The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is reminding interested parties that the deadline to apply for its Access to Transit Improvement Program is October 20. The application period opened in April. This program provides capital funding for small-scale projects that increase pedestrian and bicycle access to transit, such as sidewalks, bus shelters, bike racks and pedestrian crossings. The program is intended to leverage RTA and local funds with federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) program funding to help implement recommendations contained in Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning and RTA planning studies. Successful applications to the Access to Transit Improvement Program will be bundled together as one application to the CMAQ program. Last year, the RTA Board of Directors approved just over $1 million in RTA funds to leverage $4.2 million in federal CMAQ program funds for 11 access improvement projects through this program. Applications are due by 3 p.m. on October 20, 2016 and should be emailed to tabberth@RTAChicago.org. For a complete copy of the program requirements and the application guide, visit http://rtachicago.org/plans-programs/grants-projects/access-to-transit.