New York State has announced the availability of $97.4 million in funding for projects aimed at improving active transportation and promoting healthy lifestyles. The funds, provided through the Federal Highway Administration’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and administered by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), will support community-centered initiatives such as multi-use paths for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the broader goals of these investments. “By prioritizing community-centered transportation projects across the state, New York is setting a national example for transportation that is not just greener and healthier, but also boosts local economies,” Governor Hochul said. “These smart investments underscore our commitment to affordable transportation alternatives and enhanced quality of life for all New Yorkers, while protecting the environment in communities across the Empire State.”
Eligible applicants include local governments, transit agencies, natural resource or public land agencies, tribal governments, and regional governmental entities focused on transportation or recreational trails. School districts, metropolitan planning organizations serving areas with populations under 200,000, regional transportation authorities, and non-governmental organizations may also apply if partnered with an eligible entity.
The competitive selection process will consider factors such as public benefit, project type, cost-effectiveness, geographic balance, and alignment with New York’s Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act. Projects must relate to surface transportation systems and be fully accessible to the public. Funding awards will range from $500,000 to $7 million per project.
NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez highlighted the program’s impact: “Through sensible policies that put a premium on all forms of transportation, Governor Hochul is providing New Yorkers with safe, community-centered ways to travel for work and everyday life, in the process enhancing the character and accessibility of localities. These are direct investments in affordable transportation solutions that allow communities to invest in projects that enhance transportation mobility and safety.”
TAP funds can cover up to 80 percent of eligible project costs; sponsors must provide at least a 20 percent match. Eligible expenses include planning, design/engineering services, right-of-way acquisition, construction, and inspection.
Examples of supported projects include infrastructure improvements for non-drivers’ safety and access to public transport; construction of turnouts or viewing areas; safe routes enabling children to walk or bike to school; facilities for pedestrians or bicyclists; conversion of abandoned rail corridors into trails; boulevard construction on former divided highways; community improvement activities such as historic preservation or vegetation management; and environmental mitigation efforts.
Applications are being accepted until March 12, 2026. Guidance materials are available at https://www.dot.ny.gov/tap-cmaq.
State Senator Jeremy Cooney commented on the importance of these initiatives: “A successful transportation system in New York is one that gives New Yorkers choice of how to get from Point A to Point B, including safe pedestrian and bike options. I want to thank Governor Hochul for embracing active transportation options and bettering the health of our communities.”
The NYSDOT aims to ensure a reliable system connecting communities while supporting economic well-being throughout New York State.
For more information about this funding opportunity or updates on travel conditions statewide visit www.511NY.org.
