The Oregon Department of Transportation is requesting project proposals in the Transportation Enhancement program. About $13 million is available statewide for projects that can be ready for contract in 2011 and 2012. Projects selected will become part of Oregon's 2010-2013 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program.
The "TE" program provides federal funds for projects that strengthen the cultural, aesthetic, and environmental value of our transportation system. This can include side-walk, bike path and streetscape projects, restoration of transportation-related historic buildings, wildlife and water quality mitigation projects, or landscaping, viewpoints, and interpretive sites that help travelers appreciate the scenery and history along Oregon roads and highways.
Among the 12 eligible activities are acquisition of scenic easements and scene or historic sites; scenic or historic highway programs; historic preservation; rehabilitation and operation of historic transportation buildings, structures or facilities; archaeological planning and research; establishment of transportation museums; and provision of facilities, safety and educational activities for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Projects are selected through a statewide competitive process based on written application and field review. Applications are accepted from local, state or federal agencies, Indian tribes, and tax-funded districts. A private organization can apply in partnership with a public agency. Recipients must supply matching funds to cover at least 10.27% of the project cost.
The TE application process has two steps: a notice of intent due Feb. 1 and a complete application due May 2.
For more information and to download the application, click here