ITEP Grant Resources

See below for resources related to IDOT’s Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) funding opportunity.

2024 Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP)

In 2024 the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) will be open beginning of August through September and provide $140 million in state and federal funding for walking, biking, and trail projects around the state.

Through the Illinois State Physical Activity and Nutrition Program and funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Active Transportation Alliance and Illinois Public Health Institute (IPHI) are partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to help build the capacity of communities to successfully apply for ITEP funds.

Please join us for our 3-part webinar series this summer to learn more about the grant program and application process.

This page will be updated as new recordings and resources become available. Additionally, below are webinars recordings and answers to frequently asked questions about ITEP.

 

2024 ITEP Webinar Registration

  • Webinar Part 1: ITEP basics, eligibility criteria, what’s new, and best practices
  • Webinar Part 2: Scoring, application walk through, Q&A with IDOT staff
  • Webinar Part 3 – Q&A with IDOT staff

 

2024 ITEP Resources & Support

  • The 2024 ITEP call for projects will be open from August 1, 2024 8 am CST to September 30, 2024 5 pm CST with $140 million in available funding.
  • The Active Transportation Alliance is offering addional application support to 5 to 10 communities, including reviewing and providing feedback on project narratives.
  • Depending on staff capacity, the following engineering firms are able to offer pro-bono support to some high-need and low-capacity communities (updated list in 2024) in need of assistance including creating cost estimates or developing your project scope. Many of these firms can also brainstorm and provide general advice to local communities or are available for hire. View the list of engineering firms here.
    • If you work for an engineering firm that can provide pro-bono support and you are not listed on the above list, please take our Engineering Firm Survey.
    • Please note, providing pro-bono application support does NOT guarantee a firm will be selected for paid work. It also does NOT mean that the project sponsor can skip the Quality Based Selection (QBS) process. Because ITEP uses federal funding, QBS must be followed for any services that will ultimately be granted funds by the awards.
  • Previously awarded projects:
  • See below for the FAQ about ITEP.

 

Previous ITEP Webinar Series (recordings)

 

ITEP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

To easily find what you’re looking for, we recommend searching this page (Control+F) for keywords relevant to your question.

FAQ Categories: General Grant Information, Sponsors vs. Applicants, TIP Requirements, Government Resolutions, GATA Requirements, Attachments & Supporting Documents, Application/Consultant Support, Local Match, Reimbursement, Cost Estimates, Land Acquisition, Application Score, Community Score, Project Eligibility (General, Detailed)

Acronyms

  • ADA – American Disabilities Act
  • BDE – Bureau of Design and Environment
  • BLRS – Bureau of Local Roads & Streets
  • COG – Council of Government
  • FHWA – Federal Highway Administration
  • IDOT – Illinois Department of Transportation
  • IDNR – Illinois Department of Natural Resources
  • ITEP – Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program
  • MPO – Metropolitan Planning Organization
  • MUTCD – Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
  • NACTO – National Association of City Transportation Officials
  • NEPA – National Environmental Policy Act
  • SRTS – Safe Routes to Schools
  • QBS – Quality Based Selection
  • RPC – Regional Planning Commission
  • TIP – Transportation Improvement Program

 

General Grant Information

Q: Where can I find the new ITEP Application Guidelines?

A: ITEP Guidelines for Cycle 16 (2024) are posted on the ITEP website here.

Q: Where is the community mapping tool located?

A: The community mapping tool is in the ITEP application portal. My Community Score tab is located on the left-hand menu. As the first step in your application, you must complete the project limits on that map. Details on how to access and use the mapping tool are provided in the ITEP application portal instructions under the question mark symbol.

Q: What is the schedule for awarding ITEP funds?

A: The call for proposals will be open from August 1 to September 30, 2024. Every project selected to receive ITEP funds will receive an award notification letter within a few days of the funding announcement, expected in the spring of 2025.

Q: How long do we have to complete the project?

A: If you are awarded funds, your award notification letter will contain specific deadlines for each respective project based on phases of work approved. All awarded funds must be obligated within 4 years from the award notification letter date. If any deadline cannot be met, funds may be rescinded, and the project will be considered dropped unless an extension is requested and approved. For more information see the ITEP Guidelines.

Q: How much state and federal funding is available through ITEP?

A: Total funding available through ITEP in 2024 is $140 million – this includes $40 million in federal funding and $100 million in state funding. State funding dollars can only be applied to walking, biking, and ababdoned trail to trail projects (Categories A and B in the ITEP Guidelines).

Q: Is the $3 million cap the maximum award amount or the maximum cost of the entire project?

A: Up to $3 million can be awarded to a project. This amount would include ITEP funding and match assistance, if eligible. The project can also be awarded funding as a portion of a larger project that costs more than the maximum award amount.

Q: If your previous application was not selected for funding is there a way to have it reviewed to improve this time?

A: Yes! Contact DOT.ITEP@illnois.gov to set up a meeting with ITEP staff about how you can improve your previously unsuccessful application.

Q: Are funds divided into silos of funding for walking, biking, and rail to trail projects or do they all compete against each other for funding?

A: No, they are not divided into silos. Each project is scored on its own merit, regardless of the funding source. However, ITEP state funds can only be used for bike/ped facilities, conversion of abandoned rail corridors to trails and local match assistance.

Q: If your application includes multiple project elements, can IDOT elect to fund just a portion of your project?

A: No, funds are awarded for the full amount requested.

Q: What are the major differences between ITEP and Safe Routes to School (SRTS) grant? Can an entity apply for both ITEP and SRTS?

A: Yes, you can apply for both ITEP and SRTS. The call for projects for ITEP is open on even numbered calendar years while the call for projects for SRTS is open on odd numbered calendar years. The SRTS program has a lower maximum award amount of $250,000 per infrastructure project, with the project required to be within a 2-mile radius of a school. SRTS project eligibility also allows for smaller-scale improvements.

In general, the major differences between the two programs are the eligible activities. Applicants can make comparisons on the SRTS and ITEP webpages. Also, SRTS is school/students focused whereas ITEP is focused on the entire community. Specific eligibility questions may be directed to DOT.ITEP@illinois.gov or to DOT.SafeRoutes@illinois.gov.

Q: Who was awarded ITEP funding in the last cycle? 

A: Past project awards can be found on the ITEP website.

Q: My project has not been funded in the past. Who can I talk to see what I am doing wrong?

A: Contact IDOT’s ITEP team at DOT.ITEP@illnois.gov if you have questions about why your past application was not awarded and receive tips to improve your application in the future.

Q: What are the NOFO and CSFA numbers for the 2024 application?

A:

  • 2025 NOFO ID Number: 25-1000-2848 
  • 2025 CSFA: 494-00-1000 

Q: Who should we connect with at IDOT if we have a specific question about our project that touches a state route?

A: Contact your local District ITEP Coordinator. A list of contacts is included in ITEP Guidelines and ITEP website.

Q: Will there be another ITEP cycle in two years?

A: Yes, funding for the program is expected in the summer of every even year.

 

Sponsors vs. Applicants

Q: What is the difference between the project applicant and project sponsor?

