Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP)
The Transportation Alternatives Program is one of the main sources of federal funding available through NHDOT that communities can access to improve sidewalk networks, bicycle routes, rail trails and other safety improvements for people walking and riding bicycles.
TAP is a reimbursement program wherein communities can access up to 80% federal funding for local projects. Project sponsors must provide a minimum of 20% non-federal matching funding. Approximately $5.2 million in federal funding is typically available in each two year funding cycle that opens in the spring of even numbered years (2014, 2016, 2018). The funding round that would have opened in spring of 2020 was delayed due to COVID19 and conducted in the winter and spring of 2021.
The overall purpose of TAP is to foster non-motorized transportation infrastructure that is safe, in good physical condition, accessible, and capable of reducing traffic congestion. TAP awards will range from a minimum of $400,000 ($320,000 Federal) to a maximum of $1,250,000 ($1,000,000 Federal) supporting projects, although communities can use local or other funding sources for more expensive projects.
In December 2020 NHDOT initiated the fourth funding round of the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). Letters of Interest were due to NHDOT by February 5th and full proposals by March 19th. Proposals were reviewed and ranked by MPO staff, the MPO Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and MPO Policy Committee. The two applications received in the region are linked below along with their regional rankings.
- Rye Town Center Complete Streets (Ranked #1 by MPO) ($925,000 total with a $740,000 proposed TAP share
- Salem Cluff Road/Braemoor Woods Connector Sidewalk (Ranked #2 by MPO) ($650,000 total with a $520,000 proposed TAP share)
MPO Regional Ranking Transmittal to NHDOT
Note that in order to receive TAP funding, municipalities must appoint a project manager who is a town/city employee to complete training on NHDOT’s Local Public Agency (LPA) grant management process. An LPA certification workshop is anticipated for spring of 2021. See NHDOT’s Local Public Agency (LPA) Certification page for more information.
For further information contact Scott Bogle at (sbogle@therpc.org) or 603-658-0515; or go to the
