A person biking alongside cars with the Wisconsin State Capitol building in the background
Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP)

The Federal Highway Administration's Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) provides flexible funding to support projects that enhance mobility beyond driving alone. TAP funds help states, local governments, and nonprofit organizations invest in bicycling, walking, and public transit access, creating safer, more sustainable transportation options for communities.

In Transportation Management Areas (TMAs)—urban areas with populations over 200,000, including the Greater Madison area—federal law sets aside a portion of Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funding for the region. The Greater Madison MPO is responsible for allocating these funds to selected projects.

Funding Eligibility

TAP funding supports projects that make communities safer, more accessible, and environmentally friendly. 

Eligible projects include:

  • Sidewalks, bike lanes, and separated paths – On- and off-street infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists
  • Safe routes for non-drivers – Projects that improve access and safety for people walking, biking, or using mobility aids
  • Safe Routes to School (SRTS) plans and programs – Helping kids walk and bike to school safely
  • Rail-to-trail conversions – Repurposing abandoned rail corridors into multi-use trails

All TAP projects require sponsors to cover at least 20% of the approved project costs. Federal TAP funds are capped at the time of award, meaning additional costs are the sponsor’s responsibility. 

Current Application Cycle

The MPO is now accepting supplemental applications for the 2026–2030 TAP program cycle. Please use the form below for supplemental project submissions. This form should be submitted in addition to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation application, expected in June 2025. 

Download Supplemental Application

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Funding Programs