Are townships, counties, villages, schools, downtown development authorities (DDAs), universities, neighborhood associations, etc., eligible to apply for the SSSG?

No. Statute outlines the only eligible applicants to be incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c.

Georgetown Township has a transportation department where we receive MDOT funding. Would we be eligible to apply then?

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.

Is an airport authority considered an eligible public transit agency?

Only incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c are eligible to apply.

Is there a required match?

No, there is no match required for the SSSG. Any match proposed for projects will not be a consideration for scoring.

Can we as a consultant/metropolitan planning organization (MPO) apply on behalf of a client?

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.

In WizeHive, is there an option to create more than one profile (as a grantwriter who may be submitting this grant on behalf of more than one 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.

Does the account "owner" need to be the municipality or can a consultant be the owner?

Yes, the profile or owner must be an eligible agency.

Can we submit multiple projects? For example, one as a municipality and one as a transit agency? If a city has its own public transit agency, can two applications be submitted for different aspects of a similar project? For example, allowing the city to request $200,000 and the transit agency to apply for a separate $200,000?

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.

Are universities eligible as a beneficiary as part of a partnership?

No. Only incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c are eligible to apply.

We have a potential project that has two phases: phase 1 can be completed in the timeframe named, the second phase will come later. Would phase 1 (which is really a standalone project) be eligible?

Yes, if phase 1 is an eligible project for funding as a standalone project.

Do applications require documentation of local governmental approval or a resolution? How much detail does the governing body's resolution have to provide? Does the resolution only need to consent to the grant application or does the resolution need to commit to the full value of the project if exceeding the grant limit? Can a sample resolution be provided?

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.

Are developed plans required for the application?

No, but the applicant should have an understanding of the full scope of the project and estimated construction costs.

Is there a character limit for each of the application fields?

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.

What type of projects are eligible?

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.

Would e-bike charging stations be an eligible project?

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.

Can this fund the repainting of pedestrian markings and bike lanes? Is existing sidewalk replacement or trip hazard removal an eligible item?

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.

My clients are looking at utilizing this grant opportunity to potentially reconstruct a section of boardwalk that was damaged by frost heave and made unsuited for use. The boardwalk would be demolished and then reconstructed. Is that something that would be eligible for this grant opportunity?

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.

Our project is along the Iron River in the city of Iron River, so there may be some permitting for floodplains/wetlands required by the Department of Environment and Great Lakes (EGLE). Would that cause the project to be deemed ineligible?

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.

To clarify, the permitting for this project is already in place with EGLE. In the event of construction happening, the city is currently looking for funding opportunities?

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.

Would making a park compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) work (parking, pathways to ballfields, designated seating area)? Would sidewalk replacement and adding ADA ramps for an area that connects a school to a downtown be eligible? Would adding a permanent roof on a farmer's market be eligible?

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.

If you have a new sidewalk project, is there a minimum width required for this grant?

Yes, projects must meet all federal requirements per the ADA.

In our community, a livable street is going to be constructed as part of a development that will be public. It is a public property we are selling to a developer. The livable street will become a public right of way. This is an extension of an existing livable street. Could up to $200,000 be put toward this project?

The program website states projects on private property are considered ineligible.

Can money be used to purchase a short right of way between two sidewalks?

The program website states all projects that require property acquisition, or permanent grading easements or right of way, are ineligible.

You said that engineering was ineligible but the website shows the program will fund design services (architectural/engineering work)?

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.

Would upgrading a downtown to curbless streets for pedestrian enhancements be an eligible item?

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.

Are vehicles for public transit eligible, such as a downtown circulator bus?

If there is an existing public transit agency that serves that area, they would be the eligible recipient of the vehicle or bus.

My transit agency has installed a bus shelter in a city. The city wants to move it to another location. Is that eligible?

Yes, so long as the project meets the goals of the program and doesn't result in the original area to be underserved.

Can you apply for a connector sidewalk project that has already been awarded but won't be built until after August?

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.

