The Minnesota Department of Transportation invites communities across Minnesota to apply for Active Transportation Planning Assistance to help plan new ways for people to safely walk and bicycle.
The application window closes on Monday, January 18, 2027.
As part of the Active Transportation Planning Assistance program, communities will develop a comprehensive action plan after consultants assess existing conditions, engage with the community, identify opportunities to improve infrastructure and transportation networks, and evaluate policies and programs to promote walking and bicycling.
“Transportation networks that focus on walking and bicycling connect people with important places in their communities,” said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. “Active transportation also spurs economic activity, improves local health outcomes, reduces pollution and increases connections between neighbors.”
Funded by the Minnesota Legislature, the program offers recipients an estimated $100,000 worth of technical assistance from a consultant, such as developing an action plan and demonstration project. The communities will not receive money directly from MnDOT.
Since 2018, MnDOT has administered more than $3 million to more than 35 cities and counties. Each recipient is responsible for implementation costs (e.g., for construction) of their action plan.
With action plans developed in every part of the state, MnDOT’s Active Transportation Planning Assistance can make a meaningful impact in any kind of community. One community that has benefited from this funding is Mora, Minn.
“Right off the bat, what pleased me the most was that the action plan items suggested were right-sized for our community,” said Kirsten Faurie, Community Development director for the City of Mora. “Everyone involved in this planning process was realistic, respectful and listened to the feedback about what our priorities were. When there was something suggested that didn’t quite fit our city’s culture or capacity, I didn’t feel like we were pressured to keep it.”
Selected applicants will also choose a supplemental implementation assistance project to keep momentum after the planning process. This project can be one of six options:
- Demonstration infrastructure projects
- Basic cost-scoping estimates and/or preliminary engineering design layouts
- Photo rendering and visioning graphics
- Active Transportation program and policy implementation roadmaps
- Targeted supplemental engagement activities
- Strategic communications development
Applications are due at 5 p.m. Monday, January 18, 2027. More information, including application resources and informational webinar links, is available online.
