The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is offering a special solicitation grant opportunity to support projects that enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety, accessibility, and convenience throughout Ohio. This initiative seeks to fund a range of pedestrian and bicycle-related projects, with an emphasis on those that can commence construction before July 2026. The solicitation will remain open until May 1, 2025, providing municipalities and organizations the opportunity to secure funding for relevant projects. Funding is available for planning, education, data collection, and infrastructure improvements that contribute to a more walkable and bike-friendly environment.

The funding opportunity is structured to support several project types. These include plans and studies that develop pedestrian and bicycle strategies at various jurisdictional levels, data collection initiatives to track and analyze non-motorized transportation patterns, educational and promotional activities aimed at increasing awareness and safety, and short-term infrastructure projects that improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Additionally, traditional infrastructure projects of statewide significance, which enhance the safety and comfort of Ohio’s State & US Bike Route System, are also eligible.

Eligible applicants vary based on the type of project proposed. Non-infrastructure project applicants must be political subdivisions such as cities, townships, counties, school districts, health districts, park districts, and regional planning organizations, as well as nonprofit organizations with government support. Infrastructure projects must be sponsored by a jurisdiction with maintenance authority, such as a city, township, county, or park district. Local governments are eligible to apply regardless of their location inside or outside a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).

The funding opportunity provides federal funding for 100% reimbursement of eligible costs. However, municipalities with a population of 200,000 or more must provide a 20% local match for infrastructure projects. Funding may be used for planning and design, though ODOT consultant assistance is limited and should only be requested in critical cases. Any work completed prior to Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) project authorization is ineligible for reimbursement. Project sponsors are responsible for covering any budget overages beyond the awarded amount.

Applicants must submit a detailed application including project descriptions, maps, cost estimates, budgets, and other supporting documentation depending on the type of project. Infrastructure projects require specific site details, while non-infrastructure projects must include a comprehensive scope of work and budget breakdown. ODOT will review applications based on eligibility, feasibility, impact, and the applicant’s ability to complete the project. Priority will be given to projects that can be implemented quickly, address areas of high transportation demand, or align with an existing local plan.

Electronic applications must be submitted by May 1, 2025, and applicants can expect to receive funding decisions from ODOT by August 2025. For further details or assistance in determining project eligibility, applicants may contact ODOT representatives or their district pedestrian and bicycle coordinators. The grant does not cover personnel costs, road repaving, or unrelated infrastructure improvements. Funding allocations will be determined based on project impact and cost-effectiveness, with projects over $3 million being less likely to receive full funding.