A: The applicant is an individual completing the ITEP application. The applicant can be any representative. The applicant should be experienced with the ITEP grant process and familiar with the project. This representative will be the primary point of contact for all communication relating to the application.

The sponsor is an eligible entity with taxing authority (e.g. municipality, county government, forest preserve) authorized through SAM.gov (show proof of active UEI) to accept a federal grant. GATA non-exempt sponsors must be registered in the Grant Accountability & Transparency Act (GATA) grantee portal. The point of contact for the sponsor must be the senior representative authorized to accept financial liability for the grant. The sponsor has the responsibility for implementation of the project. See the ITEP website for IDOT’s list of eligible sponsors.

Q: Can the applicant be a private consultant for the sponsor?

A: Yes, a private consultant can apply for ITEP on behalf of the sponsor (see explanation above).

Q: Is it better to have city staff or an engineering consultant apply for the ITEP grant?

A: It is entirely up to you who acts as the applicant for the grant. An applicant can be any representative who completes the ITEP application on behalf of the sponsor.

Q: Does the applicant have to manage the project, if awarded funding?

A: The project sponsor listed in ITEP application is responsible for managing and implementing the project.

Q: If you submit multiple applications, can one entity be awarded for more than one project?

A: Yes, one sponsor could be given multiple awards. If more than one application is submitted on behalf of a project sponsor, each application will be reviewed and scored based on its own merit, regardless of category or relationship to any other application submissions.

In general, try to focus your efforts on producing high-quality application(s) that focus on your top priorities. As much as possible, combine eligible project elements into one application as long as the project cost falls under the $3 million cap.

Q: What does it mean for a ‘large’ MPO to partner with the project sponsor?

A: MPOs representing urbanized areas over 200,000 in population may partner with an eligible sponsor to provide project implementation for the sponsor. Agreements would need to be completed authorizing the MPO as a partnering agency.

Q: If the state already owns the right-of-way and has done preparatory engineering and grade work for a bike trail, will the state fund the project?

A: Please reach out to your District local roads office to determine if this would or would not be the case. A contact list is provided on the ITEP website.

 

TIP Requirement

Q: What are the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) requirements?

A: If you are in an MPO or RPC, let them know you are applying for ITEP funding and get a letter of support to include in your application.

After award announcements are made, follow up with your MPO/RPC to ensure your project is included in the TIP. This is a requirement for any project awarded ITEP funds. Your project doesn’t need to be included in the TIP before award announcements are made.

If you are not in an MPO or RPC, you can disregard the TIP requirement.

Q: Is a locally funded Phase I Engineering study required to be included in the TIP for design approval?

A: Only phases of a project that are utilizing federal funds are required to be in the TIP.

 

Resolution Requirements

Q: Is a Government Resolution needed to show commitment to the local match?

A: Yes, a Resolution of Financial Commitment from the project sponsor committing to the local funding required to complete the project is one of the required application attachments. The sponsor must commit to the local match only.

Example language to include in the Resolution: “The municipality will pay a required local match, as determined by IDOT.” Or something more general such as “The municipality is applying for a grant under the terms and conditions of the State of Illinois and shall enter into and agree to the understandings and assurances contained in said application.” The local match commitment will generally not exceed 20% for any project. Land acquisition is reimbursed at 50%, with 50% required local match.

Additionally, in the application, you will need to indicate via two check boxes at the bottom of the Project Cost page whether you are able to complete the project if you receive no match assistance or receive only half of the match assistance.

Q: Is there a template or example of an appropriate government resolution?

A: Yes, please see this example of a Government Resolution for your ITEP project

Q: For projects that connect towns, what is a best practice for gaining the proper support from the town that the path would be connecting to?

A: Request a letter of support from the neighboring town to show their interest in and support of the project. The neighboring town would also need to be aware of and support any ROW issues.

Q: We had resolutions of financial commitment for our project from a couple years ago. Can we use these with the current application? 

A: No, ITEP requires a current, up to date Resolution of Financial Commitment submitted with your application. 

Q: If our proposed project is a continuation of a larger scale project that the Board approved and understood that it had to be broken out in several projects, is a revised resolution required for each project? 

A: Yes, an updated Resolution of Financial Commitment is a required attachment for your ITEP application. 

Q: If 3 communities are filing a joint application, with one municipality the lead agency/applicant, will an Intergovernmental agreement (IGA) executed by all 3 municipalities suffice as the Resolution?

A: No, ITEP requires a Resolution of Financial Commitment from the lead sponsor agency committing to the entire local match required to complete the project. Only one agency will be held fully responsible.

Q: Does the local match commitment need to be documented somewhere?

A: Include these details in your Resolution of Financial Commitment. Example resolution language:

“The municipality will commit to provide local match as determined by IDOT and fund ineligible costs of the project.” Or something more general such as “The municipality is applying for a grant under the terms and conditions of the State of Illinois and shall enter into and agree to the understandings and assurances contained in said application.”

The local match commitment will generally not exceed 20% for any project. See the FAQ under Local Match for more details. 

In the application, you will need to indicate via two check boxes at the bottom of the Project Cost sheet whether you are able to complete the project if you receive no or only a half of match assistance. 

Q: How do we write a Resolution of Financial Commitment when the city is hoping for the state to pay the full match?

A: The language in your resolution should match the level of match commitment expressed in the application. If a community is not able or willing to commit to a required match, and IDOT determines that community is eligible for a full match assistance, suggested language for this scenario could include: “The municipality will pay up to xx% of the total project cost, as determined by IDOT.” 

Q: Is there a template or example of an appropriate government resolution?

A: Yes, please see this example of a Government Resolution for your ITEP project.

 

GATA Requirements

Q: What is GATA and is it required?

A: The Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) was enacted to create uniform administrative requirements, cost principles, and audit requirements for federal pass-through awards.

Amendment to GATA provides that the GATA requirements established under the Act do not apply to awards made by IDOT to local public agencies (LPAs) for the purposes of a transportation projects utilizing state funds, federal funds, and both state and federal funds. LPAs are subject to 2 CFR 200 requirements.

Universities/colleges, state agencies, non-for-profit entities are not exempt from GATA. It is strongly recommended to complete pre-award requirements as early as possible before the application period begins. Instructions on completing GATA pre-award requirements can be found on the Illinois Governor’s Office of Management and Budget GATA website. Additional guidance can be found in IDOT GATA Guide for Grantees. Questions regarding GATA should be emailed to DOT.GATA@illinois.gov.

Q: If you are a community who already has a GATA number and your account is up to date, do you need to complete any pre-award requirements?

A:  Yes. See GATA Pre-award Requirements in the GATA Guide for Grantees. Local public agencies (LPAs) are exempt from GATA requirements.

Q: Our GATA is completed; however, there was no  Programmatic Risk Assessment (PRA). Is that something that needs to be done in addition to the prequalification and ICQ?

A: Yes, sponsors will need to complete the Programmatic Risk Assessment (PRA) form as part of the IDOT and GATA pre-award requirements. You can find the PRA form here. 

 

Attachments & Supporting Documents

Q: To whom should letters of support be addressed?

A: Letters of support can be addressed to IDOT or the project sponsor. 

