The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has awarded $8.6 million for the 18 projects selected for inclusion in its Transportation Alternatives (TA) program for Federal Fiscal Year 2021. 

“Kansans value safety in all modes of transportation, which is why it is an important element of the new FORWARD transportation program,” said Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “I’m pleased that these projects focus on improving safety for pedestrians and children walking to school.”

KDOT received 32 applications from eligible project sponsors requesting over $22 million in federal funds. The applications for Federal Fiscal Year 2021 projects were received during an open application period from September through October 2019. The next call for projects is expected to be released this summer. 

“The high quality of applications for projects this year made the process especially competitive” said Jenny Kramer, KDOT State Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator. “Projects tied to local long-term transportation and/or bicycle and pedestrian master plans were especially strong because they demonstrated a commitment over time to promote transportation choices and make their communities bicycle and pedestrian friendly.”

KDOT evaluated each application and made selections based on criteria developed using input from various departments and external partners such as safety and network improvements, cost estimates, project readiness, public support and other factors. The total estimated costs for the 18 selected projects are over $13 million. Each project sponsor must commit to providing at least 20% of the cost of the project as a local cash match.