With nearly 100 applications in the
first round, the new Cost Share Program from the Kansas Department of
Transportation (KDOT) is off to a strong start.
In total, KDOT received 92
applications with more than $92 million in local investment. In return, the
applications requested nearly $242 million from KDOT funds.
“While we knew there’s pent up demand
for transportation investment, we’re overwhelmed with the level of interest
this new program is garnering,” said Lindsey Douglas, Deputy Secretary of
Policy and Fiscal Affairs.
Announcements for selected projects are slated for the end
of this month.
“The new program demonstrates the importance of combining
state and local funds to address transportation needs across Kansas,” Governor
Laura Kelly said. “While we won’t be able to approve all applications
representing requests totaling more than a quarter of a billion dollars, the
high interest proves it’s time to develop a new transportation plan for the
state.”
The Cost Share Program is designed to
provide financial assistance that leverages state funding with local and
private funding for projects related to job growth and retention. It will
provide funding to local entities for construction projects that improve
safety, increase the total transportation investment and help both rural and
urban areas of the state improve their transportation system.
Entities, typically administered by a
local unit of government, are required to put forward a minimum of 15% non-state
cash match with additional consideration given to project applications that
commit more than the minimum required match amount. A minimum 25% match is
required for projects to qualify for the one-time $50 million approved this
fiscal year by the Legislature and Gov. Laura Kelly.
All transportation projects are
eligible, including roadway (on and off the state system), rail, airport,
bicycle/pedestrian and public transit. They must be construction projects that
address an important transportation need such as promoting safety, improving
access or mobility, improving condition or relieving congestion.
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and will
be reviewed twice per year, in October and March. Selection criteria will
include consideration of projects that meet program objectives, eligibility
categories and requirements. Geographic distribution will also be considered
during project selection.
Application and a fact sheet on the Cost Share Program can
be found at www.KSDot.org or
with the links below:
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