Can you apply for a sidewalk and bike lane along the same path or would it be two projects?

Yes, so long as the project meets the program goals and is within the project budget. Refer to the SSSG website for more information.

Can funds be utilized to offset local funding for projects that have already been designed and bid if determined to be eligible for funding?

No. If the project has already been awarded and is in process, it is not eligible.

Are there any constraints/restrictions if projects are located within the jurisdiction of MDOT?

Yes, projects located within the jurisdiction of MDOT must get the necessary permits and approval from MDOT to proceed.

Would this grant be for Dispatch software, by chance? We currently do not use any software, and I believe it would be an asset. Manistee County Transportation, Inc. (MCTI) is currently in favor of Dispatch software system for our on-demand transit. I believe this would make our community more transit-friendly. Currently, we do not use any software, so this would be technology innovation. Am I reading this correctly?

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.

Will there be a document that lists all of the information we will need to complete the application online?

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.

Since only one person per organization will be allowed to create an account, will a fillable form be available on the website to download as a working document, without creating a profile or account?

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.

Is a pdf of the application available on Slide Deck?

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.

Can a bike path project be constructed in partnership with the MDNR on DNR-owned lands? DNR will bid the project. The city will be paying for the bike path construction.

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.

You stated that this could be combined with other grants. Can this be combined with a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant?

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.

Would it be able to be partnered with the DNR Trust Fund grant?

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.

Can we partner this grant with federal funding?

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.

How are the projects being selected? Point system; first-come, first-serve; or something else?

MDOT will have a scoring system based on points and how the project meets program goals and program intent.

How will applications be ranked?

MDOT will have a scoring system based on points and how the project meets program goals and program intent.

Do you see this primarily being awarded in high-population areas? Wondering if it is worth the effort in smaller (less than 10,000 people) communities.

No. MDOT will strive for equitable geographic distribution across the state.

Can a project be incorporated into an existing contract (with a contractor)? Would we have to send out a new bid for these funds?

A new contract would be required.

Are there Davis-Bacon Act requirements?

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.

Is competitive bidding required?

The applicant will have to follow their own purchasing/procurement policies in the engagement of contractors or purchasing of materials or equipment.

Shared Streets and Spaces Grant Program

Frequently asked questions
Shared Streets and Spaces Grant Program

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.

Eligible applicants

Are townships, counties, villages, schools, downtown development authorities (DDAs), universities, neighborhood associations, etc., eligible to apply for the SSSG?

No. Statute outlines the only eligible applicants to be incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c.
Georgetown Township has a transportation department where we receive MDOT funding. Would we be eligible to apply then?

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.
Is an airport authority considered an eligible public transit agency?

Only incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c are eligible to apply.

Program questions

Is there a required match?

No, there is no match required for the SSSG. Any match proposed for projects will not be a consideration for scoring.
Are these federal pass-through funds (with a Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) or assistance number) or state funds?

These are state funds.

Third party applicants

Can we as a consultant/metropolitan planning organization (MPO) apply on behalf of a client?

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.
In WizeHive, is there an option to create more than one profile (as a grantwriter who may be submitting this grant on behalf of more than one 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.
Does the account "owner" need to be the municipality or can a consultant be the owner?

Yes, the profile or owner must be an eligible agency.

Partnerships/collaborations

Can we submit multiple projects? For example, one as a municipality and one as a transit agency? If a city has its own public transit agency, can two applications be submitted for different aspects of a similar project? For example, allowing the city to request $200,000 and the transit agency to apply for a separate $200,000?

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.
If the county transit authority applies, can a city apply for a separate project?

Yes.
Are universities eligible as a beneficiary as part of a partnership?

No. Only incorporated cities and transit authorities/agencies under 10c of 1951 PA 51, MCL 247.660c are eligible to apply.

Application questions

Are you able to submit an application for two locations under one application?

Yes.
We have a potential project that has two phases: phase 1 can be completed in the timeframe named, the second phase will come later. Would phase 1 (which is really a standalone project) be eligible?

