The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is issuing a Call for Projects for its Access to Transit program. The program funds small-scale capital projects that improve access to the regional transit system for pedestrians and bicyclists, including improvements such as sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian signals, bus and rail warming shelters and bike parking at transit stations. A call for projects is held every other year with the current application period beginning today and closing on Friday, August 31. In addition to promoting transit ridership, building better bike and pedestrian infrastructure provides a number of benefits for local communities:

• Neighborhoods that promote public health through active transportation and safer pedestrian environments
• Reduced vehicle congestion and emissions
• Lower demand for commuter parking
• Support for transit-oriented development by fostering active, walkable streets

Detailed information on these projects is available on the RTA data website, RTAMS.org. Applicants must have CTA, Metra or Pace service in their community and be located within the RTA’s six-county service area (Cook, DuPage, Lake, McHenry, Kane, Will).