By Trish Svoboda

Applications for the spring 2024 round of the Cost Share Program, administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation, are currently open. Since its launch in 2019, the program has allocated nearly $140 million to Kansas communities.

The initiative offers financial support to local entities for construction projects aimed at enhancing safety, utilizing state funds to augment overall transportation investments, and enhancing transportation systems in both rural and urban regions across the state. This marks the 10th round of projects to receive funding under the program.

“Cost Share funding benefits communities of all sizes by helping needed transportation projects become reality,” said Michelle Needham, KDOT Economic Development Programs Manager. “This program provides urban and rural areas with numerous ways to improve transportation, generate economic growth and create job opportunities.”

All types of transportation projects qualify for consideration, encompassing roadway (both on and off the state system), rail, airport, bicycle/pedestrian, and public transit initiatives. Proposed projects should include transportation advantages and should not be eligible for other KDOT programs. The current round of grant funding is allocated a total budget of $9 million, with a maximum award of $1 million per project.

A webinar providing information about the program is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 20, at 10 a.m. During the webinar, details regarding the application process will be covered, and attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions. To register for the webinar, go to: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wrPjPSOcQzSMRF4cRYXtvw.

The deadline for applications is March 21. Information and the application link are on KDOT’s website – http://www.ksdot.org/CostShare/CostShareProgram.asp. Applications must be completed online, and a sample PDF application will be available for preview. Please contact Needham, michelle.d.needham@ks.gov, with any questions.