MDOT Fiscal Year 2024 budget includes a one-time appropriation of $3.5 million intended to support quick-build projects with the purpose of making communities more walkable, bikeable and transit- and micromobility-friendly. The SSSG program is designed to help incorporated cities and transit authorities reconceive their streets not only as thoroughfares for vehicles, but also as civic spaces with a range of uses for all of us, no matter our age, ability or preferred ways of getting around.
SSSG is a new program and in order to be flexible while adhering to statutory language, we reserve the right to revise the information provided based on new information. This guidance is based on our best understanding at the moment to allow for creativity and to comply with statutory intent.
Learn more about SSSG program.
No. Statute outlines the only eligible applicants to be incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c.
Only incorporated cities and public transit agencies as they're defined in 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c are eligible applicants. Townships do not fall under that group and are therefore not eligible applicants. A township can cooperate with eligible applicants on projects provided the benefits are detailed under the program goals. You can refer to the program goals listed online as well as other resources located on the SSSG website.
Only incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c are eligible to apply.
No, there is no match required for the SSSG. Any match proposed for projects will not be a consideration for scoring.
These are state funds.
Applications must be submitted by an eligible agency. A consultant/MPO/etc. can assist the eligible applicant in preparing the application, but the application must be submitted by the eligible applicant.
No. Applications are tied to an e-mail address and each e-mail address can only be used once. A grant writer can draft the content for the applicant but the actual application must be submitted by the eligible agency and not a third party.
Yes, the profile or owner must be an eligible agency.
Yes, a city and its transit agency subject to 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c can each submit their own application. The application could be for different aspects of a similar project or completely different projects. If applying for different aspects of a similar project, each application should reference the other. Additionally, because WiseHive only allows one application per e-mail address, each application must be submitted by two different authorizing agencies: one for the municipality and one by the head of the transit agency.
Yes.
No. Only incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c are eligible to apply.
Yes.
Yes, if phase 1 is an eligible project for funding as a standalone project.
A public resolution is required when the applicant or co-applicant is an incorporated city. A letter of support is required when the applicant or co-applicant is a transit agency. If it is not possible for a city to submit a final resolution by the application deadline, a draft resolution can be submitted with the application. Applicants should be aware that an approved resolution will be required before grant award. An example resolution is posted on the SSSG website under the Resources tab. Applicants are encouraged to use the language noted in the example resolution.
No, but the applicant should have an understanding of the full scope of the project and estimated construction costs.
Yes there is a character limit. An example application depicting the character limit for each of the larger open ended question fields has been posted to the SSSG webpage under the Resources tab. The online application itself doesn't display the specific character limit, but it does stop someone from typing past the character limit. Therefore, it is probably prudent to draft the language in Word to ensure the points you want to get across are clear within the character limit. We want very concise and clear answers without extraneous and superfluous language. We are expecting a large volume of applications and we have limited time to review, contract, and get projects implemented. We want applications that are clear, compelling, and easy to review.
This is difficult to answer without knowing the full scope of a project and without having a completed application on file that demonstrates the project's purpose and use. As an example, a public bathroom on it's own would likely not be considered eligible. If it were to be located in a downtown pocket park, it is possible it could be eligible. If it were located adjacent to an eligible public plaza project with other public amenities as well as public programming, it would be eligible and also competitive.
The SSSG website has a list of ineligible projects under the Project Type tab, as well as examples of projects that would be eligible. Please keep these in mind while developing your project, along with the program goals (Innovative, Coordinated, Equitable and Accessible, Ease of Implementation, and Easily Understood). A submitted application should clearly document how the project is consistent with the intent of the program as well as the program goals.
Per the MDOT PowerPoint and guidance online, the following micromobility items are eligible: purchase of bicycles or other micromobility devices, docks or stations, and supportive technology.
MDOT does not intend for this to become a maintenance program, and prioritizes projects that expand or develop new accommodations. The SSSG website has a list of ineligible projects under the Project Type tab, as well as examples of projects that would be eligible. Please keep these in mind while developing your project, along with the program goals (Innovative, Coordinated, Equitable and Accessible, Ease of Implementation, and Easily Understood). A submitted application should clearly document how the project is consistent with the intent of the program as well as the program goals.