Letters of support (LOS) should be summitted as attachments in your application. It may be helpful to create a LOS template and provide it to stakeholders which they can edit and send back to you. If addressed to IDOT, you can include the follow address at the top of the LOS template: 

Illinois Department of Transportation
Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program
2300 South Dirksen Parkway, Room 308
Springfield, Illinois 62764

Q: Can we provide links to planning documents instead of exhibits of them?

A: No, IDOT does not want to see links. Please include any relevant sections of planning documents as attachments to your application. The ITEP application portal has a maximum allowance of 35MB for attachments so please be thoughtful about what additional information you attach to your application. 

Q: Is a summary or a portion of a planning document okay to submit

A: Yes, a summary of a plan is fine to submit. Reference to the original planning document should be included with the summary.

Q: How do we demonstrate we are going to be responsible for maintenance. Does this go into a resolution, a letter, or the application?

A: Address maintenance directly in the application.

Q: We are not certain whether ROW is going to be needed so how should we handle this?

A: Answer the question as if you will need an additional ROW. A field will pop up where you can explain any uncertainties.

Q: Is the Resolution of Financial Commitment one that should be passed prior to the application submission or is it only needed if the project is accepted for funding? 

A: Resolution of Financial Commitment is one of the required attachments when you submit your application. It is a budget resolution that states ‘we commit to provide local match and fund ineligible costs of the project.’ Here’s is a sample resolution you can use as a template. 

Q: Will the application allow you to start and pick up later where your left off?

A: Yes, you can stop and start again. The application portal has built in an auto-save mechanism that will save your data every five minutes. Always use the “Save or Next” button after entering or editing data before you leave the page.

Q: If a city is proposing to construct a path across multiple municipalities (roadway spans three municipalities), what information is necessary from the other jurisdictions? Will a letter of support suffice? If the applicant plans to pay for the improvements, is anything else required from the other municipalities?

A: IDOT wants to know you are working together and are in communication with the other municipalities. Only one municipality can be a sponsor, referred to as a lead sponsor. Ask other municipalities to provide a letter of support. You could also ask each municipality for a resolution that shows they’re support.

Q: Can you give specific direction regarding how to obtain an IDOT letter of allowance?

A: Contact your local District ITEP Coordinator to obtain a letter of allowance if your project is on or adjacent to State right-of-way. This letter should identify your project and give IDOT approval to complete planned improvements.

Q: Is a consultant allowed to submit an application for a sponsor or does it have to come from the project sponsor? As a consultant we planned to compile and mail everything from our office for the sponsor.

A: Yes, the consultant can submit an ITEP application on behalf of their client.

Q: How do you submit photos with your online application?

A:The ITEP portal has a maximum allowance of 35MB for attachments. This may mean you need to reduce the size or resolution of your photos. If you have multiple photos, one trick shared by webinar attendees is to add the photos to a Word, PowerPoint or Publisher document (to include captions, if you’d like) and then convert the file to a PDF. If you’re attaching a high-resolution Detailed Project Map, export it to a jpeg then follow the steps above to reduce their file size.

Q: How do you know if your files have been successfully uploaded to the online application portal?

A: Unfortunately, there is no easy way to see if your files have been uploaded. If you are concerned about it, contact DOT.ITEP@illinois.gov, and they can verify what has been submitted. 

Q: What if we are still waiting to receive letter of support (LOS) from various groups?

A: We recommend sending reminders and checking back in with the groups you are waiting on. If you haven’t already, provide a LOS template to these groups. The template should outline what your project is and the benefits it would provide the community or region. 

If you received a letter of support AFTER you submitted your ITEP application, and application submittal deadline is still open, contact DOT.ITEP@illinois.gov to unlock your account. You will be able to attach LOS to your application. 

Q: What maps need to be submitted with my application?

A: A Detailed Project Location Map is one of the required attachments. The Detailed Project Map must be attached – it must show the limits of the project as well as any other information that will aid IDOT in identifying your project. 

Q: Is it possible to modify the community scoring map once an application has been started? The proposed project limits have changed slightly and I would like to update the community scoring map without redoing the entire application, if possible.

A: Yes. Go back to ‘My Community Score’ within the ITEP application portal and click ‘New Community Map Score’. You can draw a new map and save it under a new name. Within the ‘General Information’ section of the application, select your new map name under the ‘Community Score’ dropdown and be sure to save your changes.

Q: Do we need certified minutes for the public meetings, or can we just use documentation at the time of the event?

A: If this is regarding public support then no, certified minutes are not required. 

If this is talking about once a project is in PE I, then the project sponsor should discuss with their district BLRS field engineer and follow the public involvement guidance in the BLRS manual. 

Q: Is there a link to crash data that can be shared?

A: Contact your county DOT or your IDOT district ITEP Coordinator to obtain this information. You can obtain some IDOT crash data online here.

Q: Can Google Maps’ Street View be used to take photographs of the area?

A: Yes. Check the date on the map to make sure the photo is showing current conditions.

 

Application/Consultant Support

Q: Are consultants able to help on a pro-bono basis?

A:Yes, you can use pro-bono services for grant and proposal support (e.g., cost estimates, develop the project scope). However, you cannot count these services as an in-kind donation towards the grant’s local match requirement.

Important Note: Providing free application support does NOT guarantee a firm will be selected for paid work. It also does NOT mean that the project sponsor can skip the Quality Based Selection (QBS) process. Because ITEP uses federal funding, QBS must be followed for any services that will ultimately be granted funds by the ITEP award.

Q: What requirements do engineering consultants need to meet to work on an ITEP funded project? 

A: Engineering consultants must be selected using Qualifications Based Selection (QBS) procurement method, if any of the firm’s work will be compensated with grant funds. Federal or State QBS requirements do not apply if a community or agency is paying for engineering with their own funds. 

See Chapter 5 of the Local Streets and Roads Manual for more details about IDOT’s QBS procedures. Building architects and consultant engineers for local-sponsored projects are not required to be pre-qualified by IDOT. If local agencies have their own pre-qualification requirements, engineering firms should follow them. 

Q: Has IDOT updated any of its design requirements? 

A: In 2022, IDOT updated Chapter 17 of the BDE Manual’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodations chapter. The bicycle facilities selection table (17-2a) now shows protected and buffered bike lanes as facility options. There is also discussion of flexible guidance and allowing for engineering judgment to determine the most appropriate facility if the parameters in the table are not possible.

If a community or agency wants to propose a facility that is included in NACTO or another well-respected design guide, contact your District ITEP Coordinator prior to submitting an application. IDOT needs to ensure the design is fully compliant with the MUTCD to utilize federal funding for the project. 

Q: How often do you update the list of engineering firms offering pro-bono support?

A: The list of engineering firms is updated when we learn about a new engineering firm who is able to provide support. If you work for an engineering firm that can provide pro-bono support and you would like to be added to the list, please take our Engineering Firm Survey.

Q: Can I put together my own cost estimate for the application?

A: Putting together an accurate cost estimate and project plan for your application is very important and affects your application score. Applicants should use an engineer or engineering firm for this step to ensure the work is feasible and meets IDOT and FHWA criteria for grades, widths, ADA, etc.

