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, made available through the Federal Highway Administration’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and administered by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), will support a range of community-centered transportation initiatives.
The projects eligible for this funding include multi-use paths for pedestrians and bicyclists, as well as other efforts that connect communities, enhance quality of life, protect the environment, and support local economies. Funding is open to local governments, transit agencies, natural resource or public land agencies, tribal governments, and regional governmental entities focused on transportation or recreational trails. In partnership with these organizations, school districts, metropolitan planning organizations serving urbanized areas with populations under 200,000, regional transportation authorities, and non-governmental organizations may also participate.
Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the significance 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.”
Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez of NYSDOT highlighted the focus on accessible travel options: “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.”
State Senator Jeremy Cooney added his support: “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.”
Projects will be chosen through a competitive process based on criteria such as public benefit, project type and significance, cost-effectiveness, geographic balance within the state, eligible funding source alignment with climate goals outlined in New York’s Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act. Each TAP award will range between $500,000 and $7 million per project.
NYSDOT will fund up to 80 percent of eligible project costs; sponsors must provide at least a 20 percent match. Eligible expenses include planning; design or engineering services; right-of-way acquisition; construction; and construction inspection.
Applications are being accepted until March 12, 2026. Additional information about program guidelines can be found at https://www.dot.ny.gov/tap-cmaq.
The Department encourages interested parties to apply before the deadline.
