The Small Multimodal and Economic Resiliency Grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Transportation, is part of the Revitalizing Main Streets program. This grant aims to enhance active transportation safety and strengthen connections between people and their main streets and central economic hubs. The program is designed to encourage physical activity and improve local economic vitality across Colorado by funding infrastructure improvements that facilitate walking and biking. The grant is available to various entities, including local governments and educational institutions, and has a funding range from a minimum of ten thousand dollars to a maximum of two hundred fifty thousand dollars.

The primary purpose of this grant is to promote active transportation and healthy lifestyles through enhancements to downtown areas, mixed-use centers, and community gathering spaces. The objectives include supporting economic development, increasing business opportunities, and fostering innovative uses of public spaces. Additionally, the grant aims to ensure safe access for all modes of travel, providing mobility for residents of all ages, incomes, and abilities, particularly for vulnerable users.

Funding from this grant can be utilized for a variety of active transportation infrastructure improvement projects that are considered "shovel ready," meaning they can be completed within a year from the execution of the grant contract. Eligible expenses include construction and materials costs for projects such as sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian improvements at intersections, landscaping buffers, and the activation or construction of downtown plazas. Other eligible expenses encompass multimodal amenities like pedestrian lighting, benches, trash bins, restrooms, bike racks, and bus stop shelters, as well as traffic calming public art features.

To be eligible for this grant, applicants must be one of the following: local governments, business improvement districts, councils of governments acting on behalf of a local jurisdiction with proof of support, or universities and colleges. This broad eligibility allows a range of organizations to apply, fostering community engagement and development.

The application process requires a minimum match amount of ten percent of the total project cost, which emphasizes the importance of community investment in these initiatives. Interested applicants should prepare to address specific application questions that will evaluate their project proposals against the grant's objectives and criteria.

Evaluation criteria for the grant will focus on how well the proposed projects align with the goals of enhancing active transportation, supporting economic development, and improving community access. The timeline for the grant application process includes a deadline for submissions on October 30, 2024. It is essential for applicants to adhere to this deadline to be considered for funding.

For further information regarding the grant, potential applicants can visit the Colorado Department of Transportation's website or contact them directly via email or phone. This grant represents an opportunity for communities across Colorado to enhance their infrastructure and promote a healthier, more connected environment for residents and visitors alike.