The Kansas Department of Transportation disbursed $8.6 million on February 28 to help fund 18 projects selected for inclusion in its Transportation Alternatives program for fiscal year 2021. The next call for projects is expected to be released this summer, the agency added.

“Kansans value safety in all modes of transportation, which is why it is an important element of the new FORWARD transportation program,” noted Julie Lorenz (seen above at right), Kansas DOT secretary, in a statement. “I’m pleased that these projects focus on improving safety for pedestrians and children walking to school.”

The agency said it selected those 18 projects – with total costs expected to exceed $13 million – for funding assistance based on criteria developed using input from various departments and external partners such as safety and network improvements, cost estimates, project readiness, public support and other factors. It added that each project sponsor must commit to providing at least 20 percent of the cost of the project as a local cash match.

“The high quality of applications for projects this year made the process especially competitive,” noted Jenny Kramer, the Kansas DOT’s state bicycle and pedestrian coordinator.

“Projects tied to local long-term transportation and/or bicycle and pedestrian master plans were especially strong because they demonstrated a commitment over time to promote transportation choices and make their communities bicycle and pedestrian friendly,” Kramer said.