Cars driving on a road next to a bike path with cyclists riding along it
Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

Surface Transportation Block Grant - Urban

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) program provides flexible funding to states and local governments for transportation projects that preserve, improve, and expand transportation infrastructure.

In Transportation Management Areas (TMAs)—urban areas with populations over 200,000, including the Greater Madison region—federal law allocates a dedicated portion of STBG funding to the region. The Greater Madison MPO is responsible for leading the project selection process to ensure these funds support local and regional transportation priorities.

  • Over $10M Estimated Annual Allocation of Funding

Current Application Period

The MPO is currently accepting supplemental applications for the 2026–2031 STBG–Urban Program cycle. To be considered, applicants must submit both the MPO application and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) application.

The application deadline has been extended from June 20, 2025, to August 11, 2025.

MPO Application

WisDOT Application

Eligible Projects

Projects must be located within the Greater Madison MPO urban area (see area defined by blue boundaries). 

Eligible project types include:

Roadway & Bridge Improvements

  • Pavement resurfacing, reconstruction, and rehabilitation to extend roadway lifespan
  • Lane additions to improve capacity and reduce congestion
  • New interchanges to enhance traffic flow and connectivity
  • Bridge replacement for aging or structurally deficient structures
  • Bridge widening or lane additions to improve safety and capacity

Pedestrian & Bicycle Infrastructure

  • Sidewalk improvements for accessibility and safety
  • Bicycle projects, including bike lanes and shared-use paths
  • Intersection enhancements, such as lighting, pavement markings, and signage
  • Pedestrian safety measures, including crosswalk improvements and traffic calming features

Public Transit & Multimodal Improvements

  • Multimodal connections, such as park-and-ride lots
  • Transit capital projects, including vehicle purchases, station upgrades, and infrastructure improvements
  • Transit research, safety enhancements, and management system upgrades

Local Match Requirement

A minimum local cost share of 35% is generally required for projects funded through the STBG–Urban program. Refer to the STBG - Urban Program Selection Process document for additional information.

Scoring Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Importance of Regional Transportation System – Supports key transportation corridors and regional mobility
  • System Preservation – Maintains and extends the lifespan of existing infrastructure
  • Congestion Mitigation & Traffic System Management (TSM) – Reduces congestion and improves traffic flow
  • Safety Enhancement – Improves roadway, pedestrian, and bicycle safety
  • Enhancement of Multimodal Operations – Supports transit, biking, walking, and other transportation options
  • Transportation-Efficient Land Use, Livability & Economic Prosperity – Promotes smart growth, accessibility, and economic development
  • Environmental Impact – Minimizes environmental effects and supports sustainability
  • Environmental Justice & Health Equity – Enhances transportation access for underserved communities
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis – Maximizes value and efficiency of investment

Resources
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Funding Programs