For reference, there are two IDOT cost forms: BDE 213 (estimate of cost) and BLR 11510 (contract estimate of cost).

IDOT has said successful applications have good cost estimates. For projects that win funding, this additionally helps the sponsor avoid issues, unexpected cost increases and delays once the project begins.

Q: Can state or county agencies help high-need communities with application support such as cost estimates or other technical assistance? 

A: Possibly – it varies by region. Contact your MPO, RPC or IDOT district staff to ask what kind of guidance or support they can offer. For Chicagoland applicants, contact your local council planning liaison.

Q: What support can the Active Transportation Alliance provide? 

A: ATA will be hosting three informational webinars to help sponsors to understand ITEP requirements and prepare a strong application. ATA is also offering additional 1-on-1 grant support to 5 to 10 communities in environmental justice areas or who are capacity constrained.

In general, IDOT staff, MPO/RPC planning liaisons/staff, and engineering firms are your best source for additional technical assistance on applications.

Q: How many hours of work is typically needed to complete an ITEP application?

A:  Based on feedback from prior applicants, we estimate that it takes approximately 40 hours to prepare and submit a typical project application.

 

Local Match

Q: What is the local match requirement?

A: The ITEP grant provides reimbursements of up to 80 percent for Phase I and Phase II engineering, utility relocations, construction, and construction engineering costs. The grant provides up to 50 percent reimbursement for right-of-way/easement acquisition costs. Street lighting is reimbursable at 50 percent and pedestrian lighting is reimbursable at 80 percent.

The required local match is the responsibility of the project sponsor unless sponsor qualifies for the match assistance based on high-need criteria. The match assistance is based on the Community Score and set on a sliding scale of 0 percent, 10 percent (half of local match), or 20 percent (full local match).

Q: For right-of-way and easement acquisition costs that require a 50 percent local match, what would be match requirements for the high need communities?

A: Depending on the Community Score, the sponsor may qualify for a 0, 10 (half of local match) or 20 (full local match) percent local match assistance for this category.

Q: If the county has agreed to do the engineering and the construction labor for a project, can this be used as our local match?

A: It depends. Please reach out to your District local roads office to verify if this would be eligible. A contact list is provided in ITEP Guidelines and on ITEP website.

Q: Because ITEP is made up of both federal and state funds, are other federal and state funds available for the local match?

A: Yes, the ITEP Guidelines have a list of eligible sources that can be used for the local match.

Q: Do you have any suggestions for creative ways to meet the local match requirement?

A: In addition to the local match suggestions listed in the ITEP Guidelines, the following ideas could help project sponsors with limited budgets meet their local match requirements:

  • Partnering with your neighbors or other agencies can help you reduce your cost share by splitting the reimbursable costs and local match with your partners.
  • Check with your Council of Government or Mayors to see if they could contribute towards your local match.
  • Reach out to Foundations or local businesses for local match donations.

Q: A sponsor was awarded the maximum $2 million on a previous ITEP funding cycle for an eligible project. Could they apply again for the same project to request additional funds up to the new $3 million cap?

A: Applying for the same project/same project phase is not allowed. However, it is allowable to apply for a different segment or a new phase of the same project.

Q: If you indicate in your application that you can proceed without a reduced local match, are you still eligible for a local match reduction based on community need?

A: Yes, you will still be eligible for a local match assistance.

Q: Will an application be significantly impacted if the applicant is not prepared to complete the project if they receive no state match assistance?

A: Possibly. You will be contacted first to make sure you meant to select this box or IDOT may suggest you apply again in a future grant cycle.

Q: Does the amount of funds you request affect your score? For example, do you score higher if you are requesting less than the $3 million cap? Or is the fund request irrelevant to scoring?

A: No, it does not. The amount of funding you request is unrelated to your score.

Q: In the application cost estimate table, do we put the planned local match in the local only column?

A: No, the match will be calculated for you. The local only column is where you enter any costs that are ineligible for funding. This amount does not count towards the required match amount. Any ineligible items are the responsibility of the project sponsor and should be separated when you are preparing the detailed cost estimate.

For additional information on ineligible items consult the IDOT District Enhancement Coordinator in your area or submit your question to DOT.ITEP@illinois.gov.

Q: If the county is providing the engineering and construction labor, would that be part of the match or do we put it in the “local” column of the budget/cost estimate form?

A: Please include this in the local only column.

Q: If lighting is justified and used for nighttime transportation purposes to a transit station, what is the required local match – 50/50 or 80/20?

A: See the ITEP Guidelines for details about lighting. Street lighting and pedestrian lighting have different reimbursable rates: 

  • Street lighting, federally reimbursable at 50%, is defined as lighting for the street and must be co-located with an alternate transportation facility. Ornamental lighting would be eligible in this category. 
  • Pedestrian lighting, federally reimbursable at 80%, is defined as lighting for an alternate mode transportation facility and must not be co-located with a street. 

Q: Should the federal share and local match be 80/20 in the detailed cost estimate even if this would result in an amount larger than the $3 million ITEP cap?

A: ITEP project funding is capped at $3 million per proposal, including match assistance if qualified. The sponsor will be responsible for the match.

Q: If Federal Flexible Match funds are used, are these funds always applied to the ITEP local match at an 80% rate even if the source of those FFM funds were state grant funds used at a 100% rate (no match required)?

A: See Section 4-1.13 in the Bureau of Local Roads and Streets Manual or contact your District ITEP Coordinator; list of contacts is on the ITEP website.

Q: Should already expended monies for engineering be included in the application anywhere?

A: These amounts cannot be included in the cost estimate. Previously expended funds for engineering or any other item(s) that are part of the project should be documented in the application’s Project Status page, under Project Readiness. These costs cannot be used as local match as they were expended before the project was awarded.

Q: Since private universities are not eligible applicants, can they contribute toward the local match for an eligible sponsor? If so, how should that be detailed in the application (cost estimate, resolution, agreements)?

A: Yes, they can. It would be considered a private donation. Since this would be a separate arrangement, it should be included in the local’s share and can be noted on the application.

 

Cost Estimates

Q: How do you include contingencies and inflation in your cost estimates?

A: Contingencies and inflation are NOT reimbursable expenses as a separate line item in your cost estimates. Instead, you should roll inflation and contingency costs into the individual unit costs or items listed in your cost estimate.

Q: What if we have applied for other grant funding for a project that includes part of our ITEP project proposal or is otherwise overlapping, but is not the exact same scope?

A: State this in your application. For the overlapping area, make sure the other funds are allowed by IDOT as matching funds (see the ITEP Guidelines for details or contact your District ITEP Coordinator; contact list is on the ITEP website).

Q: Should our cost estimates include a 20% local match even though we won’t know our match amount until after awards have been announced?

A: Yes, correct, assume a 20% local match in your cost estimates. If you end up qualifying for a 0% or 10% local match, your cost estimate will be adjusted later.

Q: The cost estimate example in the ITEP Guidelines has a column for “federal share”, but isn’t some of the federal share (80%) also from the state now? What should be included here?

A: The column is referring to the costs eligible for federal reimbursement and that remains at 80% (or 50% for ROW and street lighting) for both federal and state funds. All agreements should be written to assume we are seeking federal reimbursement for eligible costs.

