Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) Program

Background
The United Stated States Department of Transportation (USDOT) is requesting applications for the Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) discretionary grant program. The RCP Program aims to advance and support reconnection of communities divided by transportation infrastructure, with a priority on helping disadvantaged communities improve access to daily needs such as jobs, schools, healthcare, grocery stores, and recreation. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law specifies that the maximum Community Planning Grant award funded with RCP funds is $2 million and that the minimum Capital Construction Grant award funded with RCP funds is $5 million.

Grant Details
The RCP Program provides grant funding and technical assistance for planning and capital construction to address infrastructure barriers, restore community connectivity, and improve people’s lives. The RCP Program welcomes applications from diverse local, State, Tribal, and regional communities regardless of size, location, and experience administering Federal funding awards. The program will be implemented consistent with the policy goals highlighted in DOT Equity Action Plan, Executive Orders 14091, 12898, 14008, 14096, and other relevant initiatives. The program will also highlight additional equity-related objectives related to housing supply and rural and Tribal communities.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants for Community Planning Grants include a State, a unit of local government, a Tribal government, a Metropolitan Planning Organization, or a non-profit organization. Eligible applicants for Capital Construction Grants include owner(s) of the eligible facility proposed in the project for which all necessary feasibility studies and other planning activities have been completed; or eligible Community Planning Grant applicant may submit the application in partnership with the facility owner to carry out the proposed project.

Period of Performance
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on Monday, September 30, 2024. Late applications will not be accepted.

Grant Value
For the period covered by this NOFO BIL allocates a total of $607 million. FY 2024 ($200 million), 2025 ($202 million), and 2026 ($205 million). Planning Grants and Technical Assistance funding - $150 M ($50 million annually). Capital Construction Grant funding $457 million total.