As we approach the end of the year, a number of state grant programs will become available in the new year through the Ohio Department of Transportation, including resources to support active transportation infrastructure and education programs.
To assist communities prepare to these grant applications, GOPC is proud to offer the following resources:
Let’s Make Safe, Vibrant Streets Webinar
This webinar features presentations from the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Local Technical Assistance Program Manager and Active Transportation Manager. They will discuss ODOT programs focused on local technical assistance and funding opportunities for active transportation and safe routes to schools.
(Note: This webinar was originally broadcast in December 2025, so dates cited are not current).
Active Transportation Funding Opportunities and Resources in Ohio
This excerpt is a summary of the resources GOPC has identified which communities can utilize to support the development of active transportation projects. This includes
A list of federal and state funding sources
Technical assistance programs that support planning and implementation This guide will be periodically updated as new resources are identified or become available.
Key Program Deadlines
Highway Safety Improvement Program Abbreviated Safety Funding Application
The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) is a core program with the purpose to achieve a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads, including nonstate-owned roads. The HSIP requires a data-driven, strategic approach to improving highway safety on all public roads with a focus on performance.
The purpose of the abbreviated application process is to quickly implement safety improvements at locations with a crash pattern and safety concern. This process has been simplified to help us review and potentially fund less expensive, less complex safety improvements quickly. Projects submitted should be listed on one of the priority lists. If it does not fall on one of these lists, please state in the description why this location is a priority and should be considered. Applications are due for review 4 times per year.
Applications due December 31, 2025, March 31, 2026, June 30, 2026, and September 30, 2026
Safe Routes to School Funding
Safe Routes to Schools Program (SRTS) provides resources, technical assistance and project funding to encourage and enable students in grades K-12 to walk or ride their bike to school. A comprehensive approach to SRTS includes both infrastructure and non-infrastructure countermeasures and programs.
In 2026, this program is funded at $5 million annually for projects in 5 categories: Engineering, Encouragement, Education, Enforcement and Evaluation. Funds are available for Infrastructure projects within two miles of schools serving K-12 students. (ODOT will reimburse up to 100% of eligible costs for all phases, including preliminary engineering, detailed design, right-of-way, construction, and construction engineering. Project limit: $500,000) and Non-infrastructure activities such as education, encouragement, enforcement or evaluation. Non-infrastructure funding may be requested for assistance with the development of plans (ODOT will reimburse up to 100% of eligible costs for items such as training and materials, program supplies, small safety and education incentives, and public awareness campaigns). Project limit: $60,000 or $120,000 for a two-year project. Please Note: To apply for funds from the state Safe Routes to Schools Program, school travel plans and other plans must be approved by regional ODOT District Coordinators.
Applications due March 6, 2026
Highway Safety Improvement Program Systemic Safety Program (Pedestrian & Roadway Department Program)
The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) is a core program with the purpose to achieve a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads, including nonstate-owned roads. The HSIP requires a data-driven, strategic approach to improving highway safety on all public roads with a focus on performance.
In January 2022, ODOT’s Highway Safety Program began to accept project applications that focus on preventing injuries resulting from pedestrian and roadway departure crashes through systemic infrastructure improvements. Systemic improvements are meant to be proactive and widely implemented based on roadway features that have been associated with specific crash types. FHWA has identified a range of proven countermeasures that prevent pedestrian and roadway departure crashes, and ODOT wants to encourage project applications that focus on the implementation of these improvements. Applications are accepted twice a year.
Applications due March 31, 2026 and August 31, 2026
School Zone Flasher Program
School speed limit signs alert drivers they are entering a school zone and need to slow down for school children. School speed limits in Ohio are 20 miles per hour. These devices are important but should not be overused. Excessive and unreasonable use may lead drivers to ignore the devices. Occasional police enforcement is also needed at these signs.
Your school may be eligible to receive a free school flasher through this program if the school abuts a US Route or State Highway (outside of an incorporated area) that serves as a drop-off or pick-up point for students, or serves pedestrians and/or bicyclists.
Rolling Applications - Contact ODOT & Local Engineer to learn more