Yes,
the U.S. DOT still offers significant grant funding for safety-focused
infrastructure, including sidewalks, through programs like Safe Streets
and Roads for All (SS4A), which had a major funding cycle in 2025 under
the Infrastructure
Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). While the main 2025 application deadline
(June 26, 2025) has passed, substantial funds remain available for future
rounds (FY2026), and these grants support projects like planning and building
multi-use paths for safety, so a 12-foot sidewalk would absolutely fit.
Key Programs & Details
Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A): This is the primary program for local projects focused on preventing fatalities and serious injuries, funding everything from safety action plans to actual construction, including sidewalks.
Funding Availability: The SS4A program has $5 billion over five years (2022-2026), with nearly $2 billion still available for future rounds, including for 2025 and 2026.
Eligible Projects: SS4A funds can cover planning, demonstration, and implementation, and are explicitly used for projects that improve pedestrian safety, making multi-use sidewalks a perfect fit.
How
to Find More Info
Check
the USDOT's
SS4A page for
updates on future funding opportunities and eligibility.
Look for Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) on Grants.gov for specific deadlines and details.
Yes, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) continues to offer several grant programs in 2025 that fund multi-use paths and wide sidewalks (typically 10–12 feet), specifically for projects that improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists.
Key 2025 funding opportunities include:
Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A): This program provides competitive grants for projects aimed at reducing roadway fatalities. It specifically supports infrastructural improvements for "vulnerable road users," including pedestrians and bicyclists. For FY 2025, approximately $982 million was made available, with an application deadline of June 26, 2025.
Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP): Newly launched under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this program funds the construction of "active transportation networks" and "spines"—such as multi-use trails and sidewalks—that connect everyday destinations. It is specifically designed to fill gaps in existing trails and sidewalk networks.
RAISE (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity): This discretionary grant program funds surface transportation projects with significant local or regional impact. In 2025, RAISE grants continue to fund "Complete Streets" projects, which often include separated bike lanes and improved sidewalk spaces. The program announced $1.5 billion in available funding for FY 2025.
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP): Administered through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), TAP remains a primary source for "non-motorized" transportation projects, including shared-use pathways and sidewalks.
Eligibility & Specifics
Width Requirements: While "12-foot multipurpose sidewalk" is a specific design choice often used for shared-use paths, these grants generally do not mandate a specific width but rather prioritize projects that meet safety and accessibility standards (like ADA) and demonstrate high impact on connectivity.
Eligible Applicants: Grants are typically available to local governments, Tribal governments, metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), and transit agencies.
Action Required: Most construction (implementation) grants, particularly for SS4A, require the jurisdiction to have an established Safety Action Plan already in place.
For the most current application windows, you can check the USDOT Key Grant Programs list or search for these specific opportunities on Grants.gov.
Comments
Federal funding for recreation needs to end. The 12 foot path grants need to end. Homeowner property infringements for unnecessary infrastructures are unpopular with voters. Voters vote No on the Bonds required to use these Federal Grants.
Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader
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