Reconnecting Communities Pilot Discretionary Grant Program

Background
The Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program notice of funding opportunity aims to solicit applications for grants that remove, retrofit, or mitigate highways or other transportation facilities creating barriers to community connectivity, mobility, access, or economic development. The program aligns with the priorities in Executive Order 14052 and the DOT Strategic Plan goals.

Grant Details
The program provides technical assistance and grant funding for planning and capital construction to address infrastructure barriers, restore community connectivity, and improve people’s lives. It offers two types of grants: Planning Grants fund the study of removing, retrofitting, or mitigating an existing facility to restore community connectivity; Capital Construction Grants fund projects to remove, retrofit, mitigate, or replace an existing eligible facility with a new facility that reconnects communities. The program prioritizes communities harmed by transportation infrastructure and aligns with Biden-Harris Administration policies and priorities.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include States, local governments, Tribal governments, Metropolitan Planning Organizations, and non-profit organizations. For Planning Grants, the Federal share may not exceed 80% of the total project cost. For Capital Construction Grants, the Federal share may not exceed 50% of the total project cost. Matching funds may include State funds, local funds, philanthropic funds, or private funds.

Period of Performance
The FY 2022 funding available is up to $195 million and will be implemented in alignment with Executive Order 14052 priorities. Applications must be submitted by October 13, 2022. The RCP Program grant funds are available until expended but must be obligated by September 30, 2025.

Grant Value
Planning Grants may range from $100,000 to $2 million while Capital Construction Grants may range from $5 million to $100 million.

Place of Performance
The eligible facilities include highways or other transportation facilities that create barriers to community connectivity. The project location should be in economically disadvantaged communities or rural areas.