DVRPC's Competitive Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ) seeks to fund transportation projects that will improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. CMAQ-eligible projects demonstrably reduce air pollution emissions and help the DVRPC region meet the federal health-based air quality standards.
The project sponsor does not receive grant funds to start the project; rather, the sponsor is reimbursed for costs incurred after receiving funding authorization for the project and a notice to proceed. Costs incurred prior to project selection and notice to proceed are not reimbursed. All awarded projects must authorize federal CMAQ funds by the deadline stated in their award letters.
Project Eligibility
Projects must result in a reduction of emissions related to transportation, congestion reduction, and for the public good to meet the requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA) and its amendments. General eligible project categories include pedestrian and bicycle projects, transit improvement programs, congestion reduction and traffic flow improvements, and funding of transportation demand management programs, among others. Please refer to DVRPC's latest CMAQ Guidance.
Ineligible CMAQ Projects
As a general rule, highway or transit maintenance and reconstruction projects, and the construction of single occupancy vehicle (SOV) capacity are not eligible because they do not provide an air quality benefit. Operating costs for bike share programs are not eligible.
DVRPC retains the prerogative to declare a class of projects not eligible as a matter of policy, if it is determined that such use would not be in the best interest of the region. DVRPC can also deny funding to an otherwise eligible project if it is determined that such funding would provide one private firm an undue competitive advantage over another—a federal regulation that must be observed.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
All public agencies, incorporated private firms, or nonprofit entities, including municipalities, transportation management associations (TMAs), and transportation system operators are eligible. Private firms and nonprofits must partner with a local public agency sponsor and have a formal agreement in place with the public agency at the time of the funding award. Private individuals are not eligible to apply. Please refer to DVRPC's latest CMAQ Guidance for details.