Federal transportation funding continues to support local infrastructure improvements that expand pedestrian and bicycle networks across Michigan. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has committed approximately $4.6 million in Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grants for three projects in Allegan and Ottawa counties aimed at enhancing active transportation infrastructure.
The funding will support three projects designed to improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists.
The Allegan County Road Commission received $823,363 for the Safe Routes to School project serving Pullman Elementary School. The project includes construction of sidewalks and pedestrian and bicycle facilities to improve student access to the school.
The Ottawa County Road Commission secured $1.77 million to construct the Allendale segment of Phase VI of the Grand River Greenway Trail. The separated pathway will expand regional trail connectivity while providing safer travel options for pedestrians and cyclists.
West Michigan Trails was awarded approximately $2.02 million for a regional active transportation wayfinding initiative that will install standardized directional signage throughout the MDOT Grand Region.
According to MDOT, the Allendale trail segment will serve as a key connection between several regional trail systems, including the Fred Meijer Pioneer Trail, White Pine Trail, and Iron Belle Trail. The project also improves access to Grand Valley State University's Allendale campus and nearby commercial areas while linking users to recreational amenities along the Grand River.
The regional signage initiative is intended to create a more connected active transportation network by helping pedestrians and cyclists navigate separated pathways and on-road bicycle facilities using consistent wayfinding standards.
The grant commitments are conditional and reserve federal transportation funds designated for approved projects under the Transportation Alternatives Program.
Investment in sidewalks, shared-use paths, and bicycle infrastructure continues to grow as state and local agencies prioritize multimodal transportation and community connectivity. For contractors and construction firms, Transportation Alternatives Program funding creates opportunities for civil construction, pathway development, streetscape improvements, and transportation infrastructure projects that support safer mobility and economic development.
