Arkansas Transportation Alternatives Program Grants

ARDOT Opens Grant Applications for Transportation Alternatives and Recreational Trails

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has announced that grant applications for the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) are now available.

These programs offer federal funding to local public agencies for projects that enhance pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and develop recreational trails.

Eligible TAP projects include:

  • On-road and off-road trails for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Sidewalk improvements, traffic calming measures, and speed reduction initiatives.
  • Pedestrian and bicycle crossing improvements.
  • Safe Routes to School projects.
  • Public awareness campaigns and outreach programs.

The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) is a federal funding initiative designed to support community-based projects that enhance the transportation experience beyond traditional roadways. Established under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), TAP funds projects such as pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, trails, safe routes to school, and scenic byways. The program aims to improve mobility, safety, and accessibility while promoting healthier, more sustainable transportation options. Administered by state departments of transportation, TAP encourages local governments and organizations to apply for grants, fostering partnerships that prioritize innovative, community-driven solutions to transportation challenges.

Eligible RTP projects include:

  • Improvements to motorized, non-motorized, and multi-use trails.
  • Development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities.
  • Trail linkages.

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a federal assistance program that provides funding to states for developing and maintaining recreational trails and trail-related facilities. Established in 1991 as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA), RTP supports a wide range of trail projects, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle trails. The program is funded through federal gas taxes paid by off-highway vehicle users and is administered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). RTP emphasizes community involvement, requiring that 30% of funds be used for non-motorized trails, 30% for motorized trails, and 40% for diverse trail uses, ensuring a balanced approach to trail development and accessibility.

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Funding for both programs is available on a reimbursable basis and cannot be used for highway improvements.

Informational Seminars:

The Arkansas Highway Commission will host virtual seminars to provide detailed information about TAP and RTP requirements and responsibilities:

  • Wednesday, February 19, 2025
  • Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Application Deadline:

Applications for both TAP and RTP must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Motorized RTP Projects:

The Department maintains an ongoing open application cycle for Motorized RTP projects. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

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For more information and to access application materials, please visit:


All photos are courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. 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!

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