Truck Access Route Program (TARP)

The Truck Access Route Program (TARP), administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), is designed to support local governments in upgrading their roadway infrastructure to accommodate 80,000-pound trucks. As part of IDOT’s broader commitment to safe, efficient, and modern transportation infrastructure, the TARP initiative ensures that local routes meet the load capacity requirements necessary for the movement of goods and services across the state. The program aligns with Illinois’ economic development goals by enhancing freight mobility and providing necessary access for commercial transportation within local jurisdictions. Each fiscal year, IDOT solicits applications for TARP funding, inviting local agencies to propose road improvement projects that can be constructed during the upcoming fiscal year. The state contributes up to $45,000 per lane mile and $22,000 per eligible intersection toward selected projects. However, state participation is capped at 50 percent of total construction costs or $900,000, whichever is less. This ensures a cost-sharing model that promotes local investment while leveraging state resources for critical infrastructure upgrades. To be considered for the upcoming funding cycle, specifically for Fiscal Year 2026, applicants must submit a comprehensive package that includes a cover letter from the local public agency, an LRS Grant Application, the TARP Project Application form, a narrative explaining the proposed project, a location map, photographs of the current facility, and a detailed cost estimate. While the FY26 application cycle has not yet opened, applicants are encouraged to review the FY25 TARP Circular Letter to prepare their materials in advance. TARP does not provide rolling funding, but it is offered annually with a recurring solicitation cycle. Although the exact opening date for FY26 is not provided, it is expected to follow the same timeline as previous years, with applications opening later in the calendar year. IDOT evaluates submitted applications based on project readiness, need for truck access, and alignment with the state’s transportation improvement goals. Eligible applicants include local public agencies within Illinois. This includes city or township governments and county governments that manage local roads. There are no geographic exclusions within the state, making the program broadly accessible to all qualifying jurisdictions in Illinois. Applicants are advised to work directly with the district Local Roads and Streets office that corresponds to their county for guidance and submission procedures. For further assistance or inquiries about the TARP application process, applicants may contact Holly Primm, Local Planning & Programming Manager at the Illinois Department of Transportation, Bureau of Local Roads and Streets. She can be reached at Holly.Primm@illinois.gov or by phone at (217) 782-1662. The department is located at 2300 South Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, IL 62764.

Applicants are encouraged to work with their IDOT district Local Roads and Streets office for assistance.