Yes, if phase 1 is an eligible project for funding as a standalone project.
Do applications require documentation of local governmental approval or a resolution? How much detail does the governing body's resolution have to provide? Does the resolution only need to consent to the grant application or does the resolution need to commit to the full value of the project if exceeding the grant limit? Can a sample resolution be provided?

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.
Are developed plans required for the application?

No, but the applicant should have an understanding of the full scope of the project and estimated construction costs.
Is there a character limit for each of the application fields?

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.

Eligible projects

What type of projects are eligible?

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.
Would e-bike charging stations be an eligible project?

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.
Can this fund the repainting of pedestrian markings and bike lanes? Is existing sidewalk replacement or trip hazard removal an eligible item?

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.
My clients are looking at utilizing this grant opportunity to potentially reconstruct a section of boardwalk that was damaged by frost heave and made unsuited for use. The boardwalk would be demolished and then reconstructed. Is that something that would be eligible for this grant opportunity?

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.
Our project is along the Iron River in the city of Iron River, so there may be some permitting for floodplains/wetlands required by the Department of Environment and Great Lakes (EGLE). Would that cause the project to be deemed ineligible?

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.
To clarify, the permitting for this project is already in place with EGLE. In the event of construction happening, the city is currently looking for funding opportunities?

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.
Would making a park compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) work (parking, pathways to ballfields, designated seating area)? Would sidewalk replacement and adding ADA ramps for an area that connects a school to a downtown be eligible? Would adding a permanent roof on a farmer's market be eligible?

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.
If you have a new sidewalk project, is there a minimum width required for this grant?

Yes, projects must meet all federal requirements per the ADA.
In our community, a livable street is going to be constructed as part of a development that will be public. It is a public property we are selling to a developer. The livable street will become a public right of way. This is an extension of an existing livable street. Could up to $200,000 be put toward this project?

The program website states projects on private property are considered ineligible.
Can money be used to purchase a short right of way between two sidewalks?

The program website states all projects that require property acquisition, or permanent grading easements or right of way, are ineligible.
You said that engineering was ineligible but the website shows the program will fund design services (architectural/engineering work)?

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.
Would upgrading a downtown to curbless streets for pedestrian enhancements be an eligible item?

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.
Are vehicles for public transit eligible, such as a downtown circulator bus?

If there is an existing public transit agency that serves that area, they would be the eligible recipient of the vehicle or bus.
My transit agency has installed a bus shelter in a city. The city wants to move it to another location. Is that eligible?

Yes, so long as the project meets the goals of the program and doesn't result in the original area to be underserved.
So the grant must be used for the implementation of the project? It cannot be used for any design work/assessment?

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. "
Can you apply for a connector sidewalk project that has already been awarded but won't be built until after August?

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.
Can you apply for a sidewalk and bike lane along the same path or would it be two projects?

Yes, so long as the project meets the program goals and is within the project budget. Refer to the SSSG website for more information.
Can funds be utilized to offset local funding for projects that have already been designed and bid if determined to be eligible for funding?

No. If the project has already been awarded and is in process, it is not eligible.
Are there any constraints/restrictions if projects are located within the jurisdiction of MDOT?

Yes, projects located within the jurisdiction of MDOT must get the necessary permits and approval from MDOT to proceed.
Would this grant be for Dispatch software, by chance? We currently do not use any software, and I believe it would be an asset. Manistee County Transportation, Inc. (MCTI) is currently in favor of Dispatch software system for our on-demand transit. I believe this would make our community more transit-friendly. Currently, we do not use any software, so this would be technology innovation. Am I reading this correctly?

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.

Requests for more information

Will there be a document that lists all of the information we will need to complete the application online?

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.
Since only one person per organization will be allowed to create an account, will a fillable form be available on the website to download as a working document, without creating a profile or account?

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.
Is a pdf of the application available on Slide Deck?

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.
Will the meeting recording be posted?

No.

Funding collaborations

Can a bike path project be constructed in partnership with the MDNR on DNR-owned lands? DNR will bid the project. The city will be paying for the bike path construction.