Q: Does the cost estimate need to include all phases of a project if you are only applying for Phase I or II Engineering?

A: Cost Estimate needs to include the costs for phases you only intend to fund through this application. To help show the magnitude of the project, include a description of the entire project in the application under Project Description. 

Q: If Phase I Engineering is complete and paid for by the local agency, does it need to be added to the cost estimate?

A: No, it does not have to be included in the cost estimate. On the Project Status page under Project Readiness, answer questions on project readiness accordingly.

Q: Regarding the cost estimate example, the application says “IDOT will not accept this form as a submission for the ITEP program!” Is it okay to use the application sample once it is filled out or is there another form that needs to be used?

A: The sample is intended as an example of the form you will see in the online application. Use the format of the sample application to create your summary table cost estimate and enter the information into the form in the online application.

Q: Can rolling the contingency into the unit price cause the cost estimate to be considered inaccurate?

A: You can roll inflation and contingency costs into the individual unit costs on the estimate, but contingencies must not be listed as a separate line item.

 

Reimbursement 

Q: What costs does a community need to pay up-front?

A: The project sponsor is responsible for paying for preliminary engineering, land acquisition, and utility relocation costs up-front. Such project costs are reimbursed by IDOT in accordance with a joint funding agreement.

Construction costs can either be paid by IDOT or the project sponsor. Selecting to go through the IDOT construction letting is often easier and preferred in many cases. It relieves the project sponsor from having to pay up-front for what are often very costly construction activities. Construction contracts that go through the IDOT letting process must follow the Bureau of Construction billing procedures.

Approval is needed for locally let projects. The local sponsor would pay the full amount to the contractor as the project progresses and submit documents and requests for reimbursement to IDOT for the federal or state share of the project

The basics of IDOT’s billing process are covered in Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction.

Q: Are funds reimbursed along the way during a project or after a project is completed?

A: IDOT will reimburse you along the way as you submit implementation documents. Reimbursement is processed either once a month or twice a month depending on the size of the project.

Before any work qualifies for federal reimbursement: 1) all costs must be approved for funding; 2) authorization must be received from the FHWA prior to any work beginning; and 3) any required agreements must be in place. IDOT will issue a notice to proceed once these conditions have been met that will signal your ability to begin spending grant funds.

Q: How often do reimbursements need to be submitted to IDOT?

A: There is a reimbursement process that the sponsor will need to follow. Per the joint agreement, IDOT requires the first invoice to be submitted within 6 months of federal authorization and subsequent invoices submitted at intervals no greater than 6 months. Please contact your District ITEP Coordinator to learn more. A contact list is provided in ITEP Guidelines and ITEP website.

Q:  Given that ITEP is a reimbursable grant program, how can higher need communities with no cash on hand still participate?

A: Unfortunately, project sponsors need operating cash on hand to pay for engineering project costs up-front. We have knowledge that some communities entered into an agreement with their local MPO or COG to borrow money for the local match which they later pay back. Fortunately, IDOT can cover up-front construction costs if the project can be included on a state letting. This option should be discussed with the District ITEP Coordinator.

Q: By reimbursable, does that mean the city must be able to front 100% of the project cost, and then request reimbursement for all but the local match?

A: Yes, with one exception described below. The project sponsor is responsible for paying upfront for preliminary engineering, land acquisition, and utility relocation. The project costs are then reimbursed by IDOT in accordance with a joint funding agreement. 

Either IDOT or the project sponsor can pay for construction costs. If you selected your project to be let by IDOT (which is often preferred), IDOT would pay for construction costs. The sponsor will be responsible for the match only. If the project sponsor chooses to pay for construction costs, the sponsor will be responsible for paying up front and will be reimbursed by IDOT in pursuant to a joint funding agreement. 

IDOT will reimburse you along the way as you submit implementation documents. IDOT requires the project sponsor to submit bills at least once every 6 months. Reimbursements are typically processed either once or twice a month depending on the size of the project. 

Q: Are administration expenses for the application process or grant management reimbursable?

A: No, these expenses are not reimbursable.

Q: Will IDOT reimburse for costs related to preparation of Phase I engineering?

A: No. Project work done or completed prior to federal authorization of funds for that project will not be reimbursed.

 

Land Acquisition

Q: What rules does land acquisition need to follow? Can land acquisition happen prior to being awarded funding?

A: The ITEP Guidelines state the following: “When a project requires the acquisition of private property or a real estate interest in order to be completed, the sponsor must adhere to the IDOT’s Land Acquisition Manual. For more information, on the requirements, please contact the District Land Acquisition Engineer through the District ITEP Coordinator for your area.”

Q: If land acquisition is included in a project in a very high need community, is it possible that ITEP will pay all of the local match?

A: The ITEP grant will provide half or full local match assistance for right-of-way and easement acquisition costs, if a community is considered high-need based on its Community Score.

Q: Can a project be considered if it is dependent on an easement from an overhead utility provider that has not yet been finalized but is in process?

A: Yes. The utility provider needs to be made aware of the possibility of the project. Make sure to document in your application the initial contact and any progress that has been made.

Q: Can a project be considered if it will be located on leased land?

A: Yes, however a lease must have at least a 20-year term or longer to ensure that the minimum useful service life of the project is met.

Q: If a portion of the land needed for the project must be donated because of ethics rules, can that donation be counted toward the local match?

A: If land was donated before applying for ITEP, this cannot be counted towards your local match. The ITEP Guidelines state: “Right-of-way donations from a third party can be credited toward the sponsor share (match) of the construction of a project. Donations must be from a private owner to the project sponsor for the purpose of the enhancement project. Donations must occur after the project report is approved for enhancement funding and prior to having the construction advertised on a letting. Land acquired previously or that is already owned by the project sponsor cannot be used as a donation credit.”

Q: Are there restrictions of type of right-of-way (ROW) and whether it is local/county/state controlled?

A: No restrictions, but if the required ROW is not under the jurisdiction of the sponsor, a letter of understanding or similar documentation must be obtained from the other agency to ensure the project can be constructed should the application be selected.

 

Application Score

Q: Is there a “rubric” for the scoring criteria?

A: The items listed below are all areas of interest that are referenced throughout the application and will be taken into consideration for scoring. Your application and narrative must address each of the following scoring criteria, as best as possible: 

  1. Eligibility 
  2. Strength of transportation relationship 
  3. Connectivity to existing facilities/Linkage 
  4. Project meets category intent 
  5. Project readiness 
  6. Status of Land Acquisition 
  7. Status of Phase I Engineering 
  8. Public benefits and accessibility 
  9. Cost effectiveness 
  10. Safety Improvements 
  11. Project support/local commitment 
  12. Prior sponsor investment 
  13. Inclusion in a local, state, or regional plan 
  14. Planning and coordination 
  15. Project sponsor capacity and past performance 
  16. Application completeness/information provided 

Q: Where will this score be tabulated once some or many of these factors are identified?

A: You will know your Community Score right after you map your project. 

Regarding the Application Score, after the application submittal cycle closes, ITEP staff will complete initial review to determine eligibility, e.g., all required information and documentation is submitted, project is in eligible category etc. All eligible project applications will be assigned to statewide reviewers for a more comprehensive review based on established review criteria listed above.

