certified by a Registered Professional Engineer, depending on whether the project involves structural or non-structural components. Eligible projects include infrastructure for pedestrians and bicyclists, safe routes for non-drivers, rail-trail conversions, scenic viewing areas, streetscaping, historic preservation of bridges, stormwater mitigation, wildlife protection measures, and the conversion of former highways into boulevards. Additional supported activities include micromobility facilities and share programs, Safety Assessments for Vulnerable Road Users, and non-infrastructure pedestrian or trail master plans. The minimum funding request for projects with infrastructure components is $50,000, while there is no minimum for non-infrastructure-only projects. Eligible applicants consist of local governments, regional transportation and transit authorities, natural resource or public land agencies, school districts, tribal governments, and other regional entities with transportation responsibilities. Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status may serve as official sponsors only for RTP-eligible projects. For non-RTP eligible projects, nonprofits must partner with an eligible governmental sponsor. The program is open to applicants located within the state of Arkansas. Applications are accepted through a competitive review process overseen by the TAP Advisory Committee (TAPAC). The 2026 application cycle is currently open and will close at 4:00 p.m. CDT on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Applicants may attend virtual information sessions on February 12 or February 24, 2026, for guidance on the application process. Required submission materials include the application form, a resolution of support, and a project map. Each project requires a separate application. All proposals are reviewed competitively and must demonstrate public accessibility throughout the project’s lifespan. For questions or more information, applicants may contact the Local Programs Division at ARDOT via email at [email protected] or by phone at (479) 360-7161.