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.
You stated that this could be combined with other grants. Can this be combined with a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant?

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.
Would it be able to be partnered with the DNR Trust Fund grant?

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.
Can we partner this grant with federal funding?

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.

Application review/scoring

How are the projects being selected? Point system; first-come, first-serve; or something else?

MDOT will have a scoring system based on points and how the project meets program goals and program intent.
How will applications be ranked?

MDOT will have a scoring system based on points and how the project meets program goals and program intent.
Do you see this primarily being awarded in high-population areas? Wondering if it is worth the effort in smaller (less than 10,000 people) communities.

No. MDOT will strive for equitable geographic distribution across the state.

Implementation

Can a project be incorporated into an existing contract (with a contractor)? Would we have to send out a new bid for these funds?

A new contract would be required.
Do projects have to meet MDOT grade inspection requirements?

No.
Are there Davis-Bacon Act requirements?

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.
Is competitive bidding required?

The applicant will have to follow their own purchasing/procurement policies in the engagement of contractors or purchasing of materials or equipment.
Are projects expected to have been bid before June 7 in order to apply for a grant amount?

No. Projects already under contract are not eligible for the SSSG program.
Must contracts be signed by Sept. 30, 2024?

Contracts with MDOT must be executed by Sept. 30, 2024. Additional time will be allowed for selected projects to address other sub-contracts.
Who at the state will applicants work through? Local Agency Programs? The Office of Public Transportation (OPT)?

It depends on the recipient. Once they are selected, we will determine the point of contact within MDOT.
I'm assuming that all procurement-related activities would need to flow through OPTs compliance analyst?

Procurement requirements will be evaluated after eligible projects are selected and points of contact are determined by MDOT.
Will projects also be let out of the LAP office or is this locally let with stipulations?

The applicant will have to follow their own purchasing/procurement policies in the engagement of contractors or purchasing of materials or equipment.
What type of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and/or State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) approvals are needed for installation of transit amenities at bus stops within existing road right of way?

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.
If this grant would be partnered with other grant funding to complete the project, how much flexibility will be allowed with adjusting funding categories post-bidding of the project?

The categories would need to stay within the scope of the project that was applied for/awarded.
It sounds like MDOT isn’t going to require grantees to go through their normal MDOT review process and bidding through MDOT like a local agency project. Is this correct?

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.
We have a project (Silver Lake Road Pathway) that is shovel-ready and could be ready to bid in July and start construction in August. It is a $3.5 million project with a nine-month build schedule. It is a pathway project connecting downtown Linden with downtown Fenton. Many partners involved. We just published the final estimate and we are short of funds.

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.
My direct questions are related to timing. As stated, we are scheduled to possibly let the project in July. The SSSG program states awards will be made in August. How quickly would funding become available and does this seem to be an appropriate source of funding to help bridge the funding gap?

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.

Miscellaneous

Do you have suggestions for efficient public engagement for 50-100 small locations in the public right of way scattered around the city?

Sorry, we are unable to make recommendations on engagement strategies.
Do you see additional funding being added if there are a lot of applications (i.e., more than $3.5 million)?

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.
Is there a deadline for when projects need to be completed by?

The program intent is for quick-build projects. However, projects not built quickly must be implemented and operational by Sept. 30, 2027.
I am working with the City of Menominee regarding a nonmotorized pathway in the city. The project is on DNR-managed lands along a DNR roadway. The city is paying for construction of the pathway separated from the roadway. The pathway connects from city right of way on 1st Street to the historic pier/highthouse and is heavily traveled by nonmotorized traffic. There is a pathway today, but it is a roadway shoulder. The city wishes to separate the pathway from the road along with adding a barrier to separate traffic from the pathway. From an eligibility standpoint, would the city having a lease or some type of development agreement with the DNR on this path make the project eligible for a SSSG grant?

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.
Could you pass along any information or contacts from other organizations that have or will be applying in the same capacity?

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.

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