MDOT does not intend for this to become a maintenance or replacement program, and prioritizes projects that expand or develop new accommodations. The SSSG website has a list of ineligible projects under the Project Type tab, as well as examples of projects that would be eligible. Please keep these in mind while developing your project, along with the program goals (Innovative, Coordinated, Equitable and Accessible, Ease of Implementation, and Easily Understood). A submitted application should clearly document how the project is consistent with the intent of the program as well as the program goals.
The program guidance states that project is ineligible if the project is located in sensitive environments that could require extensive permitting and review by regulating agencies such as the Michigan Department of Resources (DNR), EGLE, State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), etc.
An application can be submitted but must clearly outline that the permitting of the project is underway and provide an approval and construction timeline that meets the timeline of the SSSG program.
It depends on the scope of the full project. MDOT does not intend for this to become a maintenance or replacement program, and prioritizes projects that expand or develop new accommodations. The SSSG website has a list of ineligible projects under the Project Type tab, as well as examples of projects that would be eligible. Please keep these in mind while developing your project, along with the program goals (Innovative, Coordinated, Equitable and Accessible, Ease of Implementation, and Easily Understood). A submitted application should clearly document how the project is consistent with the intent of the program as well as the program goals.
Yes, projects must meet all federal requirements per the ADA.
The program website states projects on private property are considered ineligible.
The program website states all projects that require property acquisition, or permanent grading easements or right of way, are ineligible.
Engineering for the purposes of developing an application is ineligible. If a grant is awarded, once the contract is signed and there is a notice to proceed, engineering costs become an eligible expense.
Possibly, if the application can demonstrate how this project meets the intent of the program and program goals (Innovative, Coordinated, Equitable and Accessible, Ease of Implementation, and Easily Understood). A submitted application should clearly document how the project is consistent with the intent of the program as well as the program goals.
If there is an existing public transit agency that serves that area, they would be the eligible recipient of the vehicle or bus.
Yes, so long as the project meets the goals of the program and doesn't result in the original area to be underserved.
Correct, design work/assessments are ineligible. The website program intent is to "support quick-build projects with the purpose of making communities more walkable, bikeable and transit- and micromobility-friendly. "
A connector sidewalk could potentially be an eligible project; however, if the project has already been awarded and is in process, it is not eligible.
Yes, so long as the project meets the program goals and is within the project budget. Refer to the SSSG website for more information.
No. If the project has already been awarded and is in process, it is not eligible.
Yes, projects located within the jurisdiction of MDOT must get the necessary permits and approval from MDOT to proceed.
Projects must align with the program goals of supporting public health, safe mobility and strengthened commerce. Eligible project elements are broad and must include elements from at least one of the project types listed on the SSSG website. Application and eligibility details can also be found on the site.
No; however, on the program website under the Resources tab there is a copy of the application for review and collaboration purposes available so possible applicants can see what might be required.
No; however, on the program website under the Resources Tab there is a copy of the application for review and collaboration purposes available so possible applicants can see what might be required.
A copy of the application for review and collaboration purposes is available on the program website along with a copy of the webinar slides presented.
No.
Yes. Projects must be constructed on public rights of way or land. For any project on land not under the jurisdiction of the applicant, the applicant must secure the appropriate approvals, permits and authorizations necessary to implement the project.
The program intents to fund/support quick-build projects with the purpose of making communities more walkable, bikeable and transit- and micromobility-friendly. Furthermore, per the program guidance, projects that require extensive permitting and approvals from state or federal agencies are unlikely to receive funding. Projects receiving TAP funds are subject to greater requirements and regulation and that can hamper quick-build and implementation projects.
The program's intent is to fund/support quick-build projects with the purpose of making communities more walkable, bikeable and transit- and micromobility-friendly. Furthermore, per the program guidance, projects that require extensive permitting and approvals from state or federal agencies are unlikely to receive funding. Projects receiving Trust Fund monies are subject to greater requirements and regulation and that can hamper quick-build and implementation projects.
