Little Rock, Arkansas – The Arkansas State Highway Commission has officially opened the application period for two major federal grant programs that support local infrastructure and recreational development. The Arkansas Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and the Arkansas Recreational Trails Program (RTP) are now accepting applications, providing public agencies across the state with the opportunity to receive federal funding for a variety of non-highway projects.
Grant Opportunities for Transportation and Trail Projects
These two programs are geared toward improving community mobility, safety, and recreation through federally reimbursed grants. The TAP program focuses on transportation-related projects that support pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non-motorized modes of travel. Meanwhile, the RTP program provides funding for the development and rehabilitation of recreational trails, including both motorized and non-motorized pathways.
The TAP program offers funding for a wide range of projects, including:
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Sidewalks and bike infrastructure
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Pedestrian and bicycle signals and safety features
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Safe routes for non-drivers
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Conversion of abandoned railroad corridors into trails
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Pollution prevention and environmental mitigation
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Safe Routes to School initiatives
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Public outreach, education, and encouragement programs
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Walking school bus programs and pedestrian/trail master plans
RTP funding supports projects such as:
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Development and maintenance of motorized and non-motorized trails
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Construction of trailhead and trailside facilities
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Creating linkages between trails and communities
Informational Seminars and Application Details
To help interested applicants understand program requirements, virtual seminars will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, and Tuesday, February 24, 2026. These sessions will explain applicant responsibilities and eligible project types in greater detail.
All applications must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Application materials, eligibility information, and program guidelines can be found online at
www.ardot.gov/TAP and www.ardot.gov/RTP
Additionally, the Department maintains an open, year-round application cycle for Motorized RTP projects, with reviews conducted in the order they are received. More information about this ongoing opportunity is also available at the RTP website above.
The programs aim to empower communities to invest in healthier, more accessible, and sustainable transportation and recreation systems, with a strong emphasis on public safety and long-term value.