The reviewers consist of MPOs, IDOT, and IDNR staff. Each application will be reviewed by the team of reviewers and each application will be independently scored by 8-10 people. The score will be a simple average of all reviewer scores. A Selection Committee will review the candidate projects in ranking order from highest to lowest and discuss the cut off score for approval based on the available funding. 

Q: Will you score any higher if you submit/attach in progress Phase II Engineering Plans?

A: No, but IDOT wants to know it is in progress.

Q: What type of weight will IDOT put on Phase I Engineering in scoring?

A: Your application will score higher if PE I and/or ROW acquisition have been completed or are in progress. In general, the closer your project is towards completion, the higher it will score.

Q: Will points be given for public involvement? Should we get started with public meetings?

A: Yes. In your application, indicate public involvement activities you have completed (including meetings, focus group conversations, surveys, etc.) to demonstrate public awareness and support for the proposed project. This is an area of emphasis for IDOT and Federal Highway Administration.

Attach summaries of surveys and any public meetings showing all comments. It is recommended to have a project-specific public informational meeting to gather public input on the project before you submit your application. If you have not yet conducted public outreach for your project, do so before the ITEP application cycle begins on August 1, 2024.

Q If a sponsor is unable to commit to the 20% local match, how should this be reflected in the application score?

A: In the application, you will need to indicate via two checkboxes at the bottom of the Project Cost page whether you are able to complete the project if you do not receive match assistance or receive only half of the match assistance. You should also indicate the local match level the sponsor is willing to commit to in the Resolution of Financial Commitment.

Q: Is there any favorable consideration for the use of sustainable materials like warm mix asphalt or energy efficient facilities like solar lighting?

A: Your selection of sustainable/energy efficient materials will not affect the score of the application, but you should indicate your intention to use these materials in your application narrative.

Q: What agencies are involved in the review of ITEP applications? 

A:Eligible project applications are assigned to 8-10 reviewers statewide for a comprehensive review based on established review criteria. The reviewers are statewide IDOT, MPO, and IDNR staff. Active Transportation Alliance and Illinois Public Health Institute are NOT reviewing ITEP applications.

 

Community Score

Q: Does the Community Score factor into the Application Score or is it solely factored into the local match determination?

A: The Community Score is not integrated into the Application Score. It is a rating of high-need community to determine local match assistance to meet the statutory requirement that 25% of the funds are awarded to high-need communities.

Q: How does IDOT define a high need community?

A: High-need communities will be determined using IDOT’s Community Mapping tool in the ITEP application portal. The tool will generate a Community Score for each project based on four factors: population, percent below poverty level, median household income, and tax per capita. Each factor will receive points using Census Bureau tract data with poverty level and median household income receiving the highest weight in the final score calculation.

Because the score is based on Census Bureau tract data, the Community Score may vary within a community depending on your project’s location. 25% of total ITEP state funds will be dedicated as local match assistance to qualifying projects that have the highest Community Scores.

Q: Is the Community Score based on data from census tracts or the overall community?

A: The Community Score is based on Census Bureau tract data and includes all census tracts within a 0.5-mile buffer of the project limits. If the project goes through multiple tracts, the tract with the highest need will determine the overall score.

Q: Is median income determined by median household income or median income by employee?

A: Median Household Income

Q: Will the Community Score use 2020 Census data?

A: Yes, the Community Score currently uses 2020 Census Data.

Q: Is the community size the total population of the census tracts within 1/2 mile of project (as opposed to the total population of the municipality)?

A: Yes, it is the sum of the population identified by census tracts within a 0.5-mile buffer around the project limits.

Q: Does the score take into consideration data from external sets like Strava to focus on number of cyclists on a route?

A: No, it does not. This data could be included in the application to show usage, interest, and need for a facility.

Q: Is there any way that a project can account for visitors to the project area for the community calculation? We are a very small community that has a state park with a reported 450,000 annual visitors.

A: This information will not be factored into your Community Score. This data could be included in the application to show usage, impact, interest, and need for a facility. 

Q: Is there a link for the community mapping tool?

A: The mapping tool can be found within IDOT’s ITEP application portal which you can find here: https://apps.dot.illinois.gov/ITEP/login.aspx

 

Project Eligibility (General) 

Q: Do projects need to be on Federal Aid Routes?

A: No, projects do not need to be on Federal-aid Routes.

Q: Do projects need to follow federal guidelines?   

A:Yes, projects must follow all federal and state requirements for design and construction.

Q: Are recreational projects eligible for funding? 

A: Not exclusively. Projects cannot be solely for recreational uses – e.g. a loop trail within a park is ineligible because it does not provide an alternative transportation route from one destination to another. Your project must provide a mode of transportation for people to travel to destinations such as workplaces, businesses, schools, universities, shopping centers or other communities.

Q: Are Forest Preserve paths eligible? 

A: If the paths are just for recreation, they are not eligible. If the paths connect destinations, they are eligible.

Q: Does my project need to be named in an existing local or regional transportation/bikeway plan to be eligible?

A: If your project is named in a plan, it demonstrates that the project was vetted by the community and aligns with community needs and other planning efforts – be sure to include these plans in your proposal.

If a project cannot specifically be found in a plan, you can instead show there is a goal, need, or intention stated in an established local or regional plan to improve walking and biking.

Q: Where do I look to determine if a pedestrian, bicycle, or trail project is part of an established plan? 

A: At the municipal level, check for pedestrian and bike plans, comprehensive plans, downtown development plans, park improvement/green space plans, and Safe Routes to School plans. Your municipal administration should be able to assist.

At the regional and county level, check long-range transportation plans and transportation improvement programs. Reach out to staff at your MPO, RPC, or DOT for assistance if needed. You can also check the Illinois Bicycle Transportation Plan for projects.

Q: Does the MPO have to vet a project or can it be submitted by the sponsor without review and approval by the MPO?

A: In urbanized areas with a population over 50,000, the Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) should definitely be aware of your proposal, and should review your project to ensure consistency with regional transportation plans, policies and programs.

If awarded funding, the project sponsor is responsible for ensuring that approved projects within an MPO area are included in the most current Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for that MPO. It is also in your best interest to have your MPO or RPC provide a letter of support for your proposal.

Q: Can you apply for multiple phases at once? 

A: Yes, you can include multiple project phases in your proposal. For example, you could bundle Phase I Engineering, Phase II Engineering, and Construction into one application as long as the total project cost does not exceed $3 million. Applications that include construction usually score higher than PE I only or PE I/II applications as this ensures the project will most likely move towards completion.

Q: Would a project just for Phase I Engineering qualify?

A: Yes, but it would not be a competitive, high scoring application.

Q: Should I apply for Phase I for the entire length of a project or Phase I/II for a smaller segment of this project?

A: Typically, an application for PE I/II will score higher than a PE I only project because it moves the project farther along the process to completion. If you apply for a segment of a project, the application should describe the full scope of the project to help in the overall scoring of the project.

Q: If a bike path or trail goes through two municipalities, can they apply together or should they apply separately?