Yes, but partnering this grant with federal funding is discouraged. It is the applicant's responsibility to understand all timing and implementation constraints that may exist. The program intends to support/fund quick-build projects with the purpose of making communities more walkable, bikeable and transit- and micromobility-friendly. Furthermore, per the program guidance, projects that require extensive permitting and approvals from state or federal agencies are unlikely to receive funding. Projects receiving federal funds are subject to greater requirements and regulation and that can hamper quick-build and implementation projects.
MDOT will have a scoring system based on points and how the project meets program goals and program intent.
MDOT will have a scoring system based on points and how the project meets program goals and program intent.
No. MDOT will strive for equitable geographic distribution across the state.
A new contract would be required.
No.
The Davis-Bacon Act does not apply solely to funds awarded from this program. However, Davis-Bacon Act requirements are contingent on the type of project. We recommend reviewing Davis-Bacon Act requirements along with your project scope ahead of application if there are any questions on the impact to your specific project. MDOT will assist with clarifying any related requirements after applications have been submitted and reviewed.
The applicant will have to follow their own purchasing/procurement policies in the engagement of contractors or purchasing of materials or equipment.
No. Projects already under contract are not eligible for the SSSG program.
Contracts with MDOT must be executed by Sept. 30, 2024. Additional time will be allowed for selected projects to address other sub-contracts.
It depends on the recipient. Once they are selected, we will determine the point of contact within MDOT.
Procurement requirements will be evaluated after eligible projects are selected and points of contact are determined by MDOT.
The applicant will have to follow their own purchasing/procurement policies in the engagement of contractors or purchasing of materials or equipment.
Those reviews are not needed, so long as no future/potential federal funding is expected to be applied for or used on this project. If that is a possibility, then federal requirements (NEPA, SHPO, etc.) would need to be followed to utilize future federal funds.
The categories would need to stay within the scope of the project that was applied for/awarded.
Correct, being that the funds are state funds and not federal funds. If a project is a standalone project and not paired with any federal funds, the LAP process will not be necessary. If the SSSG funds will be paired with another funding source, the SSSG funds would be subject to the limitations and requirements of the other funding source. So, as an example, if the intent is to use the SSSG funds on a larger project that is also using TAP or Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) funds, the SSSG funds would be subject to the rules and requirements of the TAP or HSIP funds. This would likely include the LAP process.
With a project already in process and a schedule as described, and applying for SSSG funds to the project doesn't adversely affect the project schedule, SSSG may be an option. But paring SSSG funds with other grant funds is generally ill-advised due to the potential of causing scheduling delays and other negative implications.
While the trail work would likely be okay for the SSSG program, the timing is indeed the challenge. You are correct, SSSG grant award notifications are indeed planned to be in August. If you are going through MDOT LAP for the project because of federal TAP funds, I imagine MDOT won’t need to set up a separate SSSG contract (though I’m not certain), in which case you wouldn’t have to wait for that contracting process to happen after August. LAP will likely only need to see the funding show up in JobNet (another guess, as that hasn’t been figured out yet), and then can move forward with the federal obligation request for the TAP funds. The best-case scenario would be SSSG funds available by the end of August, but probably in September or later.
A planned July letting would require federal obligation to be obtained in May, given a normal five-week ad for construction bids. If you need the July letting to work, then, no, SSSG funds will not be available in time. Given the timing logic I’ve outlined, using SSSG funds seems like it would require a letting date no sooner than November.
Sorry, we are unable to make recommendations on engagement strategies.
The program is funded by a one-time appropriation by the state Legislature. We have no ability to predict whether the program will continue or receive additional funding beyond what currently has been appropriated.
The program intent is for quick-build projects. However, projects not built quickly must be implemented and operational by Sept. 30, 2027.
State land is public land, therefore this project would be eligible. Any easements or maintenance agreements are a contractual/legal matter related to implementation that is between the local agency and the DNR.
Unfortunately, we cannot share other applicant information as this is a competitive program and doing so would provide an unfair advantage in the process. We’re emphasizing that applicants include a diverse range of partners for potential projects and encourage you to reach out to others in your network to further discuss the program and eligible projects.
