The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is offering a grant through the Scenic Byways-Statewide Planning and Research (SPR) Funds to support the promotion and marketing of seven designated National Scenic Byways located in Illinois. These include the Great River Road, the Lincoln Highway, Meeting of the Great Rivers, Historic National Road in Illinois, Ohio River Scenic Route, Illinois River Road, and Historic Route 66. This funding aims to elevate awareness and visitor engagement with these byways and their surrounding attractions through eligible research and marketing activities.

The total program funding available is $350,000, with each byway eligible to receive up to $50,000. The funding is made possible through an annual allocation from the Federal Highway Administration, which is included in IDOT’s Unified Work Program. There are no matching or cost-sharing requirements, and indirect costs are not allowed under this funding opportunity. Funding is disbursed through a non-competitive process, whereby each byway that submits an eligible project application will receive funding upon availability of federal funds.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations representing the seven designated byways. Applications must be submitted between April 1, 2025, and May 15, 2025, by 4:30 PM. Applications must be requested directly from IDOT by contacting John Paris. Completed applications are reviewed by the Scenic Byway Coordinator and forwarded to the Office of Business Services to draft the grant agreement.

Award notifications will include a Notice of State Award and a formal grant agreement. Projects must begin by July 1, 2025, and conclude by June 30, 2026. Quarterly reporting is required using the BoBS 2832 form, which combines financial and performance reporting. Documentation such as canceled checks and evidence of completed marketing tasks must accompany reimbursement requests.

This opportunity does not include a technical assistance session or webinar. For questions or to request the application materials, applicants must contact John Paris at john.paris@illinois.gov or (217) 524-6756.