The Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity (DNPA) is offering grant funding for Tactical Urbanism Demonstration Projects aimed at enhancing active transportation options across Indiana. These projects focus on low-cost, short-term improvements that create long-term momentum to support safe walking and bicycling. The initiative is part of the DNPA’s broader efforts to promote physical activity, healthy eating, and obesity reduction, addressing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes that impact Indiana’s residents. By investing in quick-to-implement tactical urbanism projects, the grant aims to spark community-driven change in the built environment.

The grant will fund temporary, low-cost urban infrastructure projects that improve pedestrian and bicycle safety. Examples include pop-up traffic calming measures, temporary bike lanes, and pedestrian lanes. Special consideration is given to projects that improve access to essential locations such as parks, schools, shopping areas, and transit stops, with an emphasis on serving underserved populations and addressing structural barriers to health. The projects must actively engage the community in both planning and implementation and include a post-project evaluation to document outcomes and lessons learned.

Eligible applicants for this funding include incorporated communities in Indiana, school corporations, and nonprofit community groups. Grants will be awarded based on applicants' readiness to execute projects and their commitment to considering future permanent changes that foster healthy and active environments. The maximum grant award is $10,000 per community and may support single or multiple project locations. While matching funds are not required, they are encouraged and positively considered during the review process. Funding may cover costs such as artist fees, equipment, materials, and project installation but will not reimburse expenses such as permitting fees, food, or travel.

Applications must be submitted as a single PDF document via email by 4:00 PM on Thursday, February 27, 2025. Extensions may be granted on a case-by-case basis with prior approval. Required documents include a cover letter signed by the highest elected official in the applicant community, a five-page response to application questions, and at least three letters of support from community stakeholders. Application responses should detail the community's need for the project, a project description with location maps, and a budget and timeline. Applicants must also explain how their project promotes equitable access and supports underserved populations.

The grant selection process includes a short 15-minute video call with the review committee. Scoring criteria emphasize the applicant’s readiness to implement the project, community engagement efforts, and the project’s potential to address health equity concerns. Successful applicants must submit a final project report that includes before-and-after project data, such as pedestrian counts or traffic speed reductions.

For more information, applicants can visit the IDOH grants web page or contact Pete Fritz at 317-234-6808 or pefritz@health.in.gov.