The Rural Task Force (RTF) Program is a funding initiative administered by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to provide federal dollars for infrastructure improvements in rural counties. Specifically, it serves counties with populations under 400,000, covering 78 of Michigan’s 83 counties. These funds are allocated exclusively for projects within their respective geographic areas, supporting both road and transit capital projects. The program aims to enhance transportation infrastructure in rural communities, improving access and mobility while fostering economic development.

The program is funded through two primary sources: the Surface Transportation Program (STP) Rural, which is dedicated to improving the federal-aid highway system, and the Transportation Economic Development Fund (TEDF) Category D, which focuses on building an all-season road network. These funding streams allow local rural agencies to address critical infrastructure needs by upgrading roads and transit systems. The funding decisions and project selection process are managed by the Rural Task Force in each region, which includes equal representation from county road commissions, cities and villages with populations under 5,000, and rural transit providers.

Eligible projects must fall within the scope of improving transportation infrastructure. This includes road reconstruction, resurfacing, transit capital projects, and investments that contribute to the long-term sustainability of rural mobility networks. Funding is competitive, and applicants must adhere to program guidelines and selection criteria to receive funding approval.

Local agencies seeking funding through the RTF Program must coordinate with their respective Rural Task Force for project planning and submission. Applicants typically include county road commissions, small municipal governments, and rural transit agencies. Projects undergo a selection and approval process, ensuring equitable distribution of funds across eligible regions.

Key deadlines for applications and funding cycles are outlined within the program’s guidance documents. The program operates with a structured workflow that includes application submission, review, and approval by the Rural Task Force. Prospective applicants should refer to the latest program guidelines, funding allocations, and submission requirements available on the MDOT website.

For assistance, applicants can contact the program managers, Brian Stark and Heather Bowden, for more information on eligibility, submission guidelines, and funding allocation processes. Additional resources, such as maps, workflow charts, and amendment procedures, are also available to aid applicants in preparing their funding requests.