A: It is recommended to apply together. IDOT appreciates regional collaboration and projects that benefit multiple communities. By partnering, you can also reduce your cost share by splitting the local match with your partner agency. Jointly sponsored projects must identify a lead sponsor (see below for more details on selecting a lead).

Q: If a project covers different areas of jurisdiction (e.g. school district, city park district and township), should the overall project be submitted as separate applications for each area or combined? 

A: Combine cross-jurisdictional projects into a single application and select one lead project sponsor.  It is the responsibility of the lead sponsors to obtain support from and coordinate with all affected jurisdictions.

The lead project sponsor should be an agency responsible for a transportation facility such as a public road or street. IDOT recommends choosing a lead that is familiar with NEPA requirements and has experience working with IDOT and FHWA.

Q: Can one project apply under multiple ITEP categories or are we limited to one category per application? 

A: Yes, one category per application. If your project falls into more than one category, choose the one that encompasses the majority of your project’s goals or that is most relevant.

Q: For Chicago projects, who should community-based ideas go through to apply for ITEP funding? 

A: Check with your Alder and ask them to talk to the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT). A project sponsor must be a local entity with taxing authority such as a local or regional government, transit agency, park district, forest preserve, or schools district. CDOT applies for many federal and state grants every year and staff will have a better sense if a given project is a good fit for ITEP or another funding source.

Q: Given the maximum ITEP award is capped at $3 million per project, should proposals try to ask for the full funding amount? 

A: Ask for what your project requires. In 2022, there were 213 project applications submitted, 73 awarded funding, and the average funding amount per project was just under $2 million.

Q: How can I be sure my project in eligible?

A: Please review ITEP Guidelines. Detailed questions and answers related to project eligibility are listed below. Eligibility may be determined on a case-by-case basis. If you still have questions after reviewing the ITEP Guidelines and these FAQ, contact the District ITEP Coordinator in your area. A list of contacts is provided in the ITEP Guidelines and ITEP website. Or contact ITEP staff at DOT.ITEP@illinois.gov.

 

Project Eligibility (Detailed)

Q: If you need to reduce the footprint of the roadway by removing/relocating curb and gutter or removing pavement in order to place a trail along a roadway, are those eligible elements?
A: If the curb and gutter is germane to completing the trail project, then it would be eligible. Roadway work is not eligible.

Q: Can an entire complete streets plan, including roadwork or reconstruction of the road, qualify for funding?
A: You can use ITEP funding for eligible pedestrian and bicycle improvements listed in the ITEP Guidelines. Roadwork (i.e. resurfacing) that support cars, trucks, and buses is ineligible for ITEP funds. The enhancement program funding is intended for the design and construction of bikeways for pedestrian and bicycle users. Any extra costs associated with the design and construction of the street for users other than pedestrians and bicyclists are the project sponsor’s responsibility.

Q: Can striping and curb extensions as part of a road diet at an intersection be included in a shared use path project to increase safety?
A: Possibly. Talk to your District local roads office to share details about your project proposal.

Q: In regards, to the stipulation requiring ADA to be addressed on all four corners of an intersection, is this required even when there are no existing or planned pedestrian facilities on the opposing side of the road?
A: All four quadrants are not required (i.e. if the project goes from NE to SE quadrants only). IDOT will clarify in the August 24, 2022 webinar.

Q: Is IDOT able to make significant pedestrian sidewalk/bicycle trail changes to a state route? Are any types of roads/arterials off-limits for IDOT to make pedestrian/bicycle changes to?
A:  Talk to your District local roads office to share what you are proposing on a state route. IDOT will help you in the design process. 

Q: Will bike share ever be considered for funding eligibility in the future?

A: TBD – stay tuned for more details.

Q: Are standalone sidewalk projects eligible?

A: Yes, if you are building new sidewalks or replacing/reconstructing existing sidewalks to make them more accessible and ADA compliant (e.g., adding crosswalks, curb ramps, etc.). Maintenance and repair of sidewalks such as repairing broken or cracked sidewalks are ineligible for funding. 

Q: We have a 4-foot sidewalk that is not ADA compliant and in poor shape after 25 years. Could we use this grant to widen it to 5 feet and bring it up to ADA requirements?

A: Yes. In this case, you would replace the existing sidewalks with 5 feet sidewalks that are up to current ADA standards.

Q: Are pedestrian bridges eligible?

A: Yes. Pedestrian or bicycle structures or bridges that cross rivers, railroads and roadways are eligible for funding as long as it connects other bicycle/pedestrian facilities or provides a mode of transportation from one destination to another. However, applicants should consider that these types of projects generally require a considerable amount of time for coordination with other parties. That coordination should be underway before application submittal to score well.

Q: Would a pedestrian project combined with lighting be eligible? 

A: Yes, you can bundle eligible project elements together. In your application, pedestrian or bicycle lighting must be justified to show people are using the space at night for transportation.

Q: Are signs directing people to a transit station eligible?

A: If directional or regulatory signage is for people walking and biking, this type of signage would be eligible as part of a larger bicycle/pedestrian project. Signage, however, cannot be a stand-alone project. In some cases, this type of project may be a better fit for other funding sources such as Chicagoland’s Regional Transit Authority’s Access to Transit grant.

Q: Can ITEP be used to fund wayfinding on Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) land?

A:  Yes, but you would need to coordinate with IDNR and make sure your project includes more than just wayfinding which is not eligible as a stand alone project. For this type of project, we recommend looking into other grant opportunities such as IDNR’s Bike Path Grant Program – check the IDNR’s grant page for details.

Q: Are traffic signals eligible for funding if part of an overall project? 

A: The installation of a new traffic signal is considered ineligible for ITEP funding. However, modifications to existing traffic signals to add pedestrian signals (e.g. pedestrian signal heads, countdown timers, push buttons, audible signals, etc.) are eligible.

Q: Does the overall project length affect the project score – for example, a ½ mile project versus a four-mile project?

A: No, project length is not necessarily important. Your project should be enhancing the transportation network by helping more people connect to destinations by foot or bike.

Q: Are roadwork costs to accommodate on-street bicycle improvements eligible?

A: You can use ITEP funding for on-street bicycle accommodation improvements. However, road work (i.e., resurfacing) that support cars, trucks, and buses are ineligible for ITEP funds. The enhancement program funding is intended for the design and construction of facilities for alternative modes of transportation. Any extra costs associated with the design and construction of the facilities for users other than pedestrians and bicyclists are the project sponsor’s responsibility. 

Q: Will roadway improvements qualify if you are eliminating a parking lane to provide green space for the construction of a bike path and/or sidewalk?

A:  Yes, ITEP will fund the design and construction of facilities for pedestrian and bicycle users, including when roads diets are performed to accommodate bikes and pedestrians. Road diets qualify the removal of parking areas to add space for bicycle and pedestrian users. This includes providing adequate buffering of bike and pedestrian facilities from travel lanes as can be seen in these two primary locations (both BDE and BLRS Manuals):

  1. BLRS Manual, Chapter 42-3.03(d)(2)(c) Reconfigure or Reduce On-Street Parking: If this option is considered, a parking study may assist in determining impact. Potential solutions include eliminating parking on one side of the street, peak-hour restrictions, or converting diagonal parking to parallel parking. Additional parking spaces may be provided for on side streets or in an off-street parking facility. 
  2. BDE Manual, Chapter 17-2.02(g) Road Diets and Lane Width Reductions: Bicycles also can be accommodated on a roadway by marking or re-marking the pavement to increase the width of the curb lane or to add bike lanes. For example, it may be feasible to remove parking, possibly in conjunction with providing off-street parking. 

