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Communities across Minnesota are invited to apply for Active Transportation Planning Assistance, the Minnesota Department of Transportation announced Wednesday.

Approximately $1 million of technical assistance is available through this solicitation.

These Active Transportation grants help communities of all sizes and types create action plans with help from a consultant. Action plans will analyze existing conditions, engage the community, determine ways to improve infrastructure and networks, and identify policies and programs to promote walking and bicycling.

“An active transportation action plan can help your community become the best version of itself,” said Will Wlizlo, Active Transportation coordinator at MnDOT. “Transportation networks that focus on walking and bicycling connect people with important places in their communities. Active transportation also improves local health outcomes, reduces pollution, spurs economic activity, and increases connections between neighbors.”

Each community will be responsible for further pursuit (i.e. construction costs) of action plan recommendations.

New this year, selected applicants will also choose a supplemental technical assistance project to keep momentum during the planning process. This project can be one of six options:

• Demonstration infrastructure projects
• Basic cost-scoping estimates and/or preliminary engineering design layouts
• Photography and visioning graphics
• AT program and policy implementation roadmaps
• Targeted supplemental engagement activities
• Strategic communications development

Applications are due at 5 p.m. Nov. 22. More information is available at dot.state.mn.us/active-transportation-program/planning-assistance.html.