Cost Share Program 

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) administers the Cost Share Program, established following recommendations from the Kansas Joint Legislative Transportation Vision Task Force in 2019 and continued under the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE). This program is designed to leverage state funds alongside local and private investments to support transportation infrastructure projects that enhance safety, promote job growth and retention, relieve congestion, improve mobility, and elevate the overall condition of the transportation system across both rural and urban areas of Kansas. The Spring 2025 round of the Cost Share Program offers up to $6 million in total funding, with individual project requests capped at $1,000,000. Funds may only be used to reimburse eligible construction costs. This excludes preliminary engineering, utility relocations, and similar non-construction expenses. The program operates as a reimbursement model: KDOT reimburses up to 85% of project costs once construction begins and supporting documents are submitted. A minimum local cash match of 15% is required, and higher contributions from applicants may increase the likelihood of selection. Eligible applicants typically include local units of government, though non-governmental organizations may also be considered. Projects can span a broad array of transportation modes, including roadways (on and off the state system), rail, airport infrastructure, bicycle and pedestrian paths, and public transit. Each project must address a significant transportation need such as improving safety, access, or mobility. Applications for Spring 2025 are accepted exclusively through KDOT’s online portal between February 17 and March 27, 2025. Candidate projects are evaluated based on criteria including economic development potential, level of local financial contribution, safety improvements, regional priority, geographic distribution, and the ability to let the project within the fiscal year of award. Applications from previous rounds do not carry over and must be resubmitted. Award notifications are generally issued within 3 to 6 months following the application deadline. Construction may not commence until after a signed agreement and a formal Notice to Proceed have been issued by KDOT. Reimbursement is conditional upon submission of final design plans and bid tabs. Questions about the application or program should be directed to Michelle Needham, Economic Development Programs Manager, at michelle.d.needham@ks.gov or (785) 296-1939. The application link and sample application materials are available on KDOT’s official website.

Reimbursement only begins after a Notice to Proceed and submission of final plans and bid tabs. Ensure at least a 15% cash match is secured. Stronger applications exceed the minimum match and demonstrate job growth or retention impact.