Q: You mentioned resurfacing of streets is not eligible. However, if an on-street bike lane is proposed as part of a bike path it may require rehabilitation of the street to gain appropriate slopes, striping, etc. Would these improvements be covered by ITEP funds?

A: While the bike lane would be eligible for ITEP funding, the roadwork itself would not be eligible and would require a different funding source. 

Q: What kind of street lighting would be covered under ITEP?

A: Email DOT.ITEP@illinois.gov to discuss in more detail. See ITEP Guidelines for details on lighting. Street lighting and pedestrian lighting have different reimbursable rates: 

  • Street lighting, federally reimbursable at 50%, is defined as lighting for the street and must be co-located with an alternate transportation facility. Ornamental lighting would be eligible in this category. 
  • Pedestrian lighting, federally reimbursable at 80%, is defined as lighting for an alternate transportation facility and must not be co-located with a street. 

Q: Would bike path signage throughout a community be eligible for ITEP?

A: Yes, bike path signage is eligible for funding and can be submitted as a stand-alone project. However, this program is highly competitive and a small project consisting of only signage would likely not score well. 

Q: Is there a specific definition for a shared-use path for “recreation” versus “transportation”? Is a specific mileage to a destination required?

A: Your project must connect people to destinations to show that it will be used for transportation and not just recreational purposes. Destinations might include workplaces, businesses, health centers, schools, universities, or shopping centers. The more destinations your project reaches, the higher your application will score. 

Regarding distance, in the past, an application was submitted for a 14-mile path to connect two small communities and help more people reach their local jobs. Because this path will be used for something more than recreation, it is considered viable. 

Q: Is there a width of sidewalk considered to be adequate?

A: Sidewalks with a parkway buffer should be a minimum of 5 feet. If the sidewalks are at the back of a curb, they should be 7 feet. Bike paths and shared-use paths should be 10 feet wide.

Q: Are streetscapes to improve downtown pedestrian lighting and ADA compliance allowed as a project type?

A: These project elements could be included as either a pedestrian facility project or a streetscaping project. The sponsor should review the elements of their proposed project and the criteria for the categories and determine which category covers the majority of their project.

Q: How do you decide if your project in a bike/ped project or a streetscaping project?

A: The sponsor should review the elements of their proposed project and the criteria for the categories and determine which category covers most of their project.

Q: Can a municipality submit multiple applications?

A: Yes

Q: Is replacing a pedestrian bridge eligible or considered maintenance?

A: Replacement of a deficient structure is considered construction rather than maintenance and therefore would be eligible.

Q: Is the $3 million funding level the project maximum or can project be over this amount if the local community will pay the difference?

A: The project funding is capped at $3M per proposal. For projects that cost more than $3M, you could either find other funding sources or applying for ITEP funding over multiple cycles. In your cost estimates, you can include the full cost of the project – if selected, your project would be capped at $3 million. 

Q: May a municipality apply on their own behalf or must the regions RPC/MPO apply for them?

A: A municipality should apply on their own behalf. An MPO/RPC is not allowed to apply as the sponsor lead.

Q: Is this link open? https://apps.dot.illinois.gov/ITEP/login.aspx

A: Yes

Q: Could an application request that an award is solely made up of state funding? Large projects may want to pursue additional grants from federal sources. Curious if ITEP could be used as match in such a case.

A: No, application cannot request to be funded with state funds only. ITEP funds can be used as one of the funding sources for the project, but not as a match to federal funds.

 

Other

Q: In regards to plans, if a local ped/bike plan stated a need for bike lanes along a boulevard, but the application instead proposes a road diet and multi-use path along the same boulevard, is this okay? The idea/possibility of a road diet came after the ped/bike plan was approved.

A: Yes, it is okay. As long as you can show your project satisfies the intent of the plan.

Q: Please clarify the “State as Sponsor” concept under Eligible Applicants.

A: The State or IDOT can be a project sponsor at the request of an eligible project sponsor.

Q: Could you please explain the break between PE I and PE II? Our agency generally considers PE I to be up to 30% or 40% design and up to NEPA activities (as needed). Does that sound reasonable to IDOT staff?

A: IDOT thinks this sounds reasonable but recommends checking in with your District ITEP Coordinator.

Q: If the PE I work was funded by the municipality itself (no federal funds used), and therefore no Project Development Report (PDR) was prepared, do we just leave this answer blank or write N/A?

A: Questions regarding documentation of PE completion should be directed to the appropriate District ITEP Coordinator. 

Q: Can you describe what is expected in the question seeking the predicted usage of the facility?

A: Estimated number or bicycle/pedestrian users of the facility. Estimate usage based on the community population around the project location. Here are a few ideas: 

  • Check if any group or agency (e.g., forest preserve, park district, municipality) has done counts of people walking or biking on nearby bike/ped/trail networks. 
  • Are there any transit stations the project would connect to? What are the ridership numbers at that station? 
  • Check Strava’s Heat Map to see if cyclists and/or runners are using the route:  https://www.strava.com/maps/global-heatmap 
  • What percentage of community members don’t have access to a car or don’t drive (youth, older adults)? Check American Community Survey data. 
  • Use proximate resident or employment numbers within X miles of the proposed facility: “Up to XX,XXX village residents live within a 1-mile walkshed of the proposed facility, with another XX,XXX living within a 2-mile bikeshed.” 

Q: We own the parcels that we will improve with ITEP funds. We have coordinated with the local city owned (DOT managed) sidewalks–do we need proof of easement at the time of application?

A: No, you do not. Mark in your application that you own the parcels. It may help to get a letter of support from the city that expresses their support of the project.

Q: Can you apply for ITEP funding if you already have STP funding for the project since ITEP covers more phases? We would give back the STP if we won the ITEP funding.

A: Check with your MPO on giving back STP money procedure. 

Q: Our project will connect with a large $57 million approved IDOT expansion project with a timeline we have no control over. Would it be desirable or possible to start our project if funded and simply connect the final access points to the new road construction when it is finally done by IDOT? We hear construction in 2-3 years but there may be unavoidable pandemic delays.

A: Yes, it should be fine but check on details with your District’s ITEP Coordinator. 

Q: Our agency typically holds annual public meetings for all Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs), rather than for individual meetings. Will this “all CIP public meeting” suffice for the public meeting requirement?

A: Yes, that should suffice, so long as the project is presented during that meeting.

Q: Is stating “There will be night use” sufficient justification for lighting?

A:  No. Pedestrian or bicycle lighting must be justified to show people are using the space at night for transportation. Justification could include providing details about a nearby transit station or bus stop that runs at night, details about local employers that have night shifts or local schools with evening events, the prevalence of pedestrian and/or bicycle crashes after dark, or existing safety issues.