The Arkansas Department of Transportation has opened the application cycle for the 2026 Transportation Alternatives Program and Recreational Trails Program, two major federal funding sources that help Arkansas communities build safer active-transportation networks and expand outdoor recreation opportunities.
For communities across the state, these programs often mean the difference between a great idea on paper and a project that finally gets built. Sidewalks, bike paths, trailheads, shared-use paths, accessible walkways, and long-distance trail connections have all come to life through TAP and RTP funding.
Understanding TAP and RTP
The Transportation Alternatives Program supports projects that expand transportation choice and safety. This includes sidewalks, bicycle facilities, shared-use paths, rails-to-trails conversions, lighting, and streetscape improvements that make it easier and safer for people to walk, roll, and ride. TAP generally funds 80 percent of project costs with a 20 percent local match.
The Recreational Trails Program is focused specifically on recreational trail development and maintenance. RTP provides funding for building new trails, rehabilitating existing trails, adding or repairing trailheads, improving access for hikers, cyclists, equestrians, off-road vehicle users, and other trail enthusiasts, and supporting trail linkages that strengthen local and regional outdoor recreation systems. RTP also typically requires a 20 percent match, and in some cases allows in-kind contributions.
Both programs are competitive, and eligible applicants include cities, counties, school districts, public land agencies, and qualified nonprofit organizations.
Where TAP and RTP Funding Comes From
Both programs are supported through federal transportation dollars that flow to states each year. The Transportation Alternatives Program receives funding from the Federal Highway Administration as part of the broader federal surface transportation program, and the Recreational Trails Program is funded through a set aside within TAP that is dedicated specifically to recreational trail development and maintenance. In Arkansas, Arkansas Department of Transportation administers both programs, reviews applications, and distributes funds to local governments, school districts, public land agencies, and qualified nonprofits. These federal investments help communities build projects that might otherwise be out of reach, strengthening active transportation networks and expanding outdoor recreation access statewide.
What These Grants Have Funded In Arkansas
TAP and RTP have a long record of shaping the outdoor recreation landscape of Arkansas. In recent years, ArkansasOutside.com has covered numerous projects supported by these grants, including:
Transportation Alternatives Program examples
- Expansion work on the Delta Heritage Trail, helping Arkansas State Parks continue building out one of the most significant rail-trail projects in the region.
- Improvements to the LOVIT ADA Watchable Wildlife Elevated Walkway, enhancing universal access in a popular section of the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail.
- Development of the Southwest Trail Access Point and Trailhead at Baseline Road in Pulaski County, strengthening access to the long-anticipated 60-plus-mile regional greenway.
- Support for Maumelle Pinnacles Conservation Area Trails Phase Two, helping Central Arkansas Water continue enhancing trail connectivity and recreation opportunities near Lake Maumelle.
Recreational Trails Program examples
- Improvements at the Lake Sylvia Recreation Area, expanding and restoring trails near this well-loved Ouachita National Forest recreation site.
- Rehabilitation efforts on the Arkansas River Trail in Burns Park, improving one of the most heavily used urban trail corridors in the state.
- RTP grants supporting the Crowley’s Ridge Gravel Trail in Clay and Greene counties, an emerging regional trail resource offering a mix of scenic rural riding and hiking opportunities.
- Across all communities, these grants help build the close-to-home recreation access that Arkansas residents and visitors value, while strengthening tourism, local quality of life, and outdoor industry growth.
Preparing For the 2026 Funding Cycle
With applications now open, local agencies and organizations interested in pursuing TAP or RTP funding should begin preparing early. Strong proposals typically demonstrate public support, clear project need, readiness to advance to construction, and long-term maintenance planning. Applications must be submitted by 4 p.m., Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Projects that improve safety, accessibility, community connectivity, or outdoor recreation opportunities tend to be the most competitive. Arkansas communities have consistently used these grants to make meaningful progress on trails and active transportation infrastructure, and 2026 is expected to continue that trend.
Local governments play a major role in deciding which walking, biking, and trail projects move forward for TAP and RTP consideration, so now is a good time for residents to reach out to their city and county officials and ask what projects they plan to pursue. Many communities are still shaping their priorities for the 2026 cycle, and hearing from trail users, cyclists, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts can help guide local decision making. A quick email or phone call can make a difference in ensuring that the projects you care about are included in the next round of applications.
Project applications and registration for both programs, including general project guidelines, may be obtained by visiting www.ardot.gov/TAP or www.ardot.gov/RTP.
ArkansasOutside.com will follow the application and award process closely and share updates when ARDOT announces the 2026 recipients.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
