It’s time to encourage your local officials to pull out the bike plans, crunch some numbers, and start writing. Between now and Friday, June 17th, the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) is accepting grant applications for “community based projects that expand travel choices and enhance the transportation experience.”
Since the early 1990’s, ITEP has been the main funding source for new trails and bikeways in Illinois. In 2014, ITEP awarded $52.7 million for 71 projects. Approximately $29 million is available for this funding cycle. While that is still a drop in the bucket compared to need (and what we spend on highway projects), it’s a critical resource for making projects happen in these fiscally challenging times.
Ride Illinois and partners at the national level have worked hard over the years to preserve this federal program. Back in Illinois, our advocacy for fair and effective administration of these dollars has saved tens of millions for biking. Our list of ITEP funded projects is organized by congressional district because it helps lobbying efforts when we lead Illinois’ delegation to the National Bike Summit. We show elected officials how ITEP has transformed quality of life and transportation options in their backyards with projects such as:
We urge communities to submit applications. Whether you are a local advocate, a municipal planner, (or both!), don’t hesitate to contact us for advice about this and other grants. The more we can show demand for bicycle facilities, the stronger our voice is when advocating for the protection and expansion of ITEP and other funding resources.