WisDOT unveils one-time grants for local infrastructure needs

Wisconsin's new 2019-21 budget includes $75 million in one-time funding for local transportation projects, the state's Department of Transportation (WisDOT) announced yesterday.

The new program will enable local communities to prioritize their most immediate transportation needs, said Craig Thompson, WisDOT secretary-designee, in a press release.

"The grant program is designed to address a range of possible projects, and puts the decision-making in the hands of the locals," Thompson said. "We expect that communities will submit the project they believe will have the greatest impact on their economic development and growth."

Grants will be available for projects related to railroads, bridges, transit capital and facilities, bicycle and pedestrian accommodations, roads and harbors.

The program will pay up to 90 percent of total eligible costs with local governments providing the balance.

Local and tribal governments are eligible for the funding. A six-year project completion will be required for approved projects.

The one-time grant program is in addition to an historic 10 percent increase — $66 million over the biennium — in available general transportation aid paid to counties, towns, villages and cities.