| Shana Baker
presented an overview of selected FHWA programs
that can be used to leverage TCSP pilot program funds. To utilize these funds, grantees need to coordinate with the local MPO, or alternatively with the state DOT if the project is in an area with fewer than 50,000 in population and does not have an MPO. A unique feature of FHWA programs is that they are, in almost all cases, based on the "grants reimbursable" concept. Under this procedure, the state DOT incurs the initial costs and then bills the FHWA for payment under the applicable program. This differs from most FTA programs, which send funds to a designated recipient (usually a transit operator). Each state has an FHWA Division Office that can be contacted for clarification or guidance of FHWA procedures. FHWA funds are administered through both formula programs and discretionary programs. FHWA formula programs distribute funds to states on an annual basis according to a calculation provided in law under TEA-21. The formula takes into account population, the state's total contribution to the Highway Trust Fund, a minimum guaranteed level of funding, and various other factors. There are seven major formula programs: Interstate Maintenance Program, National Highway System Program, Surface Transportation Program, Highway Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation Program, Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, Recreational Trails Program, and Metropolitan Planning. Three specific formula programs related to TCSP include:
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Transportation Enhancement (TE) Program -- Each state administers its own program with guidance from FHWA. The purpose of the TE program is to assist communities to attain social, cultural, aesthetic and environmental goals. Every state must reserve at least 10 percent of its Surface Transportation Program funds for designated transportation enhancement activities. Proposed TE projects must demonstrate a relationship to surface transportation.
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Recreational Trails Program -- As with the TE program, each state administers its own program. The Recreational Trails program provides funds to the states to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both motorized and nonmotorized recreational trail uses. Trails may be used for hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, equestrian use, and cross-country skiing. The maximum federal share attributable to the Trails program (from FHWA) is 80 percent. However, funds from other federal programs may be used for the matching share. A "soft match" (credit for donations of funds, materials, service, or new right-of-way) is permitted from any project sponsor, whether a private organization or public agency.
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Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality (CMAQ) Improvement Program -- The CMAQ program provides seed funds for transportation projects and programs in non-attainment and maintenance areas that reduce transportation related emissions. States with no non-attainment areas can use CMAQ funds if they are able to demonstrate or prove an emissions benefit. CMAQ funds are accessed through the local MPO, or the state DOT if the project is in an area under 50,000 in population.
Discretionary programs differ from formula programs in that there is no legislatively mandated distribution formula. FHWA administers 12 discretionary programs, of which TCSP is one. The others include: Bridge; Corridors and Borders; Ferry Boat; Innovative Bridge Research and Construction; Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS); ITS Commercial Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment; Interstate Maintenance; Public Lands Highways; Scenic Byways; Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act Program (TIFIA); and Value Pricing.
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