The Wisconsin Statewide Transit Planning Grant Program, also known as the Section 5304 Program, is designed to support local and regional transit planning efforts through financial assistance for studies and planning activities. This program is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and is funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). It aims to promote effective public and specialized transit services and ensure compliance with federal standards in transit development.

The program provides funding for up to 80 percent of eligible planning expenses, enabling applicants to pursue projects that improve transit systems or develop new transit-related strategies. Funding may be used for planning studies, feasibility analyses, or other preparatory efforts that advance public transportation objectives. To ensure compliance with federal guidelines, grantees must work with WisDOT and align their projects with the broader goals of enhancing transit accessibility and efficiency.

Eligible applicants include Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), local government authorities, and operators of public transportation systems in Wisconsin. These entities can submit applications for grant funding at any time through WisDOT’s BlackCat grants management system. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, providing flexibility in submission timing for interested parties.

Pre-award spending authorization is available to approved applicants, allowing them to begin incurring reimbursable expenses while WisDOT secures FTA funding. This ensures that projects can proceed without unnecessary delays due to federal funding processes. However, applicants are advised to work closely with WisDOT to ensure compliance with all financial and procedural requirements.

Specific submission requirements, application questions, and evaluation criteria are not detailed in the available information. Applicants are encouraged to contact WisDOT for guidance on preparing complete and competitive applications. WisDOT staff, such as Brian Kierzek, can provide assistance with program details, application processes, and funding requirements.

While there are no fixed deadlines for submission, interested organizations are advised to plan their projects and applications well in advance. This program operates on a rolling basis, providing continuous opportunities for eligible applicants to pursue funding for transit planning needs. For further inquiries or technical assistance, applicants may contact Brian Kierzek via email at brian.kierzek@dot.wi.gov or by phone at (608) 261-5695.