Safe Routes to School (SRTS) – Illinois Funding Cycle: The Illinois Department of Transportation announced a new 2023 Funding Cycle for the Safe Routes to School Program. Both infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects will be available beginning August 1 through October 2. The non-infrastructure program will have significant changes this cycle, and more information will be released.
The SRTS Program is a reimbursement program. Infrastructure grants require a 20% local match. Grant awards last cycle were between $25,000 and $250,000. Projects must be located within 2 miles of a school. Preliminary engineering (PE) and Right-of-Way (ROW) costs will not be funded.
Interested applicants can learn more about the program, prepare for the funding cycle, and meet with IL DOT Safe Routes to School staff by registering for one of the Special Program Assistance Conferences (SPAC) and scheduling a one-on-one appointment. More information can be found here: IL Safe Routes to School Program. The closest SPAC locations are in Peoria (June 6-7) and Dixon (June 13-14) https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050A4EABAA29ABF94-spac28 for IL DOT District 2.
Bi-State offers technical assistance to member governments seeking to apply to grant programs such as SRTS. Assistance is on a first come, first serve basis based on staffing availability. If interested, member governments are encouraged to contact Bi-State staff at (309)793-6300.