55D - BIKEWAYS STRATEGIC PLAN - Laserfiche WebLink

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2 Funding Opportunities There are a variety of potential funding sources that can be used for bicycle projects, programs and plans from all levels of government. This section covers traditional federal, state, regional and local sources of funding, as well as some non - traditional funding sources that may be used for bicycle projects. In addition, local jurisdictions are encouraged to have bicycle projects prioritized and ready to move forward on short notice in the case that new funding sources become available. 2.5.1. Federal Funding Sources The primary federal source of surface transportation funding including bicycle and pedestrian facilities is the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient, Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA -LU). This Federal bill is the third iteration of the transportation vision established by Congress in 1991 with the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act and renewed in 1998 and extended in 2003 through the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century and the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act of 2003. Also known as the Federal Transportation Bill, the $286.5 billion bill was passed in 2005 and authorizes federal surface transportation programs for the five -year period between 2005 and 2009. Federal funding is administered through the state (Caltrans and the State Resources Agency) and regional planning agencies. Most, but not all, of these funding programs are oriented toward transportation versus recreation, with an emphasis on reducing vehicle trips and providing inter - modal connections. Many Federal programs require a local match of between 10 -20 %. Federal funding is intended for capital improvements and safety and education programs and projects must relate to the surface transportation system. Specific funding programs under the federal transportation bill for bicycle facilities that might be potential funding sources for the CBSP may include: Federal Lands Highway Funds Approximately $1 billion dollars are available nationally through 2009 for planning and construction of bicycle projects built in conjunction with roadways Transportation, Community and System Preservation Program $270 million nationally through 2009 for projects that improve the efficiency of the transportation system, reduce the impact on the environment, and provide efficient access to jobs, services and trade centers Recreational Trails Program $370 million nationally through 2009 for non - motorized trail projects. Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program About $1.7 billion available nationwide per year. Estimated annual program level for California is $360 million. Highway Safety Im provement Program (HSIP� The annual program funding is approximately $54 million for Federal Fiscal Year 2008/2009 at which time the HSIP program will end, unless it is extended or reauthorized. The maximum funding amount for a project is $1 million, and the federal reimbursement rate is 90 %. Regional Surface Transportation Program Estimated annual program level is $330 million which is eligible for State Match and Exchange Program funding. Safe Routes to School This is a 100% federal reimbursement program. California will receive $68 million over the five year life of SAFETEA -LU. There is no local match required. Transportation Enhancements California will receive approximately $75 million per year for five years, starting in 2006. OCTA Commuter Bikeways Strategic Plan